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While in Mykonos, you must visit Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar in Little Venice!
Are you craving a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds and offers an exquisite drinking experience? Look no further than Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar.
Nestled in the heart of Little Venice, at the edge of the Aegean Sea, Katerina’s is more than just a dining destination; it’s a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
But what makes Katerina’s truly exceptional? Let’s uncover the secrets that make this establishment a gastronomic gem.
In a nutshell, Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is where sophistication meets innovation in cuisine and mixology. Imagine savoring meticulously crafted dishes while sipping on artisanal cocktails expertly curated by their mixologists.
Katerina’s is your passport to a world of flavors and experiences that transcend the ordinary.
And we cannot forget the breathtaking views! Katerina’s Restaurant in Little Venice, Mykonos offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the famous Mykonos windmills.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable evening with gorgeous sunset views over the Aegean Sea, Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar will exceed your expectations.
But these tantalizing tidbits are just the tip of the iceberg. As we delve deeper into the heart of Katerina’s, you’ll discover the culinary mastermind behind their delectable creations and the enchanting ambiance that sets the stage for unforgettable moments.
So, without further ado, let’s embark on a culinary journey like no other and explore why Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is a name that resonates with food lovers and connoisseurs alike.
Key Takeaways
- Katerina’s is where sophistication meets innovation in both cuisine and mixology, offering meticulously crafted dishes and artisanal cocktails.
- Beyond the exquisite food and drinks, Katerina’s offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and iconic Mykonos windmills.
- Whether you’re a food enthusiast, cocktail connoisseur, or simply seeking an unforgettable evening with a view, Katerina’s has something for everyone.
History of Katerina’s
Katerina Xidaki was born in the early 1940s in Mykonos, Greece. Her father was a fisherman, and Katerina would often sneak out of the house and into her father’s boat as a child. She loved the sea and wanted to be near it as much as possible.
Katerina worked with her father on his fishing boat. Katerina loved the ocean so much that she became the first professional female naval captain in Greece. You can read more about Katerina and her captivating bio here.
In the early 1990s, Katerina turned her family home facing the Aegean Sea in Mykonos into a restaurant and cocktail bar. She dubbed it Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. From the beginning, Katerina’s was a hit with visitors to Mykonos.
It has been a staple in the Little Venice area of Mykonos Town since it first opened its doors in 1991. Her son, Konstantinos Varnalis, managed the restaurant and designed the cocktail bar. Konstantinos is a talented artist, and his wooden sculptures grace the bar and restaurant’s interior.
Over the years, the restaurant has become a popular destination for locals and tourists. It is known for its picturesque views of the Aegean Sea, delicious food, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Katerina’s has undergone several renovations and updates through the years, but the restaurant has always retained its charm and its commitment to quality. Today, the restaurant is run by Katerina’s family, who continue to honor her legacy by serving delicious food and drinks in a beautiful setting.
Getting There-Little Venice Mykonos
Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is located in the Little Venice area of Mykonos Town in Mykonos, Greece. If you are staying in Mykonos Town, it is a delightful walk towards the sea through the town’s white-washed alleyways.
If you’re staying in one of the beach towns without a rental vehicle, Katerina’s in Mykonos Town can be reached by bus, taxi, or scheduled pickup service like Welcome Pickups.
During our visit to Mykonos, we stayed in the beach town Platis Gialos and opted to take the bus to Mykonos Town. You can read more about Platis Gialos here.
Do note that the Little Venice area of Mykonos Town is mainly pedestrian traffic only. It is about a 10-minute walk from the parking areas and bus/taxi drop-off to the restaurant along the Aegean Sea.
Location and View
We made reservations to Katerina’s about a month and a half in advance. Reservations at Katerina’s must be made by telephone, not online. When I called, I asked for a table for two on the balcony at sunset. Little did I know then what was in store for us.
Upon arriving at our reservation time, the hostess was initially unable to find our reservation. My heart sank. I thought our reservation got lost and we’d have to find somewhere else to dine.
Suddenly, the hostess said, “Oh, here it is, um, just one moment, please.” She then walked off. I thought she went to check to see if there was a table somewhere else in the restaurant in an attempt to accommodate us.
To our pleasant surprise, the hostess led us to the building next door to the restaurant, up the steep staircase flush with the wall, passing a quaint kitchen on the right, and through a charming living room to a tiny little balcony facing the sea with two tables.
“This is Katerina’s house; you will dine on her balcony tonight,” the hostess stated. To say we were in awe is an understatement!
At Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, we were amazed at the stunning location and breathtaking view. The restaurant is situated in Little Venice, right on the water’s edge, and offers an incredible panoramic view of the Aegean Sea.
The view from the balcony is awe-inspiring, and we were lucky enough to be seated in this prime spot. It was the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The iconic Mykonian windmills in the distance add to the location’s charm. The view is awe-inspiring at sunset when the sky turns into beautiful shades of bright pink and fiery orange.
Menu and Food
At Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, they take pride in their extensive menu and delicious food. The menu offers an array of options for both lunch and dinner, including seafood, pasta dishes, and traditional Greek cuisine.
Katerina’s impressive online menu showcases a photo of every entree.
We started with the fried calamari. It was tender and juicy while being perfectly crispy. We then had the chicken and mushroom pappardelle and the shrimp linguine.
The pappardelle consisted of wide (think wide fettuccine) noodles with tender chicken and buttery mushrooms enveloped in a creamy parmesan and wine sauce.
At the same time, the shrimp linguine was comprised of perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with beautiful al dente linguine in a creamy tomato and cream sauce. Both of these entrees were divine!
For those looking for lighter options, Katerina’s also offers a variety of salads, including their Greek salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese.
They also have a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as our stuffed peppers, filled with rice, herbs, and spices.
To complement the delicious food, Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar offers a selection of Greek white wines, perfect for pairing with their seafood dishes.
For dessert, we highly recommend topping off with their baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of flaky phyllo dough and chopped nuts, drizzled with delicious honey, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was the perfect ending to an excellent meal.
Cocktail Bar and Drinks
Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar has an extensive selection of quality cocktails and cool drinks. Their cocktail bar is known for its fantastic cocktails and tiki menu, featuring a variety of classic and modern drinks.
Their skilled bartenders use only the finest spirits and ingredients to craft each drink carefully and precisely.
One of their most popular cocktails is the Zombie XL, a classic tiki drink made with rum, lime, grapefruit, and grenadine. It is served in a cute ‘mummified’ ceramic tumbler topped with a flame.
The Zombie was as delicious as it was fun! We also had to try Katerina’s Mai Tai and Passion Trip, made with passionfruit puree. They were out of this world! When you visit Katerina’s, definitely try a variety of their cocktails.
You will not be disappointed!
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, sour, or spicy, their cocktail bar has something for everyone.
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Service and Atmosphere
At Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, we were impressed by the terrific service and atmosphere. The waitstaff was attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived.
They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations, ensuring our dining experience was memorable.
Overall, we highly recommend Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience.
The service, atmosphere, and food were all excellent, making it a must-visit destination in Mykonos.
General Tips and Recommendations
When dining at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best experience possible. Here are some general tips and recommendations:
- Reservations: Making a reservation ahead of time is highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can make a reservation by calling the restaurant directly.
- Expensive: Keep in mind that Katerina’s is pricier, but the food quality and stunning sunset views make it worth the splurge.
- Sunset Dinner: If you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner, Katerina’s is the perfect spot. The views of the Aegean Sea and the iconic windmills are simply breathtaking.
- Konstantinos Varnalis: The restaurant is also home to a collection of beautiful wooden sculptures by Katerina’s son, Konstantinos Varnalis, a renowned Greek artist. Be sure to take a look around and admire the sculptures.
- Min Spend: Remember that the minimum spend per person varies depending on the time of day and the season. Be sure to check the website or call ahead for more information.
We were very impressed with the food, service, and view at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. The restaurant is in a prime spot in Mykonos’ Little Venice, right on the water’s edge, and the view is breathtaking.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy drinks with friends, Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is the perfect choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular dishes at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
Some popular dishes at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar include the Moussaka, Lamb Souvlaki, and Salmon. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean and Greek cuisine and also offers healthy options.
How is the service at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
The service at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is excellent. The staff knows the menu and can make great recommendations that consider dietary preferences.
What is the price range at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
The price range at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is moderate. There are a variety of entrees at different price points, with the overall visit’s cost greatly depending on the specific food and drink options ordered.
Are reservations required at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
While reservations are not required, they are recommended, especially during peak season. Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar can get busy, and making a reservation can ensure you get a table at your desired time
What is the atmosphere like at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
The atmosphere at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is lively and vibrant. The restaurant is located in the heart of Little Venice and offers stunning sea views. The decor is modern and stylish, with a relaxed and welcoming vibe.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options at Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar?
Yes, Katerina’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, grilled vegetables, and pasta dishes.
