Aegina in the Argosaronic Gulf, is the closest island to Athens a mere 34 km (21mi) away and just over a 1 hour ferry trip from the port of Pireaus. It is a beloved island of Athenians, as it’s proximity is great for a day trip or an easy weekend get away regardless of the season, either to go swimming at one of its beautiful beaches or to walk around its picturesque alleys and pine clad hillsides.
In 1826, the city of Aegina was designated the first capital of the Free Greek State and thrived mainly due to trade, fishing, sponge diving, and limestone quarrying. Through the years, the island has attracted many important personalities, artists, and intellectuals. It has been loved by writers, sculptors and painters who chose it either as a permanent base or as a holiday home, returning time and again as a source of their inspiration.
So whether you’re visiting for the day or spending several days relaxing at this pretty Saronic island, you’ll find the best choice of dishes made with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients as well as a touch of creativity at these popular tavernas.
Ahivadaki: Αt this seafront fish taverna you can sample well-prepared dishes from all over Greece and the Mediterranean. Try the Constantinople cuttlefish, shrimp saganaki, grilled sardines, fried katsoula and red mullet. (Vrohia beach, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297 024001)
Ouzeri O Skotadis: Open since 1945 and known for its top-quality fish and seafood, this taverna is located right on the port and looks out to rows of colourful fishing boats bobbing in the water. Owner and chef Giorgos Likouris combines creative ideas with modern cooking techniques to make the most of the fresh ingredients he uses. The fried cod or stingray with garlic sauce and the seafood with orzo pasta stand out. The wine and spirits menus are well-curated. (46 Dimokratias avenue, Aegina, tel.: 0030 97 024014)
Agora: You’ll find this cult tavern with a vibrant atmosphere hidden away in a quaint alley right behind Aegina’s fish market. Also known as Geladakis, this place is known for quality seafood and amazing fried fish dishes, as well as its wide selection of tasty meze dishes. (Ireoti Panagi str, Fish Market, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297027308)
Nontas: This historic taverna with a distinctive indigo floor, wooden porch and a lovely view of Moni island has been around for over 80 years, and for good reason. Located right on the water, it serves fresh fish that’s grilled to perfection, as well as traditional pies made with village-style filo dough. For dessert, try the homemade “spoon sweets”. Don’t miss out on the tiganosoupa. (Perdika, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297 061233)
Kavouropetra: Relax on the airy veranda at this seafront family-run taverna and enjoy fresh fish with a glass of ouzo and a gorgeous sunset view. Order a selection of delicately fried dishes, the mouthwatering char-grilled sardines and couscous with langoustines. (Kavouropetra bay, on the way towards Souvala, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297 023001)
Τo Steki Tou Kinigou: On the main square of a mountainous village, this taverna with a friendly atmosphere serves classic Greek homemade-style casserole dishes and grilled meats. Try the rooster in tomato sauce with pasta, pies with aromatic wild greens that are cooked in a traditional wood-burning oven and charcoal-grilled steaks. (Anitseo, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297031210)
Aeginitisa: This is a modern fish taverna on the homonymous sandy, shallow bay. It serves fresh fish and traditional-style casserole dishes that change daily, as well as specialties like sushi, seafood linguini and fried mussels with a pistachio and garlic sauce. (Perdika-Aeginitisa, Aegina, tel.: 0030 2297061546)
Read also:
Aegina: The most famous of the islands close to Athens
Aegina, Greece: The top 5 places for fresh fish and fine meze
Tour of Aegina, Greece – Neoclassical buildings, pistachios and archaeological sites
