I’ve eaten seafood all over Greece, but nothing beats the experience of sitting in a seaside taverna on a lesser-known island, where the catch of the day was pulled straight from the water just hours ago. The flavours are pure, the recipes are steeped in local tradition, and the setting is unbeatable. If you’re a seafood lover, you don’t need to follow the crowds to Santorini or Mykonos. Instead, head to these three underrated Greek islands, where the fish is fresher, the tavernas are quieter, and the experience is authentically Greek.
3 Islands for Seafood Lovers
1. Syros – The Island of Aegean Delicacies
Syros is the capital of the Cyclades. Of course, it’s known for its elegant neoclassical architecture. But it’s also a haven for seafood lovers. Thanks to its strong fishing culture, the island is home to some of the best fresh fish and seafood meze in the Aegean.
So, what makes Syros special? Well, the island’s cuisine is influenced by both Venetian and Cycladic traditions, giving it a unique mix of flavours. Local fishermen supply the markets daily, meaning that ultra-fresh seafood is the norm here.
Here are some seafood highlights you can find here:
Atherina (Tiny Fried Fish): Lightly battered and crispy, perfect with a squeeze of lemon.
Kakavia (Greek Fisherman’s Soup): A hearty soup made with the freshest catch of the day, olive oil, and vegetables.
Sea Urchin Salad: A local delicacy that’s briny, fresh, and unforgettable.
Where to Eat:
Allou Giallou (Ermoupoli) – A stylish taverna with creative seafood dishes and an amazing seaside view.
Aventura Seaside Taverna – A laid-back spot where the grilled octopus is a must-try.
2. Lesvos – The Island of Ouzo and Sardines
If there’s one island that truly lives and breathes seafood, it’s Lesvos (also called Mytilene). This island is world-famous for its sardines, particularly from Kalloni Bay, which are PDO-protected (Protected Designation of Origin). Pair them with a glass of local ouzo, and you have a meal that tastes like Greece itself.
What makes Lesvos special? Lesvos is Greece’s top producer of ouzo, meaning long, leisurely seafood feasts are a way of life here. Also, the island’s sardines are known as the “silver of the Aegean” due to their exceptional flavour. Lesvos is also famous for Ladotiri yellow cheese (like graviera) and it’s extra virgin olive oil, without a doubt, one of the best quality olive oils in Greece.
Seafood highlights you can find here are:
Kalloni Sardines: Tiny, melt-in-your-mouth sardines, best enjoyed grilled or lightly cured.
Grilled Octopus: A Lesvos classic, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar.
Garidomakaronada (Shrimp Pasta): A rich, flavourful dish made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and juicy local shrimp.
Where to Eat:
Mouragio (Skala Kallonis) – The best place to try the island’s famous sardines.
Ouzeri To Kastro (Mytilene) – A traditional ouzeri serving small plates of seafood with ouzo on the side.
3. Kalymnos – The Island of Sponge Divers and Seafood Feasts
Kalymnos has a deep connection to the sea. Of course, it has a huge fishing culture, but it’s also the historic centre of Greece’s sponge diving industry. This endeavour has given the islanders expert knowledge of the sea, and it shows in their cuisine.
Here’s what makes Kalymnos so special. Kalymnos has some of the best divers and spearfishers in Greece, meaning the seafood here is unbelievably fresh. The island’s cuisine is a mix of Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern influences, thanks to its long maritime history.
Seafood highlights in Kalymnos:
Stuffed Squid: Tender squid stuffed with rice, herbs, and tomato, then grilled to perfection.
Fouskes (Sea Snails): A unique Kalymnian delicacy, served with olive oil and vinegar.
Marinated Mackerel: Lightly cured, bursting with flavour, and perfect with local bread.
Where to Eat:
To Kyma (Pothia) – A waterfront taverna known for its grilled seafood and warm hospitality.
Porta tou Alatiou – A modern take on Kalymnian seafood, with incredible fresh fish dishes.
For Seafood Lovers, These Islands Are a Dream
If you love seafood, these three islands offer something truly special—fresh flavours, authentic tavernas, and the kind of meals that turn into lifelong memories. Whether you’re feasting on Kalloni sardines in Lesvos, trying sea urchin in Syros, or diving into stuffed squid in Kalymnos, you’ll experience Greek seafood at its finest.
Further Reading
3 Islands for Those Seeking Remote & Underrated Escapes
3 Islands for Wine & Spirits Lovers
