Escape the winter chill for the warmer weather of Mykonos with George Calombaris' list of the best places to eat, drink and stay on the Greek island.
The two most common questions I get asked are, “Do you eat the food hot on MasterChef?” and “We’re travelling to Mykonos, where is good to eat?”.
The answers are “Yes” and “Here you are”:
My top tip for Mykonos is don’t blow yourself up and go too hard too soon. Take it easy and remember, the Greeks invented the marathon. Slow and steady wins the race!
I have separated my to-do list into categories as there’s so much goodness to experience on the island. Mykonos can be anything you want it to be. It can be relaxing, it can be a party and it can be great for families. Warning: it is an expensive island. Mykonos in many ways has its own currency compared to the rest of Greece, so research and prepare well.
Also, it’s a windy island! I recommend avoiding a scooter. They’re super dangerous in high winds and there are plenty of taxis and public transport available. Be safe and enjoy.
How to get there
Full disclosure, I’m an ambassador for Qatar Airways. They fly directly to Mykonos from Doha, which takes away the extra hours stopping over in Athens. I hear the food on board is pretty good, too..(haha)!
Breakfast
Bowl in Ornos is awesome. Owned by Aussies, the coffee is amazing and you can order Vegemite.
Liberty for great brekkie and awesome views.
Mykonos Bakery in Ornos for Greek breakfast pastries.
Lunch
Jackie O’ for some of the best modern Greek food in Mykonos, plus the drag show starts in the early evening and is a sight to behold.
Kiki’s in Agios Sostis
Nammos for crab salad and people watching
Scorpios for great food and awesome parties
Allemagou for great tavern style seafood lunch set on a very cool beach
Dinner
Cavo Tagoo for cool, modern Japanese
Sea Satin for fresh seafood and awesome loukoumades
Lefteris in Ornos for a delightful souva
Spilia for incredible sea urchin
Buddha Bar at Hotel Santa Marina
Avli Tou Thodori for traditional Greek
Ling Ling for a dumpling fix
Bars
Queen is old school and fun
Caprice Bar for its stunning sunset
Where to stay
My great friends Tasos and Nikolas run the amazing Belvedere Hotel, home to one of the best Nobu restaurants. It’s close to town and has the BEST swimming pool. You will want to stay forever.
Bill and Coo Coast Suites in Agios Ioannis is just wonderful. The design is truly Mykonian and the service is world class.
Beaches
There are so many amazing beaches in Mykonos, my favourite is Ornos Beach. It’s super kid-friendly.
Nammos is where the cool cats hang out. Be sure to arrive early to snaffle a lounge chair and remember to bring a wallet full of €!
Super Paradise would have to be the best beach. The water is incredible and protected from the wind. Bonus, it’s walking distance to Jackie O’ for lunch.
See here to discover more hot travel tips from our travel editor-at-large George Calombaris.
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