2 Jul 2025

A Culinary Journey in Santorini: An Unforgettable Evening at Kaliya

During our recent visit to Santorini, we had the pleasure of dining at Kaliya—a restaurant that effortlessly marries breathtaking scenery with inspired cuisine.

Perched with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s iconic Caldera, Kaliya is a feast for the senses before you even take your first bite. The restaurant’s design blends bohemian charm with refined elegance, featuring bougainvillaea-draped terraces that evoke romance and intimacy.

Whether seated indoors or out, the setting is picture-perfect, especially at sunset, when the sky glows with soft, rosy hues and the island’s legendary golden hour unfolds right before your eyes.

Kaliya’s menu puts a fresh modern twist on classic Greek cuisine, with a strong emphasis on wellness, sustainability, and locally sourced ingredients. Our dining experience was curated by the team, allowing us to sample a series of standout dishes.

We began with a glass of Vassaltis Gramina—a remarkable white from Santorini’s own Vassaltis Vineyards. Smooth and crisp, it showcased the island’s volcanic soil perfectly and hinted at what was next.

The first course featured homemade sourdough bread, baba ghanoush, and a fresh salad. True to Greek culinary philosophy, the dishes were simple yet elevated, allowing the high-quality ingredients to speak for themselves without unnecessary embellishment.

Highlights from the Kitchen

The ceviche was, for me, the standout dish of the evening. Super-fresh sea bream, thinly sliced and delicately marinated, was served alongside a subtle coconut sorbet that added a refreshing contrast to the citrusy acidity. It was bright, clean, and beautifully balanced.

My husband’s favourite was the Wagyu Tataki—elegantly plated, lightly seared slices of Wagyu beef laid over warm, slightly vinegared sushi rice. The beef practically melted in the mouth, with a subtle umami that lingered beautifully.

Every additional dish we sampled was a testament to culinary excellence—delicious and impeccably prepared.

To conclude, we sipped on a perfectly crafted Negroni and indulged in two standout desserts: a delicate Pistachio Baklava and a decadent chocolate creation that ended the evening on a high note.

A heartfelt thank you to Michalis and the entire team at Kaliya. The service was nothing short of exceptional—warm, attentive, and deeply knowledgeable. Their genuine passion for hospitality and cuisine shone through every course.

From the awe-inspiring views and stylish ambience to the exquisite food and flawless  service, Kaliya delivered a dining experience that truly captures the spirit and elegance of Santorini. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply indulging in a memorable night out, Kaliya is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary journey on the island.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Jana Stoman

To book your dining experience at Kaliya, visit: www.kaliya-restaurant.com