Vegan and Vegetarian Dining Options in Santorini

The island's Mediterranean cuisine, filled with fresh vegetables, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, naturally accommodates plant-based diets. From savory dishes such as fava, a kind of split-pea puree, and the famous tomato keftedes, to sweet delights like baklava, Santorini has great options that are healthy, and full of flavor. Indulge in locally sourced, fresh green salads or hearty mezze plates, delicious dishes that make it an ideal getaway for travelers who crave bold, plant-based meals surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Must-Try Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes

Local delicacies in Santorini

• Fava: A creamy, smooth puree made from yellow split peas, typically served with olive oil, onions, and capers. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s both hearty and nutritious.


Fava Dip
• Skordomakarona: Simple yet incredibly flavorful pasta dish made with olive oil, garlic, and sometimes a touch of chili for extra heat. This Greek-style aglio e olio is a must-try for garlic lovers.
• Melitzanosalata: A smoky, rich eggplant dip blended with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. This delicious spread pairs perfectly with fresh bread or vegetables.
Melitzanosalata (Eggplant Dip)
• Tomatokeftedes: Santorini’s famous tomato fritters, made with fresh local tomatoes, herbs, and a light batter, then fried to crispy perfection. These savory bites are a perfect snack or appetizer.


Ntomatokeftedes (Tomato Fritters)

Popular Greek Dishes You'll Find in Santorini

• Gemista: Stuffed vegetables, typically tomatoes or peppers, filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes pine nuts or raisins. This is a staple in Greek cuisine and a delicious, wholesome meal.


Gemista (Stuffed Vegetables)
• Dolmadakia: Grape leaves stuffed with a rice mixture, often flavored with herbs such as dill and mint. These little parcels are light, fresh, and often served with a squeeze of lemon.
• Briam (Vegetable medley): Greek-style vegetable casserole made with zucchini, potatoes, tomatoes, and other seasonal veggies, baked with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish.
• Skordalia: A garlicky dip made from mashed potatoes, olive oil, vinegar, and sometimes almonds or walnuts. It’s a rich, creamy accompaniment to vegetables or bread.


Skordalia (Garlicky dip)
• Vegan Moussaka: A plant-based twist on the classic Greek moussaka, typically made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, lentils or mushrooms, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a creamy vegan béchamel.
• Gigantes: Large butter beans baked in a flavorful tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and herbs. This hearty dish is both filling and rich in taste.
• Kolokithokeftedes: Zucchini fritters, made with grated zucchini, herbs, and flour, then fried until crispy. These savory bites are a popular snack or appetizer and can be enjoyed with a vegan yogurt dip.


Kolokithokeftedes (Zucchini fritters)
• Horta Vrasta: Boiled wild greens, often served with olive oil and lemon. These nutrient-packed greens are a common feature in Greek cuisine and make for a healthy and refreshing side dish.
• Ladera: A category of Greek dishes made with vegetables cooked in olive oil, often served in a tomato-based sauce. These dishes are fresh, flavorful, and full of Mediterranean goodness.

Sweet delights

• Loukoumades: These golden, crispy dough balls are deep-fried and drizzled with honey or sugar syrup, often sprinkled with cinnamon or crushed nuts. While traditionally made with honey, many places offer a vegan version with maple syrup.


Loukoumades (crispy dough balls)
• Baklava: A classic Mediterranean dessert made from layers of flaky filo dough filled with walnuts and sweetened with a syrup of honey or sugar. Its crunchy texture and rich sweetness make it a favorite among visitors.
• Kataifi: Shredded filo dough wrapped around a filling of walnuts or pistachios, soaked in sugar syrup. The sweet, nutty flavor combined with the delicate, crispy texture makes this dessert a delightful indulgence.
• Rizogalo: A creamy rice pudding typically made with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It's flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, providing a smooth, comforting treat that's perfect for vegans.


Rizogalo (Rice pudding)
• Halva: Made from tahini (sesame paste) and sugar, this dense, sweet dessert is often flavored with nuts or cocoa. It's rich in texture and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, making it a satisfying dessert or snack.

Where to find vegetarian and vegan food in Santorini

 

Metaxi Mas Tavern Exo Gonia

4.7

Exceptional 4.7/5 5532 reviews

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Aktaion Restaurant Firostefani

4.5

Superb 4.5/5 1294 reviews

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Forty One 41 Beach Bar Perivolos

4.6

Superb 4.6/5 1509 reviews

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Karma Restaurant Oia

4.6

Superb 4.6/5 1844 reviews

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