Renowned as a hedonistic playground, Mykonos is the stuff of legends – and we’re not talking the mythological variety. Magnum-fuelled beach parties are a very real thing (as are the hangovers). But much like its rival, Ibiza, there’s more to the island than dancing until the sun comes up; the terrific restaurant scene is another reason why the island is so popular. Whether a rosé-lubricated lunch on the waterfront or a tourist-free taverna out of town, these are the places that you’ll want to eat at. Booking ahead essential.
Kiki’s
This tiny taverna sits atop Agios Sostis beach. With just a few tables and a strictly “no reservations” policy, be prepared to queue. Only open for lunch, it’s best to get to the ramshackle hut before midday and join the already snaking line of customers outside Kiki’s. Help yourself to complimentary wine spritzers as you wait. With no electricity, all dishes are grilled: roasted eggplant, chargrilled shrimp and scrumptious Mykonian bites. After you’ve ordered your meal – our choice is the tender octopus in vinegar and fresh tzatziki – dip a torn handful of freshly baked bread into some chilled taramasalata and relish in your table-side view of those still queuing outside.
Spilia Seaside Restaurant
In the cove of Agia Anna Kalafatis beach sits Spilia. Thanks to its 30-year history and a recent makeover, this perpetually popular waterside venue remains a major hit with the jet set and fashion crowd. Serving up Mediterranean-Mykonian dishes, the lobster and sea urchin pasta is revered island-wide. Snag a table right next to the water for views of the sea – and barefooted patrons fresh off the boat.
- Ano Mera
Alemagou
Mykonos meets Mexico at Alemagou. This all-day beach bar and restaurant on Tarsanas beach in Ftelia works equally well as a chilled-out lunch spot as it does a laid-back party venue. To eat, try the octopus with lemon juice and olive oil and enjoy the surrounds of this laid-back lunch during local siesta hours. Post meal, lounge on a shaded daybed and rest up ahead of the live DJ spins which stretch into the early hours.
Nammos
For a piece of unrealistic Greece, Nammos is the spot. Uber-wealthy Athenians, swanky super yachts and €5,000-a-day cabanas await along the edge of a golden stretch of sand in pretty Psarou Bay. Our favourite (audacious) long-lunch spot, this Greek restaurant-cum-nightclub is a great place to while away a long Mykonos summer day and night. Tan, eat, party and repeat your way through August.
Catari
When you’ve had your fill of traditional Mykonion food, head to Catari. In the old port district of Mykonos Town, Catari’s buttercup-yellow furnishings and seductive aromas precede your arrival. Strewn with fairy lights, this idyllic trattoria is every-inch the charmer. What’s more – we’d go as far as to say that it serves the best Neapolitan-style pizzas on the island.
