12 Best Restaurants in Lesvos, The Northern Aegean Islands

This centuries-old landmark on the main thoroughfare between the old and new harbors dates back to Ottoman times, and is perhaps the best place in town to sip ouzo—you'll be sat beneath a vine-shaded terrace at a wizened set of table and chairs with plenty of old-world relics to eye over while you wait. A long list of mouth-watering and excellent value mezedes are on the menu, such as soutzoukakia, octopus in wine sauce, long-cooked chickpeas, baked aubergines, and homemade sausages, plus traditional desserts including halva.

Totem poles, colored coconut lamps, and other knickknacks make this beach bar endearing in its evocation of the South Pacific, as if the setting weren't transporting enough. The owner and his wife serve omelets, fruits, yogurt, and sweet Greek coffee for breakfast, and simple dishes like pizzas, veggie spring rolls, sandwiches, and cheese platters the rest of the day. The music might be characterized as sophisticated lounge; the owner calls it "intellectual."

This harborside favorite serves seafood that's grilled to perfection including the island's famous sardines, all caught locally. It's best to enjoy the fresh fish and seafood, garden-grown vegetables, and tantalizing homemade dips as small mezedes to be shared—six are recommended for two. Owners Melinda and Theo (wonderful resources for visitors) also rent upscale houses a short walk away. Grab a seat early, as the Table gets busy quickly.

This friendly spot in the hill village of Kagiani, next to Varia and just south of Mytilene, has wonderful views of Mytilene town, the Aegean, and Asia Minor beyond. Grilled octopus, fried crispy fish, and other meat favorites are served in traditional Lesvos style as small plates to accompany ouzo. It's best to reserve in the busy summer months, when locals and returning visitors crowd in to enjoy the evening breeze and twinkling lights.

Gaze over the island and harbor from the large, wide veranda of this yellow-and-green-dressed charmer, or sit inside and watch the cooks chop and grind in the open kitchen. The beef fillet is tender, the lamb chops nicely spiced, and the salads enormous and fresh.

This is also a lovely spot to enjoy a morning or afternoon coffee.

An ever-popular ouzeri and grill on shady Thassou Street in the Old Town is an almost mandatory stop while shopping along adjoining Ermou Street. Fresh grilled baby calamari and lightly fried courgette flowers stuffed with cheese are among many enticing bites that accompany the generous selection of ouzo. Some evenings local musicians come and play rembetiko (Greek folk music), which makes the ouzo taste even better.

The enormous anchor and octopi drying on a line outside are signs that you're in for some seriously good seafood. Tables set on a wooden deck are just a skipping-stone's throw from the break of the waves. Owner Sarandos Tzinieris serves, and his mother cooks. Fresh grilled squid is mellifluous, and the fish are carefully chosen every morning.

Up the hill toward the top of the village you will find this popular gathering spot with tables straddling a bridge that crosses the main thoroughfare. The menu consists of local favorites and most of the delicious produce is homegrown. You can't go wrong with a simple Greek salad and a plate of locally made touloumotiri (a cheese left to mature in a goat's skin).