When you stay in the town of Parikia on the island of Paros, you’ll find a vibrant dining scene that blends traditional Greek flavors with modern creativity. Whether you’ve just arrived by ferry, are enjoying a day of sightseeing, or winding down after beach time, here’s your guide to where to eat in Parikia — top picks, local tips, what to order, and how to choose the right place for you.
Why Parikia Is Great for Dining
As Paros’s main town and port, Parikia offers convenience and variety. Many restaurants sit right on the waterfront, steps from the ferry, while others hide away in quiet alleys with charming courtyards. The dining scene covers everything from simple tavernas to upscale fine dining, meaning you’ll find a meal for every budget and mood.
Top Restaurants in Parikia
1. Stou Fred
Located near the old town, this restaurant is highly regarded for its refined Mediterranean-fusion cuisine and romantic garden ambiance. Santorini Dave
Style: Upscale, tasting-menu focus.
What to try: Seasonal set menu, premium local wine pairings.
Best for: Special occasions or couples looking for something high end.
2. Cuore Rosso
Tucked into the pedestrian streets of Parikia, Cuore Rosso serves authentic Italian-style pizzas and pastas with great vegetarian and vegan options. Explore Naxos & Paros+1
Style: Casual Italian-table with Greek touches.
What to try: Handmade pizza, gnocchi, gluten-free crust available.
Best for: Families, groups, or anyone craving Italy in the Cyclades.
3. Aroma Traditional Taverna
A short walk from the port and behind the beach at Livadia, this taverna offers classic Greek cooking — fresh fish, meze plates, local cheese, and friendly service. Explore Naxos & Paros
Style: Traditional Greek comfort food.
What to try: Moussaka, grilled octopus, local salad with xinomizithra.
Best for: Casual evenings, families, value-conscious diners.
4. To Souvlaki Tou Pepe
When you want something fast, simple, and delicious, this gyro & souvlaki spot is a local favourite. Explore Naxos & Paros
Style: Street-food style, affordable.
What to try: Pork or chicken souvlaki wrap, fries, Greek salad.
Best for: Quick lunch, post-beach snack, budget travellers.
5. Levantis
A bit more gourmet, Levantis offers creative Greek cuisine in a hidden courtyard setting in Parikia’s old town. Country Life
Style: Modern Greek fine-casual.
What to try: Seafood risotto, fresh local vegetables, Paros wine.
Best for: Foodies, dinner dates, lovers of local produce.
How to Choose: What To Eat & Where
| Food Mood | Restaurant | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Casual & affordable | To Souvlaki Tou Pepe | Fast, local, great value |
| Traditional Greek | Aroma Traditional Taverna | Classic menu, local charm |
| Italian or vegetarian options | Cuore Rosso | Variety + garden dining |
| Upscale dinner | Stou Fred | Tasting menu, romantic setting |
| Creative local cuisine | Levantis | Modern flavours, quality produce |
Local Tips for Dining in Parikia
- 🍴 Reservations: For upscale spots (Stou Fred, Levantis) book ahead, especially during peak season.
- ⏰ Dinner time: Locals start dinner around 21:00 — arriving earlier is fine but may feel quiet.
- 💶 Prices: Street & casual kitchens cost less; fine dining will run higher — check menus if budget-focused.
- 🥗 Vegetarian-friendly: Several places (Cuore Rosso, Levantis) have good veggie/vegan options.
- 🍷 Seafood caution: If you order “catch of the day”, check the price per kilo — it can add up.
- 👗 Dress code: Taverna = smart-casual; upscale dinner = neat attire (no flip-flops in fine dining).
- 🏖️ Before/after the beach: If you’ve just finished beach time at Livadia, both Aroma and casual spots nearby are great. If you’re ending the day with a sunset, many harbour-front restaurants align with views.
What to Order: Parikia Specialties
- Gouna: Sun‐dried and roasted mackerel — a local favourite. Santorini Dave
- Kakavia: Greek fish-soup prepared simply and richly. Santorini Dave
- Xinomizithra cheese: Fresh goat cheese local to Paros, used in salads and desserts.
- Grilled fresh catch: Many tavernas post the weight + price of today’s fish; ask.
- Paros wine: Try labels from local wineries — great pairing with seafood.
Who Parikia Dining Suits
Ideal for:
- Families wanting easy access from the ferry and lots of dining choices.
- First-time travellers who value ease and variety.
- Groups or friends looking for relaxed meals, pizza nights, or mixed-menu options.
- Budget-conscious travellers who still want quality but not ultra-premium prices.
Less ideal for:
- Guests seeking ultra-fine-dining (though Parikia has good options, Naoussa leads).
- Those planning multi-course tasting menus nightly — check menus before committing.
- Late-night party-dinner seekers (Naoussa tends to be livelier after midnight).
FAQ – Where to Eat in Parikia
Do I need reservations?
Yes for popular upscale restaurants, especially in high season. For casual taverna spots you can often walk in.
Are there vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants?
Yes. Cuore Rosso and Levantis have good vegetarian selections, and many tavernas adapt if asked.
Is seafood expensive?
It can be. For “catch of the day”, check the weight and price. Choose smaller portions or shared plates if you’re on a budget.
What’s the vibe after dark?
With the port and waterfront cafés, Parikia stays lively until around midnight or later. For a real late-night bar scene you’ll find more in Naoussa.
Are restaurants waterfront?
Many are, especially along the promenade — ideal for sunset dining. But also explore the alleys for hidden gems.
Can I find quick eats?
Yes — To Souvlaki Tou Pepe and similar spots serve quick, inexpensive food.
Parikia offers a dining scene as inviting as the view from the waterfront promenade. From casual souvlaki stops and family-friendly tavernas to romantic garden restaurants and modern Greek cuisine, you’ll find a place that suits your mood.
Whether you walk off the ferry and want lunch in 10 minutes or you’ve booked a special-occasion dinner with sunset views, knowing where to eat in Parikia ensures you’ll enjoy the flavours of Paros just as much as the scenery.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.