Famed for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, and sunset-drenched vistas, Santorini also offers a culinary scene that matches its beauty. Though small in size, the island boasts a refined dining culture, with Michelin-starred chefs and restaurants that elevate local flavors into unforgettable gastronomic experiences. Here are some of the best Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized destinations to discover on this iconic Greek island:
Selene, Pyrgos
A pioneer of fine dining in Santorini, Selene is located in the charming village of Pyrgos and helmed by Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini. While the restaurant itself has not been awarded a Michelin star, its culinary pedigree and recognition by the Michelin Guide make it a must-visit. Selene masterfully reinterprets traditional Cycladic cuisine, using local produce and ancient techniques to create elegant, modern plates in a beautifully restored 19th-century building.
Lauda Restaurant, Oia
Perched on the cliffs of Oia with breathtaking views over the caldera, Lauda Restaurant offers a fine dining experience that blends Santorini’s rich culinary heritage with contemporary finesse. Led by Michelin-starred guest chefs throughout the season, Lauda focuses on high-end, seasonal tasting menus featuring fresh seafood, volcanic-grown vegetables, and award-winning Greek wines, making it a standout for romantic and refined dining.
Koukoumavlos, Fira
Located in Fira with an elevated view over the caldera, Koukoumavlos is known for its avant-garde Greek cuisine. Though not Michelin-starred, it has earned a reputation that rivals starred establishments, thanks to its creative menu and impeccable service. Expect imaginative pairings such as lobster with saffron yogurt or quail with spiced fruit, all served in an atmospheric setting that reflects the island’s charm and sophistication.
OCN (Oyster & Caviar Night), Kamari
A newer entry into Santorini’s fine dining scene, OCN is helmed by Michelin-starred chefs on rotating residencies and offers a luxurious tasting menu centered around oysters, caviar, and other premium seafood. Located in the cosmopolitan village of Kamari, the restaurant brings a bold, international flair to the island while honoring local ingredients and traditional Greek flavors.
Vezené Santorini, Imerovigli
A satellite of the acclaimed Athenian bistro by chef Ari Vezené, this cliffside venue combines a Michelin-worthy approach to ingredient-driven cuisine with panoramic sunset views. Specializing in Greek-inspired, wood-fired cooking, Vezené Santorini offers a high-end yet unpretentious experience with dishes that highlight fresh seafood, artisanal meats, and biodynamic produce from nearby islands.
From traditional Greek flavors reimagined through a fine dining lens to global culinary techniques applied to local ingredients, Santorini’s top restaurants offer more than just a meal—they deliver immersive, sensory journeys set against one of the most spectacular backdrops in the world.
