The South Aegean region continues to affirm its position as a gastronomic hub of Greece. This year, 20 restaurants across the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands were recognized among the best in the country at the prestigious “Chrysoi Skoufoi” (Golden Chef’s Hat) awards, organized by Athinorama, Greece’s leading gastronomic guide.
A total of 14 restaurants in the South Aegean received a Golden Hat, out of 45 awards given nationwide. Santorini stood out, taking half of the 14 awards, confirming its role as a top culinary destination. Additionally, six more restaurants were honored with the Top Notch distinction, awarded to establishments that are just below the Golden Hat ranking. Among them, a newcomer from the small island of Symi reflects the ongoing growth and diversity of the region’s high-quality gastronomy scene.
The awards ceremony took place on Monday, 9 March, at the Grand Hyatt Athens, gathering each year the forefront of Greek gastronomy. South Aegean Regional Governor, George Hatzimarkos, attended the event and presented awards, noting:
“It is no coincidence that each year the South Aegean restaurants hold a prominent place in these awards. This is the result of the talent and professionalism of our chefs and entrepreneurs, the unique local ingredients of our islands, and our strategic choice to invest in gastronomy as a cornerstone of our tourism identity. I warmly congratulate all the creators who were honored. Through their work and creativity, they become the best ambassadors of our islands.”
The award for Best Restaurant in Greece was presented by the Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni. The ceremony was hosted by Christos Ferentinos, and the evening’s dinner was prepared by acclaimed chefs Athenagoras Kostakos, closely associated with the South Aegean, and Vasilis Mouratidis.
The Chrysoi Skoufoi awards are organized with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT), the South Aegean Region, and the Region of Attica, under the auspices of the Ministry of Development, Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the City of Athens.
See the list of awarded restaurants here. This outstanding recognition highlights the South Aegean’s continued excellence in gastronomy and reinforces its status as a European Region of Gastronomy, showcasing the islands not only as world-class destinations but also as the gastronomic heart of Greece.
