Dining under the stars in Greece has quickly become a favorite tradition.
Family-owned taverns lit with the most romantic settings and featuring festive ambiance seem to be commonplace in an island like Naxos. And To Elliniko Restaurant is as quintessential as one can get.
Arriving at dusk, the environment in this Greek Tavern evoked warm hues of pink and tangerine. As the sun was setting, I couldn’t help but notice the perfection of the simple surroundings.
There was a slight breeze that felt refreshing. This is truly an amorous environment – dining under the clear skies. What a lovely evening to enjoy in this quaint restaurant.
To Elliniko Restaurant is based on Katerina’s family recipes. I cannot hide my excitement whenever I encounter authentic home-cooked cuisines. To Elliniko Restaurant is tucked away from all the noise of the main tourist area but is still easily accessible in town. The tavern seems to be incredibly popular with locals, which is always a good thing.
Soft, warm white bread, herb butter and olives with Alfa Beer were served first. The herb butter is homemade and is flavorful and creamy. Greek olives are simply just stunning and I’ve been devouring them every chance I get. It is great to lounge here casually. The environment makes it easy for one to relax and melt into a positive, upbeat vibe.
Awe-inspiringly, all of the main dishes came at once, except for the dessert of course. The portions were fabulously large. One of the dishes is an enticing oven-cooked eggplant with olive oil. This was an appetizing and tasteful dish. I enjoyed the rich and savory essences emanating from the simplicity of this home-cooked meal. It reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking somehow!
The second dish is called the Kleftiko. It is served with gratifying carrots, potatoes and onions. The lamb is so wonderfully soft. This well-prepared dish is just so pleasing and hearty. The lamb is exquisite and impressible. The complementing carrots, potatoes and onions are lush and divine to the taste.
The third dish is the famous moussaka. One of the best moussaka’s I’ve tried in Greece, the ground beef and other ingredients used felt of higher quality than the norm. While it is a substantial plate, it tasted gentle and healthful.
The meal concluded with a traditional apple pie. The apples are sweet and the crust are deliciously crumbly and crunchy.
To Elliniko Restaurant is a flourishing place that focuses on exceptional, hearty food – one that you would expect from being a guest in a kind of household where the family shares their heritage and culture through home cooking.
The staff here is so fantastic and friendly. Everyone just wants to make you feel at home. A truly amazing impression and service, To Elliniko Restaurant is a traditional tavern that you must eat at when traveling to Naxos, Greece.
Sponsored by To Elliniko Restaurant | Naxos 843 00, Greece | +30 2285 027050 | All views, posts and opinions shared are my own.