Santorini, Greece is essentially what remains following a volcanic eruption. Unfortunately, its earliest settlements were destroyed by a volcano 3,600 years ago.

Today, Santorini is a growing tourist area that makes for a wonderful summer vacation. From the food to the beaches and landscapes, there is much to do and see here. This growth in tourism is directly due to a boost in both population and economy. It is estimated that 2 million tourists visit Santorini each year.

Major settlements here include Fira, Emporio, Oia, Perissa, Kamari, Imerovigli, Therasia, and finally, Pyrgos. The island of Santorini benefits most from the tourism industry. Additionally, it has been named the top island in the world to visit. Santorini is a unique area in that it does not get much rain from Spring to Autumn. Therefore, the local fauna and flora depend heavily on early morning fog and dew.

Thanks to the volcanic eruption, their soil is ideal for growing a variety of produce. This makes for some good eating both for residents and tourists. They especially grow some world-class tomatoes unlike any you will try other places.

Santorini is located in the Aegean Sea and is located still on an active volcano. However, the volcano only erupts once every 20,000 years—so you have nothing to worry about should you decide to plan a visit.

As a direct result of the volcano, an enormous part of the island was carved out. This caused what is known as todays Caldera. It is approximately 400 m below sea level and provides some breathtaking beaches. Again, thanks to the volcano, many of the beaches here feature amazing rock formations and different colored rocks or volcanic sand. It is truly a unique experience.

Discovering your palate in Santorini, Greece

As I mentioned earlier, there are many amazing places to visit should you be on the search for a truly incredible culinary experience. And while you might be expecting a lot of seafood – and you would be right in assuming so – there are many treats in Santorini. Even dishes found in other parts of the world are found here as well; even Chinese!

Metaxy Mas Tavern

Metaxy Mas Tavern features a vast variety of original dishes. The best part is they cater to those looking for Greek, Mediterranean, or vegetarian fare – so no one is left out. Beyond the food, Metaxy Mas has a whole lot to offer tourists in the scenic arena. The restaurant itself is quite beautiful and boasts a house porch for those who enjoy dining outdoors. Overall, it is an extremely hospitable and warm and welcoming place.

Stuffed full of the treasures of the Aegean Sea, Metaxy Mas possesses aromas and flavors you cannot miss. Some of their more popular dishes include fava and white eggplant, a fillet in a Vinsanto sauce, and finally, pork chops in an orange sauce with baked potatoes. When you visit Metaxy Mas you are guaranteed a good time and a full belly.

Melitini Greek Tapas Restaurant

Melitini Greek Tapas Restaurant is one of the top-rated eateries in all of Santorini – and for good reason. With tapas, vegan, vegetarian, and other options, this restaurant welcomes all no matter what the diet. There is something here for everyone.

Located in the Greek, beautiful village known as Oia, this restaurant was opened by Pantelis and his childhood friend Takis. Together they began their culinary journey after leaving their homes in Athens and moving to Santorini.

They decided upon arrival that they would open the first traditional tapas eatery, serving only Greek native food products. From traditional Greek cuisine to comfy, local products and cured delicacies, the only hard time you will face is deciding on what to eat. They even have a rooftop terrace that allows visitors to look out over the volcano and caldera sea while enjoying the local cuisine.

PitaGyros Traditional Grill House

It is hard to picture Greek cuisine without seeing the infamous gyro. Again, this restaurant has vegetarian and vegan fare as well as a plethora of meats. Located just in Oia, Santorini, this is one of the best spots in all of Greece to catch a delicious gyro. Also, you are able to view the lovely beaches and caldera due to the picturesque location.

Pay PitaGyros a visit and pick from your choice of meats roasted on charcoal, pita gyros, kebab, souvlaki, and even handmade sausages that will blow your mind. You can even order entire platters with a mix of grilled goods, kebabs, sausages, and pita. This homemade pita will also blow your mind. You can even get a mixed grill platter full of vegetarian goods! No matter what your diet, there is something here for just about everybody. It is so good in fact, that even if you are not planning a visit to Oia, you now have a tasty reason to.