This summer, Chic Icon had the pleasure of visiting the spectacular island of Santorini — a place where world-class gastronomy meets breathtaking natural beauty at every turn. From romantic cliffside terraces overlooking the caldera to hidden seaside tavernas and chic beach clubs on golden sands, we set out to discover the very best tables this jewel of the Cyclades has to offer. With every stop, we tasted exceptional menus crafted by visionary chefs, soaked in unforgettable views, and experienced the warm hospitality that makes Santorini truly unique. Below, discover our handpicked reviews of the best restaurants in Santorini — each one a delicious reason to fall in love with the island all over again.
Our culinary journey took us from Lauda Santorini, the island’s very first restaurant, still setting the standard for refined Greek dining with its legendary caldera views, to the iconic Sunset by Paraskevas, where sun-dried octopus and fresh lobster have earned loyal fans among celebrities and locals alike. We stretched out in style at Frati, Santorini’s chic beach club, where Italian classics and Greek specialties meet crystal-clear waters and laid-back beats. And we couldn’t miss Roka by Zuma, the celebrated pop-up at Cavo Tagoo, serving some of the best modern Japanese cuisine with an unbeatable poolside view.
Lauda Santorini
Dining at Lauda Santorini, part of the Andronis Boutique Hotel in Oia, is a true taste of Santorini’s culinary heritage paired with its most breathtaking setting. Opened back in 1971, Lauda Santorini holds the distinction of being the very first restaurant on the island — a place where locals once gathered when Oia was still a quiet fishing village. Today, it remains an intimate address that combines history with what is easily one of the best caldera and sunset views in Santorini.
The kitchen is helmed by Head Chef George Dospras, together with the culinary vision of Emmanuel Renaut, a celebrated French chef holding three Michelin stars. Their eight-course gourmet tasting menu is a masterclass in refined Greek flavors and modern technique. Highlights include tender smoked octopus, celeriac risotto with a touch of saffron, and succulent lobster wrapped in carrot with a fragrant herb bisque — each plate precise, balanced, and rooted in local produce.
The sommelier’s wine pairings draw from Santorini’s volcanic terroir and Greece’s unique varietals, complementing each dish beautifully. Service is attentive and perfectly paced, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sweeping views of whitewashed houses tumbling down the cliffs and the endless blue Aegean below. Lauda is timeless Santorini — elegant, historic, and unforgettable.
Address: Andronis Boutique Hotel, Oia, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 186696
Website, Instagram
“Sunset by Paraskevas” Tavern
Tucked into the tiny, postcard-perfect Ammoudi Bay beneath Oia’s cliffs, Sunset by Paraskevas has earned its reputation as Santorini’s best seafood restaurant — and rightly so. Established decades ago by Paraskevas Birigos, this family-run taverna has grown from a humble fisherman’s kitchen into an island institution beloved by celebrities, locals, and travelers who come for authentic seafood and unforgettable sunset dinners.
Paraskevas himself, still at the helm with his family, keeps the tradition alive with a daily catch that goes straight from the Aegean to your plate. The restaurant is famed for its sun-dried octopus, gently grilled to smoky perfection, as well as its fresh lobster — a highlight in the famous lobster pasta that has become a signature dish. The fish is always wild and expertly prepared, letting the pure flavors shine.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere is pure Santorini magic. Tables sit right at the water’s edge, with Ammoudi’s colorful boats bobbing nearby and one of the island’s most breathtaking sunset views unfolding before you. As the sun dips behind the caldera, the sky ignites in shades of gold and rose — a perfect match to the simple, honest flavors on the plate. Sunset by Paraskevas is truly a Greek seafood classic.
Address: Ammoudi Bay, Oía, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 071614
Website, Instagram
Frati Santorini
Frati Santorini has quickly established itself as one of the island’s top beach clubs — a stylish sanctuary where golden sand, crystal-clear Aegean waters, and laid-back luxury meet. Nestled on the beautiful stretch of Perivolos Beach, Frati impresses with its pristine shoreline and some of the most comfortable beach beds you’ll find anywhere in Santorini. It’s the perfect spot to unwind under the sun, with attentive service and a chic, effortless vibe that attracts both locals and international visitors looking for a refined beach experience.
Frati’s menu stands out as much as its setting. The culinary focus leans strongly Italian — expect wood-fired pizzas with crisp, airy crusts, freshly made pastas, and a full array of classic Italian dishes that would feel at home on the Amalfi Coast. Their desserts are equally tempting, with rich tiramisu, artisanal gelato, and indulgent cakes that round out a meal in true Italian fashion.
Yet for guests who want a taste of Greece, Frati also offers an excellent selection of local dishes highlighting fresh island produce and seafood. Add in a premium shisha menu and daily DJ sets spinning elegant lounge beats, and Frati becomes more than just a beach club — it’s a complete seaside escape where style, good food, and atmosphere blend effortlessly.
Address: Perivolos beach Cyclades, Santorini, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 081902
Website, Instagram
Roka by Zuma
Roka by Zuma, a seasonal pop-up nestled within the striking Cavo Tagoo Santorini, stands out as one of the island’s most memorable dining destinations. Set high above the caldera, it offers diners spectacular panoramic views — whether you’re relaxing beside the iconic infinity pool at lunch or settling in for an elegant dinner as the sun sets over the Aegean.
This concept brings Zuma’s renowned modern Japanese cuisine to Santorini with relaxed sophistication. The menu features an artful selection of pristine sashimi, creative sushi rolls, and perfectly grilled dishes from the robata. Think delicately sliced yellowtail with yuzu and chili, tender wagyu skewers, and the signature black cod marinated in miso — each plate reflecting Zuma’s trademark balance of bold flavors and finesse.
During the day, guests can savor fresh sushi and light bites while lounging by the pool, immersed in the breeze and endless sea views. By evening, the atmosphere shifts to an elegant yet lively dinner setting, accompanied by stylish music and expertly crafted cocktails.
As a pop-up, Roka by Zuma feels exclusive yet effortlessly welcoming — a seamless blend of contemporary Japanese dining, world-class hospitality, and some of the most breathtaking views Santorini has to offer.
Address: Cavo Tagoo Santorini, Imerovigli, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 027900
Website, Instagram
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