Places to Eat in Paxos Island

Paxos is an island of peace and tranquillity, and a place that will steal the hearts of those who love their taste buds. But let's start with a small note: As in Greek islands in general, food prices can be a bit high here and sometimes the price may not match the flavor. In this article, you will find tried-and-true and highly recommended addresses, as well as sincere answers to the question of what to eat.

What are the Traditional Flavors in Paxos?

The cuisine of Paxos has a special style that blends Western Roman habits from the Venetian era with Eastern Byzantine spices. So you can find both Italian influences like pasta and herbs, and spicy, aromatic recipes.

Must-taste local dishes

Pastitsada: Spicy, long-cooked rooster meat served with pasta.
Sofrito: Beef dish with vinegar and garlic.
Stifado: Rabbit stew cooked with onions.
Kleftiko: Baked lamb meat.
Spanakopita: Hand-rolled spinach pie and other herb pies.
The seafood is a feast in itself. Fresh squid, octopus, fish of the day. All of it comes to your table from the Ionian Sea.

Mambo: Located on the coastline of Gaios, Mambo is one of those places that “appeals to the stomach, not the eyes”. It serves traditional dishes that are simple but just right. Classics like Stifado and Kleftiko are prepared very well here. Pastitsada and Sofrito are also a must-try. Each meal is followed by a small complimentary dessert, which is the dessert tradition of Greek restaurants.

Genesis and Thalassa: These two tavernas are next to each other at the southern end of Gaios. Both are great, but Genesis is a bit larger and more spacious, so you won't have any problems even without a reservation. It also provides comfort for families with children like a playground.

What to eat in Paxos?

• Freshly caught fish
• Zucchini hash browns with mint pesto sauce
• Anchovy appetizer with chili peppers
• Seafood risotto
• Traditional loukoumades with honey and cinnamon!

Vasilis Although it doesn't get the attention it deserves on Google reviews, Vasilis is a treasure trove for fine-dining lovers. Prices are a bit high, but the presentation, flavor and service are worth it.

Must-try items from the menu:

• Octopus with fava puree
• Greek ceviche
• Seafood orzo or pasta
• Colorful salads and seasonal chef's special recipes

Paxos Breakfast, Brunch and Snacks

Greek breakfast varies depending on the region, but in general it can be a mix of sweet and savory.

• Spanakopita (spinach pie)
• Koulouri (sesame bagels)
• Yogurt, honey and walnuts
• Fresh fruits and lots of coffee

Loukas' Bakery: Run by the same family for generations, Loukas Bakery is one of the most popular bakeries in Paxos. Their hand rolled pies are special: Delicious fillings between two layers of thick, soft filo dough. The most popular is the spanakopita, but the pumpkin-cheese version is a must-try. There are also breads, cookies and bagels. Perfect for breakfast, a beach snack or a beach bag!

Capriccio: The Italian influence in the Ionian Islands is most evident in Capriccio's ice cream. It is so delicious that some days you come here from the other side of the island just for the ice cream. With waffles, pancakes, juice and coffee options, this place is a sweet stopover after breakfast.

Averto: With a beautiful terrace and natural shade, Averto attracts attention with its modern decoration and brunch menu. Poached eggs, herb omelettes, red pepper pesto sandwiches, fresh juices and great coffees are the highlights of the menu. Desserts are not forgotten either: cheesecake, pancakes and granola with yogurt appeal to both the eyes and the stomach.

Traditional Kafeneio and Mezedopoleio: There are some places that still cook in the same pans as 30 years ago. This small traditional restaurant is one of them. A shady patio overlooking the sea, old-fashioned coffee cups, a huge omelette and a traditional “spoonful of dessert” (fruit jam with sherbet)... Everything here is slow, pleasant and intimate.

Eating in Paxos is not just about filling your belly, it's about experiencing a culture. Sometimes with seafood in a shabby tavern, sometimes with fava while sitting on an elegant terrace, sometimes with a bagel from a village bakery... Every bite makes you feel the rhythm of the island. Slow down, savor it.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Paxos Island Hotels page.