You are missing a lot if you don’t try these amazing local products of Santorini. The best thing about Santorini is not the amazing views, romantic landscapes, amazing beaches, or mesmerising sunsets.
For those who know how to enjoy life (aka “foodies“), the one thing that puts Santorini on their map is the amazing local produce. Santorini does not disappoint, and it’s just one more example of the wealth and variety of the amazing local produce of the Greek islands.
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So, here is my suggestion of the most delicious and unique products you MUST try when you are in Santorini:
1. Santorini Cherry Tomatoes
Why you should try them: This is a very unique variety of cherry tomatoes, and it is possibly the most famous local product of Santorini. They have hard skin and really rich and juicy bodies, with unique aromas and earthy flavours, and they grow on the volcanic soils of the island.
Where to find them: During the summer, you can easily find them in every grocery store on the island. You will recognise them immediately from their unique red colour and strange shapes! However, you can also find them in paste or sun-dried form here and in other grocery stores on the island.
The paste and the sun-dried tomatoes will give any dish an amazing tomato-y and earthy flavour. Try it!
2. Santorini Fava Beans
Why you should try them: This is probably the most famous dish of Santorini! It is straightforward and not fancy, like the dish from Ancient Greece.
These peas are only cultivated in Santorini and Anafi, so try them out! Surprisingly enough, archaeological excavations have revealed grains of fava from the ancient site of Akrotiri, on the southern side of Santorini. This shows that this product has been cultivated on the island for about 3,500 years. Fava beans are sown in December and harvested in June.
Where to find them: They can easily be found in every grocery store on the island and are also served in every restaurant/taverna.
3. Tomato-keftedes (tomato-balls)
Why you should try them: Tomatokeftedes (or basically tomato balls…) are deep-fried Santorini cherry tomatoes mixed with herbs, onions, or whatever each family-run restaurant feels like putting in the mix. They’re just yummy!
Where to find them: They can easily be found in every grocery store on the island and are also served in every restaurant/taverna.
4. Fish and Seafood
Why you should try it: Mediterranean Sea. Crystal clear waters. Amazing variations.
Fresh herbs from the island. Need to say more? Please make yourself a favour and try every variation of seafood you can find in any restaurant or small taverna you go.
Most of the time, you could see (and select) the fresh fish you want before it’s cooked. Try the grilled octopus with olive oil and vinegar, seafood pasta, or any type of fish on the grill! You can thank us anytime…
Where to find it: Every small or big island tavern has fresh fish and seafood. Ask for the day’s catch!
5. White Santorini Eggplants
Why you should try them: These look a bit weird, but they are quite rare and so sweet that theywill make you ask for more!
Where to find it: Every small or big island tavern has white eggplants in the summer. Ask for them and also give the “melitzanosalata” a try! It’s a delicious paste made from these eggplants…seriously…you have to try that with fresh bread and local wine! Trust us!
6. Melitinia
You should try them: They are hand-prepared pasty stuffed with local soft cheese called “anthotyro” or “myzithra”. They are only made in Santorini, and they are a delicious dessert!
Where to find them: You can find these in any bakery on the island, and in many cases, they are served as dessert in restaurants. Ask for them and try to pour some honey and cinnamon on top…yummy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is Santorini famous for?
Santorini is most famous for its unique agricultural produce grown in volcanic soil, specifically Santorini cherry tomatoes, yellow fava beans, and rare white eggplants. The most famous local dish is tomatokeftedes (deep-fried tomato fritters).
Why are Santorini tomatoes so special?
Santorini cherry tomatoes are unique because they grow in the island’s arid, volcanic soil without artificial watering. This dry-farming method gives them a thick skin, a very concentrated, sweet flavor, and high nutritional value.
What is Santorini Fava?
Santorini Fava is a traditional dish made from yellow split peas that are unique to the island. Archaeological excavations show these specific peas have been cultivated in Santorini for over 3,500 years. It is typically served mashed with olive oil, lemon, and chopped onions.
Are there local desserts in Santorini?
Yes, the most traditional dessert in Santorini is Melitinia. These are small, hand-prepared sweet pastries stuffed with local soft cheese (anthotyro or myzithra), sugar, and mastic. They are traditionally made around Easter but can be found in local bakeries year-round.
