12 Cheap Eats in Santorini
Can Santorini cater to all budgets?
Yes, indeed it can! Santorini offers a wide variety of dining options, including delicious and quality local food at affordable prices. Here is our comprehensive list of cheap eats in Santorini that have been tried and tested, ensuring both great taste and value for money.
Erotokritos Bakery
Erotokritos Bakery is situated in Karterados village, just behind the village’s bus stop. Open 24 hours a day, it serves freshly baked pies, sandwiches, a wide range of desserts, and beverages like freshly squeezed orange juice or coffee of your choice. Among the recommended options are the spinach or cheese pie, and the baklava from the sweets menu. Additionally, they offer a selection of bread in various sizes, local cookies, healthy bars, and traditional sweets available for takeaway. It’s the ideal spot for a quick lunch or a late-night snack.
Tranquilo
If you’re heading to Perissa beach for the day, Tranquilo should definitely be on your map. This laid-back beach bar offers a fantastic selection of salads, starters, and small dishes to share. For a unique twist, try their pineapple fried rice or one of the XL salads. The portions are generous, and the prices are surprisingly low, making it one of the best cheap eats in Santorini. You can even pair your meal with one of their classic or signature cocktails. Whether it’s day or night, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy delicious food.
Lucky’s Souvlaki
No trip to Greece is complete without enjoying a traditional “pita-gyro.” Lucky’s Souvlaki is a local institution, famous for its delicious chicken or pork wraps. For an authentic experience, ask for a “gyro apo ola,” which comes with tzatziki, salad, and French fries—all served in warm, soft pita bread. If you prefer, you can swap out the typical meat slices for souvlaki in your pita. Though the shop is tiny, it’s easy to find—just around the corner from Fira town’s bus station. It’s definitely one of the cheap eats in Santorini you shouldn’t miss.
Falafeland
Looking for a vegetarian option in Fira town? Look no further than Falafeland. A wrap filled with falafel, wrapped in a larger-sized Arabian pita, is a Mediterranean staple and a satisfying meal any time of day. It’s a perfect choice for those on a budget but still craving something flavorful and fulfilling.
Pentozali
If you’re searching for a place where the locals hang out, meet, and eat, head to Pentozali in Messaria village. This cozy kafenio offers comfortable seating under trees with views of the village, and it’s open from late lunch hours until midnight. Here, you can enjoy simple meze-style village food. We highly recommend trying their omelette with graviera cheese, Cretan salad, or one of the meat or legume dishes of the day. To top it off, wash it all down with a glass of local raki. This place is the epitome of local charm and offers an authentic experience of cheap eats in Santorini.
Kira Niki
For those seeking a taste of mama’s cooking, Kira Niki is the place to go. The daily dishes are served with your choice of starters or a salad. Simply walk into the restaurant, and the friendly staff will show you trays of freshly cooked daily dishes, catering to all tastes and dietary restrictions. Don’t leave without trying their famous tomato fritters, which are undoubtedly the best on the island! Located on the main road connecting Karterados with Messaria, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Fagopoti
Hidden away in Karterados village, Fagopoti serves local dishes and typical starters such as fava dip, fried feta with honey, and stuffed peppers and tomatoes. This spot is a favorite among locals, and the Caveland family gathers here a couple of times a week for a Greek sampling dinner. It’s a fun and interactive way to taste traditional Santorini cuisine.
Loizos
If you’re looking for a meal with a sea view, head to Captain’s Loizos at Monolithos beach. Here, you can enjoy typical local dishes, fresh seafood, or a variety of starters and dips, all while overlooking the tranquil sea. Try their grilled sardines, calamari or salads. It’s a great place for a meal with a view!
The Finch
Located in Kamari, The Finch is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch. The menu features easy pasta dishes, shareable plates, amazing cocktails, and a local vibe. This is where locals and tourists mingle, whether for a casual coffee, snack, dinner, or drink.
Akrothiri Café
On your way to the Lighthouses for the sunset or to the Akrotiri excavations, stop by Akrothiri Café. This local café offers a variety of sweet and savory crepes and waffles, along with soft drinks, cocktails, and easy-to-eat dishes such as burgers, risotto, or pasta.
Traditional Kafeneio Megalochori
As you stroll through the winding paths of Megalochori, you’re sure to come across the charming “kafeneio.” Here, you can enjoy typical local dishes and coffee, and sometimes, live music. The inviting atmosphere and delicious food make it a destination in itself, giving you an unforgettable taste of Santorini. Try their spicy cheese dip, meatballs or Greek salad.
Brusco
In Pyrgos village, Brusco is the place where people gather. Situated at the village square, it’s ideal for breakfast (try their Greek breakfast served on a tray made from a window pane—it’s a must!). For lunch, try one of their sandwiches with local fillings. Brusco is also famous for its ouzo, wine, or beer meze, which consists of many small starters, cheese, and cold cuts. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.