Kos is most famous for being the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. It’s also a foodie’s dream come true, especially for those that appreciate traditional Greek island fare. Here is my list of the top 5 best restaurants in Kos!
Also check out our Guide to Classic and Traditional Greek Foods
Casual and inexpensive, Arap Taverna (Platinos, 2 kilometers south of town on the road to the Asklepion) does not disappoint with its homemade cooking. Arap is a family-owned taverna that specializes in Greek-Turkish fusion cuisine, which is unique to the island of Kos and represents the cultural heritage of the Platinos neighborhood.
Grab a seat under the covered veranda and order up some Greek and Turkish mezedes or get right to business and ask for the daily specials. With a diverse menu, both meat lovers and vegetarians will have plenty to choose from. You can’t miss it if you are heading to the Asklepion from Kos Town. Arap is great for families with kids. We recommend coming for lunch then heading across the street for some homemade ice cream. Cash only.
Recommendations: Stuffed roasted peppers, kebab, and mixed grill.
For a gourmet meal, head to Cuvee Restaurant (Lambi Beach) and treat yourself to a delicious menu of fusion dishes prepared by award-winning Greek Chef Stamatis Marmarinos. Situated in the lobby of the ultra lux 5-star Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel and Spa, Cuvee Restaurant is one of the island’s best dining venues, known for both its chic décor and exquisite food.
We recommend indulging in the Chef’s Tasting Menu – five courses of pure delight topped off with a decadent dessert. Pair your meal with a bottle of local wine, then head out to the pool area for an after-dinner cocktail. Reservations are required.
Recommendations: Chef’s tasting menu.
Perched on a hill four kilometers from Kos Town is Lofaki Café and Restaurant (Agios Nektarios). Lofaki is best known for its incredible vistas of Kos Old Town and traditional Greek fare. Its lush surroundings also make it a popular wedding and party venue.
Guests can choose to sit indoors or out in the flower garden overlooking the island. Lofaki’s menu features signature cocktails, grilled meats, and zesty salads. Service is friendly and efficient and the vibe is family friendly. Lofaki is a great value for the money and can easily accommodate large groups.
Be sure to come early to catch the stunning sunset.
Recommendations: Platter of warm appetizers, feta cheese drizzled with honey and sesame seeds, pork tenderloin “Lofaki”, and blue cheese burger.
Oromedon Tavern (Zia Village Main Square) is the island’s best Greek taverna. Don’t come expecting dark and dingy; Oromedon is airy, spacious, and comfortable. Owner Nikos and his family demonstrate what Greek hospitality is all about when they come to the beautiful village of Zia. Oromedon overlooks northern Kos and boasts scenic views of the Aegean Sea and the nearby island of Kalymnos.
Watch our episode on Therma Beach in Kos
High quality ingredients and generous portions make dining here an enjoyable and memorable experience. Lamb, pork tenderloin, fresh vegetables, and homemade cheeses are just a few of the restaurant’s specialties. For a true taste of Greece, don’t waste your time with the imitators, head straight here. But don’t just take our word for it; Oromedon Tavern is the proud recipient of several culinary awards including the Europe Tourism Award (2005) and Best Greek Cuisine Award (2010).
A prestigious Aegean Cuisine Plaque (2011) is also on display. Reserve in advance for a sunset dinner.
Recommendations: Stuffed grape leaves, garden salad with feta cheese, shrimp saganaki, oven roasted lamb, and baklava dessert.
To Spitaki (Georgiou Papandreou, 9) brings a little bit of South Beach to Kos with its lounge seating and selection of local seafood and pastas. A sailboat themed interior and a swanky outdoor deck add to To Spitaki’s chic naval theme.
To Spitaki is located beachside near the New Kos Town Marina, just a short walk from the center of town. The restaurant isn’t just a pretty space; the food is prepared with care and portions are generous. If you are coming for dinner, be sure to reserve a table on the deck so you can see the twinkling lights on the Turkish coast. Beach seating is available during the summer months.
Recommendations: Seafood risotto, steak with shrimp cream sauce, and chocolate soufflé dessert.
Do you have suggestions of best restaurants in Kos? Share your picks in a comment below!
Special thanks to the Aqua Blue Boutique Hotel.
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Sotiria says:
Of course barbouni restaurant!!!!