Fine Dining in Santorini: Comparing Selene, Lauda, and Lycabettus
Santorini is famous for its sunsets and cliffside views, but the island has also become a culinary powerhouse. Beyond the postcard-perfect whitewashed houses, you’ll find restaurants where local traditions meet haute cuisine. Three standouts dominate the fine dining scene: Selene, Lauda, and Lycabettus.
Each offers breathtaking views, world-class chefs, and gourmet menus — but in very different styles. If you’re planning a luxury trip to Santorini, here’s how these iconic restaurants compare.
Selene: The Pioneer of Santorini Fine Dining
Location: Fira (moved from Pyrgos in 2021, now set within a historic monastery). Chef: Ettore Botrini (Michelin-starred chef from Corfu).
Atmosphere & SettingSelene is the institution of Santorini fine dining. For over 30 years, it has showcased the island’s terroir and products, transforming rustic ingredients into refined dishes. Its current home — a 13th-century monastery — adds historic gravitas.
Menu & Signature Dishes- Seasonal tasting menus focused on volcanic cuisine.
- Dishes spotlight Santorini’s famous fava, white eggplant, and capers.
- Signature: Octopus with chickpeas, and fava with smoked eel.
One of the most impressive wine programs on the island, with deep selections of Assyrtiko and other Greek varietals. Wine pairings are curated by expert sommeliers.
Best For: Serious foodies who want to experience the culinary heart of Santorini.
Lauda: Romance with a Modern Twist
Location: Oia, within Andronis Boutique Hotel. Chef: Emmanuel Renaut (three Michelin stars, Chef at Flocons de Sel, France).
Atmosphere & SettingLauda is as much about romance as gastronomy. Set on a cliffside terrace overlooking the caldera, it was Oia’s very first restaurant (opened in 1971). Today, it blends history with modern Michelin technique.
Menu & Signature Dishes- Seasonal tasting menus, typically 5–7 courses.
- Combines Santorini ingredients with French fine dining influences.
A refined wine cellar featuring both Greek and French selections. Pairings are crafted to enhance the French-Greek fusion style.
Best For: Honeymooners and couples looking for the ultimate romantic dinner in Santorini.
Lycabettus: Dining on the Edge of the World
Location: Oia, at Andronis Luxury Suites. Chef: Nikos Leivadias.
Atmosphere & SettingFew restaurants in the world rival Lycabettus for setting. Its cliffside terrace juts dramatically over the caldera — just a handful of tables perched “on the edge of the world.” If Santorini has a most Instagrammable restaurant, this is it.
Menu & Signature Dishes- Contemporary Greek fine dining with playful presentations.
- Signature: Aegean sea bass with Santorini capers and black garlic.
- Tasting menus designed for both foodies and romantics.
A strong Greek wine focus, highlighting boutique producers and organic vineyards. Excellent Assyrtiko pairings.
Best For: Travelers who want once-in-a-lifetime dining with a dramatic view.
Price Comparison
- Selene: €150–€200 per person for tasting menu, plus €100+ for wine pairing.
- Lauda: €170–€250 per person depending on menu; premium pricing for cliffside exclusivity.
- Lycabettus: €180–€220 per person, slightly more for cliff-edge private table.
Value Verdict: Selene offers the most serious culinary experience. Lauda and Lycabettus justify higher costs with romance and setting.
Service & Exclusivity
- Selene: Polished, formal, with highly knowledgeable sommeliers.
- Lauda: Attentive, discreet, with a warm romantic touch.
- Lycabettus: Personalized and intimate — only a few tables, making service highly exclusive.
Who Should Dine Where?
- Choose Selene if:
- You’re a gastronomy enthusiast seeking Santorini’s flagship restaurant.
- You value heritage, terroir, and wine pairings.
- You want a romantic fine dining experience in Oia.
- You love French technique blended with Greek flavors.
- You want the most photogenic dining experience in Santorini.
- You value exclusivity and dramatic cliffside dining.
Final Verdict
- Selene: Best for foodies and wine lovers.
- Lauda: Best for couples seeking romance with a Michelin twist.
- Lycabettus: Best for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime dining setting.
If possible, experience at least two: start with Selene for a serious gastronomic evening, then book Lycabettus for the cliffside drama.
Travel Tip
Reservations open months in advance, especially for sunset tables at Lauda and Lycabettus. Book early — ideally when you confirm your hotel stay. Ask your hotel concierge (especially if staying at Andronis properties) for priority booking.
Loading ad. Elena PapadopoulosLuxury travel and gastronomy writer covering Michelin-level dining and five-star experiences across the Mediterranean.
Loading ad. Loading ad. Related articles Santorini Showdown: Canaves Oia vs. Katikies — Which Luxury Hotel Is Worth It?A head-to-head comparison of Canaves Oia and Katikies, two of Santorini’s most iconic luxury hotels. Discover which property offers the best views, suites, dining, and value for your dream Aegean escape.
Aug 24, 2025 • 12 min read #luxury-travel #santorini #greece Michelin-Starred Dining in Paris: The Ultimate Luxury GuideDiscover the finest Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris. From Alain Ducasse to Guy Savoy, explore where to dine, what to order, and how to experience the best of French gastronomy in style.
Aug 14, 2025 • 15 min read #luxury-travel #paris #france Top 10 Things to Do in Santorini Beyond the SunsetsSantorini is famous for its sunsets, but the island offers so much more. From wine tours and sailing trips to archaeological wonders and hidden beaches, here are 10 must-do experiences in Santorini beyond the postcard views.
Aug 25, 2025 • 13 min read #santorini #greece #travel-guide The Best Wine Tours in Napa Valley for Luxury TravelersExplore Napa Valley’s most exclusive wine tours — from private vineyard tastings to luxury chauffeured experiences. Discover the best ways to sip, swirl, and savor California’s premier wine country in style.
Aug 17, 2025 • 15 min read #luxury-travel #wine #napa-valley Stay UpdatedGet the latest blog posts and updates delivered straight to your inbox.
FridfullresaYour trusted guide to smart borrowing and financial solutions. Discover loan options, financial tips, and expert advice for better money management.
Loan Types Financial Advice- Credit Building
- Debt Management
- Financial Planning
- Interest Rates
- Loan Calculators
- Rate Comparison
- Financial Tips
- Lending Guidelines
- Top 7 Best Health Insurance Companies in the USA (2026 Guide)
- The World’s Most Expensive Hotels and What You Get for the Price
- How to Travel Off-Season and Save Up to 60%
Stay updated with our latest posts and insights.
© 2026 Fridfullresa. All rights reserved.