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Mesaria › Mesaria › Kritikos Taverna
Kritikos TavernaC+Worth Trying
Μεσαριά 847 00, Greece
· Greek restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1931 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Large-portion Greek taverna with low prices and fast, friendly service for many, but notable cleanliness and staff-attitude complaints mean experiences vary.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Kritikos Taverna delivers honest, hearty Greek grilling at strong value, but inconsistent execution and recurring cleanliness concerns prevent a higher grade. Food quality shows promise with praised grilled meats and generous portions, yet dry meat reports and hygiene variability create unpredictability. Best suited for casual diners seeking affordable portions over refined dining; worth a stop if nearby, but not a destination choice.
Restaurant Summary
Set inland in Mesaria, Kritikos Taverna feels like a no-frills local hangout where meats hit the grill and plates land fast. Reviewers describe "big platters that feed a crowd" and service that ranges from warm and welcoming to brusque on off-days. Some diners flag cleanliness variability, so expectations matter. The cooking leans classic Greek and Cretan—think hearty grills and simple salads—aimed at appetite over artistry. Portions are large, prices modest for Santorini, and regulars share plates of pork, lamb, and veal with cooling tzatziki. When the fires are on song, it is a satisfying value-forward feast; when not, meats can dry out and sides feel basic. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like fries, chicken, and plain salads. There is no kids menu, but sharing works well. If your crew is picky about textures or spice-free options, stick to simpler grills and avoid rarer cuts; expect casual service and basic seating.
At a Glance
- XL portions at modest prices for Santorini
- Traditional Greek grill with crowd-pleasing staples
- Cleanliness and insect complaints recur in some reviews
- Staff attitude can be brusque; table allocation disputes
- Quality varies by cut and timing; some meats reported dry
What Sets It Apart
- XL meat portions at modest prices
- Traditional Cretan-leaning grill focus
- Away from tourist-heavy caldera
What People Love
- Feeling of a real local taverna
- Huge, shareable meat platters
- Quick service when busy
- Occasional complimentary dessert treats
Points of Concern
- Repeated mentions of flies and occasional pests over several years, though not universal
- Reports of rude interactions with an older server; not consistent across all visits
- Some meats arrive pre-cooked or dry; order carefully and request doneness
- Review patterns show signs of variability rather than manipulation; experiences differ by day and cut
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€24-36 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Share one grilled main per 2 people plus salads to manage portion size and cost
- Choose mid-priced cuts (€14-18) for best value-to-portion ratio
- Add a meze like saganaki or tzatziki for variety without overspending
Perfect For
- Post-hike refuel near Fira-Mesaria
- Casual group meat feast
- Budget-conscious travelers avoiding caldera prices
- Families sharing simple grills
Location Insights
Area: Local village setting inland on Santorini; casual, everyday dining away from caldera crowds.
Safety: Generally safe village area with regular foot and vehicle traffic; some mixed maintenance noted in reviews.
Nearby: Near Mesaria crossroads with shops and services; convenient for locals and travelers passing between Fira and airport.
MesariaMesaria is a traditional village located inland on Santorini, known for its authentic Greek atmosphere and local tavernas. It offers a quieter alternative to the busy coastal towns, attracting visitors seeking genuine local cuisine and a more relaxed dining experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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