10 affordable and good restaurants to eat in Paros

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey through the stunning island of Paros? This guide will unveil the best restaurants where you can savor authentic Greek flavors without breaking the bank. From charming seaside tavernas to cozy eateries serving homemade dishes, your dining experience in Paros will be nothing short of delightful.

Planning a getaway to this Egean island? Beyond its breathtaking landscapes adorned with whitewashed buildings and vibrant bougainvilleas, Paros boasts a rich culinary heritage. The local cuisine thrives on the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, particularly from the sea. While fish and seafood take center stage, don't miss out on other traditional Greek recipes that showcase the island's culinary diversity.

The restaurants in Paros have evolved over the years. You’ll find everything from family-run tavernas and street-side souvlaki stalls to trendy beach clubs that serve beautifully presented dishes alongside cocktails. Exploring Paros' gastronomic scene is undoubtedly one of the highlights of your visit. So, let’s dive into some mouthwatering dining options!

* We strive to keep our articles updated, but if you find any of the restaurants mentioned closed or prices differing, please let us know so we can update the information. Thank you! 🙂

1. Bountaraki (Parikia)

Located in Parikia, the capital of Paros, Bountaraki is a simple yet authentic taverna renowned for its fresh, delicious food. The house specialty is moussaka, a must-try, accompanied by various shareable appetizers like zucchini balls and feta baked in pastry with honey and sesame. Their rice dishes also look tempting! This cozy spot has quickly become one of our favorite restaurants in Paros. Expect to spend around 15€ per person.

2. Kafeneio Palia Agora (Naoussa)

In the picturesque village of Naoussa, we highly recommend Kafeneio, a charming taverna where mezze (tapas) reign supreme. Enjoy a selection of meatballs, dolmades (rice wrapped in grape leaves), zucchini fritters, and baked eggplant. Dishes range from 7-9€, making it ideal for sharing multiple plates. Be prepared to wait in line, as they don’t take reservations. Going early or late is your best bet! 😉

3. Taverna Glafkos (Naoussa)

As an alternative in Naoussa, consider the well-known Taverna Glafkos. Right by the sea, this taverna offers breathtaking views and exquisite food, specializing in seafood dishes. We recommend sharing a Greek salad and a couple of seafood plates, like grilled octopus or fried calamari. Don’t miss the saganaki with seafood, a delightful seafood stew with the classic saganaki cheese. While it's slightly pricier, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal for around 25-30€ per person.

4. Chaniotis (Parikia)

When you see locals flocking to a spot, you know it's a winner. Chaniotis is a fantastic takeaway option (with indoor and terrace seating) where you can eat like royalty for under 10€. The menu offers a variety of choices, from moussaka to rice with mussels, plus vegetarian options and both sweet and savory pastries. The terrace is a gem, located in a main square near the port. Start your day with one of their baked delights and a coffee from a nearby shop for just 2.50€—a perfect morning treat!

5. To Balcony tou Aky (Aliki)

If you're heading to the southern part of the island, don’t miss To Balcony tou Aky. Nestled by the sea, this restaurant combines an informal atmosphere with a romantic touch, especially in the evenings. The extensive menu features classic dishes (like grilled fish and seafood risotto) as well as unique offerings, such as grilled halloumi with orange marmalade. While we didn’t dine here, the rave reviews speak volumes. Make sure to reserve in peak season!

Also, consider getting a Revolut card (with a 10€ promotion), to avoid foreign transaction fees when paying and withdrawing cash abroad.

6. Mouragio (Aliki)

Next door to To Balcony tou Aky is Mouragio (Μουράγιο), which was highly recommended to us. With a similar vibe to its neighbor, it features tables on a dock overlooking the sea. Their menu is focused on fresh seafood. We enjoyed zucchini balls, grilled calamari, and fried fish. Everything was delicious, and with drinks included, we spent about 20€ per person.

7. To Souvlaki Tou Pepe (Parikia)

For a budget-friendly option on those nights when you want something quick and tasty, To Souvlaki Tou Pepe is a go-to in the port area of Parikia. Specializing in souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), it’s one of the most popular spots in town. The prices are unbeatable: around 4€ for a gyro and 2.5€ for skewers. Perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal!

Fun Fact: In Greece, many restaurants and tavernas use the prefix “Το” in their names. “Το” is the neuter definite article in Greek, equivalent to “The” in English.

8. To Thalami (east of the island)

Continuing our list, To Thalami is another gem where you can indulge in affordable and delicious food. Perched on a cliff on the east coast, this spot is known for its fresh fish and well-prepared mezze. We loved the shrimp saganaki and the octopus, though the orzo with seafood didn’t quite hit the mark. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the ingredients are fresh. Mezze are priced around 5-7€, while main dishes range from 10-15€.

9. Impasto (Parikia)

While it may not boast the title of “best pizza ever,” Impasto is a quick and budget-friendly option (with large slices from 3-3.5€) that you can enjoy right by the beach. And, let’s be honest, it’s a surprisingly decent choice for pizza in Greece! 😉

10. Café Symposium (Parikia)

Wrap up your gastronomic tour with a sweet treat at Café Symposium. Here, you can enjoy crepes for breakfast or lunch, all located in a charming square at the heart of the historic center, making it a perfect spot to take a break.

Extra: Vanilla Gelateria (Parikia)

Finish your evening with a scoop from Vanilla, arguably the best gelateria on the island. With two locations in Parikia—one in the center and another near Impasto, by the waterfront—this place offers a variety of flavors that are both natural and artisanal. The pistachio flavor is particularly delicious and a true test of a gelateria's quality.

Map of restaurants in Paros

Here’s a map showing the locations of the recommended restaurants in Paros:

We hope this guide inspires you to explore the fresh seafood and delicious mezze that Paros has to offer. What did you think of our selection of places to eat in Paros? Do you know of any other recommended restaurants that are affordable and serve great food?