32 Best Restaurants in The Cyclades, Greece

The oldest family tavern in Naxos, established in 1948, remains true to the Margartis family traditions of cooking authentic Greek dishes with homegrown vegetables and local products. With wonderful views across the harbor to Paros, be sure to check out the historic black-and-white photos inside of Naxos Town as it grew around the taverna over the decades.

The hangout that is such a caldera-side hit in Fira also has a welcoming presence in Pyrgos, where cocktails and light snacks are served on breezy terraces overlooking the village, vineyards, and the sea. This spot is especially popular at sunset, but does a brisk business throughout the day, when the bar brews great coffee.

This shop and bakery is the local go-to for anything traditional and sweet. It's known for Tinian specialties such as almond paste candies called psarakia tinou, and cheesecake bites made with Tinian cheese called gliko tiropitaki tsibiti. You’ll find yourself walking away with little gift boxes filled with your favorites, but before you go try their homemade ice cream.

On a trellised lane by the harbor, this family-run taverna is a Tinos favorite, serving a wide range of Greek traditional and Tinian dishes. Main-course favorites include spicy lamb cooked in paper and calamari stuffed with cheese, tomatoes, and peppers. Starters such as local artichokes in vinegar sauce or hot eggplant slices wrapped around cheese, mint, and green pepper, and a light, rich mille feuille dessert might bookend a meal here. The name means "between us," and a friendly air prevails. The decor is traditional—pale stone walls and high stone arches—the staff is welcoming, and a fireplace in winter and summer air-conditioning keep it open year-round.

Tradition counts for everything at this family-run taverna. Like his parents who ran Klarinos before him, Andreas Ragoussis only uses homegrown vegetables and local meat in his dishes. Up the stairs, on the square, it has been here for years and rightly so.

Located in the central market, To Kastri is run by the Women’s Union of Syros, a group of 28 women who cook 10 dishes a day—home cooking so good that local housewives secretly buy food for their midday meals here. Open all year, this cafeteria often sells out by early afternoon.

Abutting the Sanctuary of Poseidon and facing the sea, this multi-level taverna offers traditional Greek taverna fare. Open all day, a stone's throw from the beach, and away from the wind that blights much of Tinos, the art of the grill is key here. Local meats and homegrown vegetables feature and fresh fish is available, depending on the weather.