The Cave of Nikolas Santorini: Hidden Seaside Tavern with Traditional Greek Flavours
If you find yourself in Santorini looking for an authentic, relaxed dining experience with a touch of history and breathtaking views, look no further than The Cave of Nikolas in Akrotiri. Located at the southernmost point of the island, this traditional family-run tavern offers not only delicious food but also a unique, scenic experience that makes it one of the best-kept secrets on the island.
Whether you’re wrapping up a day of exploring or just seeking a peaceful, beautiful place to enjoy the Mediterranean breeze, this seaside gem is definitely worth your time.
Experience: Dining with a View
The Cave of Nikolas is tucked away at the edge of the island, far from the bustling crowds of the more touristy parts of Santorini. After a 15-minute drive from Perissa Beach, we arrived at the restaurant to find ample parking. The 3-minute walk from the parking lot was a pleasant stroll, with the waves crashing softly in the background.
The restaurant’s history adds a layer of uniqueness that you don’t find at many other places. Once a small cave shelter built by Uncle Nikolas, the tavern was transformed into a dining establishment by the passionate couple. Uncle Nikolas used to craft this shelter by hand for himself and his boat, while Aunt Efstathia’s magical cooking quickly caught the attention of the workmen at the archaeological site of Akrotiri. The humble beginnings of the cave turned into a beloved meeting point for island visitors seeking a taste of something truly special.
The ambiance of The Cave of Nikolas is an immersive one. You dine right by the water, with the sea practically lapping against the stone walls of the restaurant. On the evening we visited, we were treated to the soothing sounds of waves and the beautiful sunset view, making for a memorable setting.
The setting was peaceful and rustic, with wooden tables and traditional Greek decor, an embodiment of the island’s charm. The sea breeze and the sounds of the waves made this an unforgettable meal, and we even had a local cat make a guest appearance, adding a playful touch to the experience.
Food: Traditional Greek Flavours
Let’s get to the food, because it’s what truly makes The Cave of Nikolas stand out. Here, the menu is filled with traditional Greek dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, many of them from the garden that the family tends themselves. The recipes have been passed down through generations, with Margarita (the daughter of Uncle Nikolas) continuing the legacy today, having been awarded the Gourmet Prize for Best Traditional Tavern in Santorini (2007-2008).
Here’s what we tried during our visit:
- Mussels (€14) – A classic Greek dish, steamed with lemon and ouzo. The flavours were delicate, and the mussels were perfectly tender. Personally, I found the tangy ouzo flavour a little overpowering and would have preferred a different combination, such as tomato and feta, for a more balanced taste.
- Sardines (€16) – Grilled on coals with garlic and parsley, served with a fresh, crisp salad. These sardines were perfectly charred, bringing out the rich, smoky flavours that complemented the natural taste of the fish. The salad on the side was light and refreshing, making for a simple yet satisfying dish.
- Spaghetti with Lobster (€40) – This was definitely the highlight of the meal. A generous portion of pasta was tossed with a rich tomato sauce made from Santorini’s famous cherry tomatoes, complemented by a whole lobster. The lobster was incredibly fresh and tender, and the combination of flavours was perfect. It was a dish that felt like a luxury without the high-end price tag. In comparison, you’d be paying upwards of €190 for a lobster pasta in more famous areas like Ammoudi Bay, making this one of the best value-for-money dishes on the island.
Along with the mains, we were served complimentary bread. It was the perfect vehicle to soak up the last bits of lobster sauce.
One thing we learned: the portions here are generous! We definitely over-ordered and ended up taking some leftovers home. If you’re visiting with just two people, I’d recommend choosing the lobster spaghetti along with one more dish, which would be just the right amount to leave you full but not stuffed.
Price & Value
Santorini has a reputation for being an expensive destination, especially when it comes to food. However, The Cave of Nikolas offers incredible value compared to other seaside restaurants on the island. The average price per person ranges from €20 to €30, which is reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food, the waterfront setting, and the generous portion sizes.
For example, the lobster spaghetti (€40) is an absolute steal compared to the prices in Ammoudi Bay, where the same dish can cost up to €190. In fact, the generous portion of lobster and the flavourful pasta made it feel like a luxury meal, but without the hefty price tag.
If you’re traveling on a budget but still want a delicious, authentic dining experience with a view, this place offers unbeatable value.
Final Thoughts: A Taste of Santorini’s Heart
As we left The Cave of Nikolas, we couldn’t stop talking about how memorable the meal had been. The combination of rich family history, food, and incredible views made this a dining experience we won’t forget. The family’s passion for the land, the ingredients, and the traditions shone through in every dish, and the love they’ve poured into their restaurant is felt in the entire experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want to enjoy a meal that feels authentic, heartfelt, and connected to the island’s history, The Cave of Nikolas should be added to your list.
The Cave of Nikolas, Santorini Details
- Location: Akrotiri 847 00, Greece
- Opening Hours: Open Mon – Tue and Thu – Sun from 1PM – 11PM (Closed Wednesdays)
- Price: Average ¢20 – ¢30 per person (dependent on what you order)
- Food Highlights: Lobster Spaghetti
- More information:
- Waterfront views of the Aegean Sea, perfect for sunset dining
- You may be visited by friendly local cats
- Ample parking with easy access to the restaurant
- Family run restaurant
- 20 minutes drive from Fira
- 15 minutes drive from Perissa Beach
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