Mykonos is best known for its striking white buildings, vibrant nightlife and the kind of beaches that seem almost too perfect to be real. But beyond all of that, there’s another side to the island—one that lives in its food and its people. If you know where to look, you’ll find small tavernas tucked into quiet corners, serving food that speaks of tradition, family, and the joy of eating well without any fuss.
Kiki’s – Where Time Slows Down
Kiki’s, just above Agios Sostis beach, has become something of a legend, but it still feels like a secret. There’s no phone number, no bookings, and no sign out front—just a gathering of people who know it’s worth the wait. The grill runs without electricity, the tables sit beneath trees, and the sea sparkles below like something out of a postcard.
The food is simple and beautiful. Grilled pork chops, marinated chicken, fresh salads, and the sort of bread that makes you forget you’re trying to eat light. People come here to linger, to eat slowly, to talk. It’s not fast or flashy, and that’s the whole point.
To Maereio – A Little Gem in the Middle of Town
Tucked away in a narrow alley in Mykonos Town, To Maereio is the kind of place that could easily be missed if you’re not paying attention. There are only a handful of tables, and it’s always a good idea to come early. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and unpretentious—dim lights, laughter, clinking glasses, and the hum of conversation.
Run by two brothers, the taverna focuses on local flavours and honest cooking. There’s a comforting mix of stews, grilled meats, and traditional plates that feel like something someone’s grandmother would have made—if she happened to be a fantastic cook with a soft spot for guests.
Niko’s – The Old Favourite by the Water
You’ll find Niko’s Taverna near the old port, and even though it’s been around for decades, it still draws a crowd. Part of that is down to its location—great for people-watching and close to everything—but it’s also just a dependable place to get a really good meal.
The menu has all the familiar Greek dishes you’d expect, from grilled octopus and calamari to moussaka and stuffed tomatoes. The staff are always busy, but they still manage to keep things friendly and welcoming. It’s the kind of place you pop into for a quick bite and end up staying far longer than planned.
Fokos – A Quiet Spot Off the Map
Head to the northern coast and you’ll come across Fokos Beach, quiet and wild, with barely any development around it. Just behind the sand, there’s a stone taverna that feels like it’s always been there. No menu boards, no pushy waiters—just a relaxed spot where the food is as laid-back as the surroundings.
Fresh fish, grilled meats, local cheese, and garden vegetables—it’s food that lets the ingredients speak for themselves. It’s not fancy, and that’s exactly why it’s so good. People often find it by accident and return the next day on purpose.
Dinner at Home – With a Private Chef
For those staying in one of the island’s many villas like those of Mykonos Gold, there’s a quieter kind of luxury on offer. Rather than heading out, some travellers opt to bring the flavours of the island to their own table. A number of experienced private chefs offer personalised dining experiences in-villa, preparing meals rooted in local ingredients and traditional recipes.
There’s something special about sitting on your terrace, watching the chef prepare grilled sea bass or slow-roasted lamb as the sun melts into the sea. The food is tailored to your tastes, the setting is your own, and the pace is entirely yours. It’s a different kind of taverna experience—more personal, but no less Greek.
Limnios – Generous Plates and Familiar Faces
Just above Agios Stefanos beach is Limnios, a family-run taverna that locals swear by. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, and that’s why it works. The portions are generous, the service is relaxed but warm, and the view over the bay is a lovely bonus.
They do the classics well—lamb chops, baked aubergines, fresh salads—and there’s a sense that nothing has changed here in years, in the best possible way. People return again and again not because it’s trendy, but because it feels like home.