The Top Restaurants in Lesbos, Greece
Dazzling white-sand beaches, stone-house villages, olive groves and thickly forested mountains make Lesbos, the birthplace of the writer Sappho, an undeniably beautiful spot for a classic Greek getaway. But it’s also a diverse food and dining hub with seafood and meze platters served by tavernas and ouzeris all over the island. Here are the best restaurants to visit.
1. Vafios Taverna
Restaurant, Greek, Coffee
2. Misirlou
Restaurant, Cocktail Bar, Contemporary
This American-run diner, set above the harbour in Molyvos, offers quirky decor – think cheese grater ceiling lamp – and wonderful views of the castle if you’re lucky enough to grab one of the balcony seats. The international menu includes gourmet burgers (the pulled pork stands out) in homemade buns and pizza topped with fresh local produce. It is also one of the best cocktail bars in the evenings.
3. Soulatso
Restaurant, Authentic
This ouzeri, on the boardwalk in the south coast village Skala Eresou, is a cut above the rest and puts a creative spin on traditional Lesbos dishes. Come early to secure the best spot on the waterfront patio, since it packs out almost every night. The dishes are ideal for sharing and the house salad with dried figs, the tirokafteri (a spicy cheese dip) and the louloudia (stuffed courgette blossoms) are all excellent – along with the catch of the day, of course.
4. Women's Cooperative of Petra
Restaurant, Seafood, Greek, Mediterranean, Vegetarian
5. Kafeneion O Ermis
Restaurant, Greek
6. Cava Doro
Restaurant, Italian, Mediterranean
7. Sarandos
Restaurant, Authentic
This sweet little place, on the main road between Anaxos Beach and Petra, guarantees a warm welcome from friendly owners Babis and Dina. Join a good mix of local families and visitors for superlative takes on Greek classics, particularly the kleftiko (oven-cooked lamb) and the beef stifado (stew). Portions are generous, as are the carafes of local wine.
8. The Octopus
Restaurant, Greek
For more of Lesbos, check out the top attractions on the island.
This is a rewrite of an article originally written by Chrisa Theodoraki.
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