Santorini's dining scene offers a delightful array of Greek and Mediterranean flavors, often highlighting fresh seafood from the Aegean Sea. While the island is known for its romantic, caldera-facing restaurants in areas like Imerovigli, Fira, and Oia, it also provides more relaxed, beach-oriented venues in neighborhoods such as Perissa and Perivolos. For groups, securing a table, especially for dinner at popular spots with sunset views, requires foresight. Many establishments are accustomed to smaller parties, but with advance planning, larger tables can certainly be accommodated, ensuring your group enjoys Santorini's culinary offerings together.
How we picked these
The dining recommendations on this page are a direct result of Anywayr (formerly Travelry)'s aggregated research from real trips planned for Santorini. Our selections prioritize venues and neighborhoods that have been consistently mentioned and highly regarded by past travelers. The "mention count" signal indicates how frequently a particular venue appeared in successful itineraries, ensuring our picks reflect genuine traveler preferences and experiences on the island.
Eat smart as a group
Navigating Santorini's dining scene as a group requires a strategic approach to ensure smooth and enjoyable meals. For tables of six or more, especially during peak season or for dinner at caldera-view restaurants, making reservations well in advance is not just recommended, it is essential. Many popular venues fill up quickly, and spontaneous large group seating can be challenging. When it comes to settling the bill, while splitting is generally possible in Greece, it is always best to confirm with your server at the beginning of the meal. Some restaurants, particularly with larger groups, might prefer a single payment or a more streamlined approach.
Consider your group's daily itinerary when planning meals. Grouping dining experiences by neighborhood can significantly reduce travel time and logistical complexities. Imerovigli, Fira, and Oia are central hubs for many of the island's celebrated restaurants, while Perissa and Perivolos offer excellent beachside dining options. Pacing your meals is also key. Breakfast and lunch can often be more casual affairs, allowing for flexibility with cafes and tavernas. Dinner, however, is typically a more relaxed and extended experience, often coinciding with sunset, making those evening reservations even more critical.
Our picks
Below, you will find Anywayr's curated list of dining venues in Santorini, selected for their quality, group suitability, and popularity among past travelers. These recommendations span various cuisines, price points, and neighborhoods, ensuring there is something to suit every group's preference and occasion.
Booking tips for large tables
When planning to dine out with a large group in Santorini, proactive booking is your best friend. Aim to call ahead at least a few days to a week in advance, particularly if your group is larger than six people or if you are targeting a high-demand restaurant or a specific time slot, such as sunset dinner. Some upscale establishments, especially during the busy summer months, may request a deposit to confirm a large group reservation; always inquire about this policy when booking. Regarding gratuity, while a service charge might occasionally be included for larger parties, it is not always the case. If service is not included and you are pleased with your experience, a tip of 10-15% is a thoughtful way to show appreciation.