Greek food is one of the best reasons to travel here, and Halkidiki does it particularly well: fish that was in the sea that morning, olive oil from the next valley, wine from vineyards you can see from the terrace. The harder part is choosing, because around Ierissos and the foot of Mount Athos there is no shortage of tavernas, hotel restaurants and beach bars.
This is the checklist we would use ourselves. We write it from the kitchen side of a resort, so we mention what we do at Mount Athos Resort where it helps, but the questions apply wherever you end up eating.
Read moreStart with the setting
Almost everywhere here has a view of the sea or the mountains, so look at what sets a place apart. Our Leuko Kochili Tavern sits on a quiet private beach, a few steps from the water. Other places have a pool framed by gardens, or a terrace looking across the bay. Decide whether you want sand under your feet, a long lunch in the shade or a table for sunset.
Opening hours and who can walk in
Some places welcome anyone, others are only for hotel guests. Check the opening hours and whether you need to book, especially in July and August, so a long drive does not end at a closed door.
What is actually on the menu
Nearly every kitchen in the area cooks Greek and Mediterranean food, so the differences are in the detail. Worth asking about:
- fish and seafood bought from local fishermen
- produce, herbs and olive oil from the region
- international dishes, if someone in your group wants something familiar
- vegetarian, vegan and special-diet options
- a menu that changes with the season
- a children's menu
Most good restaurants publish their menus online. All of ours are in the Dine & Wine section of this website.
Where the ingredients come from
A kitchen that buys from nearby farmers, fishermen and producers usually tastes like it. Ask. A confident, specific answer is a good sign.
The wine list
A wine list tells you a lot about a place. A good one puts Greek bottles you have never heard of next to the familiar names, and the staff can explain why. That is as true of a smart restaurant as of a beach bar.
Music and the evening atmosphere
Greek evenings are meant to be lively. Some places have live music or a dance night, which can make the decision for you, so look at the weekly programme before you choose.
The practical details
Before you book, think about how you will get there and back, how the prices compare, what recent guests say online, and how far it is from the beach and from your bed. The last one matters after a long dinner with wine.
At Mount Athos Resort we have tried to put all of this in one place: the sea, good food and a glass of Greek wine, a few steps from your room. Our menus and opening hours are online.