There are countless reasons to visit the Greek islands—from the sparkling blue sea and white sandy beaches to the awe-inspiring ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes. But let’s be honest: you’ll enjoy it all a lot more with a full stomach. Fortunately, the islands deliver when it comes to food—even for plant-based eaters.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our top picks for delicious vegan cuisine across the Greek islands.
Are the Greek islands vegan-friendly?
In short, yes—the Greek islands are becoming more vegan-friendly than ever. According to HappyCow, Crete alone boasts nearly 400 restaurants offering vegan options, while Corfu has over 160, and Kos around 60. Many eateries include plant-based dishes on their menus, thanks in large part to traditional Greek cuisine, which naturally leans into vegetables, legumes, and olive oil. For example, dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs) and gigantes plaki (giant beans baked in tomato sauce) are both classic, naturally vegan dishes.
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Looking for fully vegan or vegetarian spots? You’re in luck. Greece’s plant-based food scene is thriving, and some of the country’s best vegan restaurants can be found across its islands—from popular destinations like Mykonos and Corfu to hidden gems like Patmos.
Where to find the best vegan food on the Greek islands
Intrigued? Dive into our top picks for plant-based eats across the Greek islands below.
Rhino Vegan Beat
1 Rhino Vegan Beat
Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands, attracting around two million tourists each year. If you’re one of them, prepare to be captivated by its stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Amid all the exploring, make sure to refuel at Rhino Vegan Beat. This popular vegan hotspot specializes in street food, offering everything from juicy burgers and souvlaki wraps to truffle fries. Don’t leave without trying the ice cream tsoureki—a delightful twist on the traditional Greek sweet brioche.
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Koukoumi Hotel
2 Koukoumi Hotel
Mykonos
Another must-visit on the picturesque island of Mykonos is Koukoumi Hotel, which claims to be the first vegan five-star hotel in all of Greece. Bag yourself a room or just stop by to sample the food at the onsite plant-based restaurant, which specializes in high-end, innovative, whole food Mediterranean cuisine. Some menu highlights include the Lucid Dream lasagna, which is made with slow-cooked seitan, pickled shallots, cherry tomatoes, and sour cheese foam, and the Nebula Voyage, which features aubergine unagi, crispy leeks, and miso mayonnaise.
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FalafeLand
3 FalafeLand
Santorini
Like Mykonos, Santorini is one of the most renowned Greek islands, drawing in millions of tourists each year. While there aren’t many fully vegan restaurants on the island, you’re still in luck—vegetarian favorite FalafeLand has you covered. Specializing in plant-based street food, this spot serves up delicious options like its signature falafel wrap or the spicy mushroom gyros for those craving a kick.
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T Veg
4 T Veg
Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the largest Greek islands, and with its captivating ancient ruins and stunning coastline, it’s a must-visit. While you’re soaking up the history and scenery, make time for a hearty meal at T Veg. This cozy spot serves up delicious plant-based takes on Greek classics like souvlaki, moussaka, and loukoumades (traditional Greek doughnuts).
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Pulse
5 Pulse
Crete
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete has no shortage of attractions for the millions of tourists who visit each year. Like its neighbors, it boasts breathtaking scenery, fascinating ancient ruins, and an outstanding food scene. For top-notch plant-based cuisine, Pulse is a standout. It’s the perfect spot for a smoothie or a satisfying lunch, with menu highlights like crispy panko toast, giant wraps, mushroom focaccia, vegan souvlaki, and much more.
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Green Kukunari
6 Green Kukunari
Crete
Rivaling Pulse for the title of Crete’s top vegan spot is Green Kukunari, a plant-based oasis tucked away in a charming courtyard. This family-owned gem serves up innovative vegan cuisine crafted from fresh, organic ingredients. Standout dishes include the Pickled Beetroot Tartar, Eggplant Muhammara, and Vegan Sasuka—each as flavorful as it is beautifully presented.
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Pernera
7 Pernera
Patmos
If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic slice of Greece away from the crowds, Patmos might just be the island for you. Small but stunning, it’s well worth the journey—whether it’s an eight-hour ferry from Athens or a shorter four-hour trip from Kos. Despite its size, the island still delivers when it comes to delicious vegan food. Head to Pernera for a feast of organic, plant-based dishes like zucchini fritters, baba ganoush, and crispy mushroom kebabs, all made with fresh, local ingredients.
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Aubergine Cafe
8 Aubergine Cafe
Corfu
Corfu, set in the Ionian Sea, has it all: a UNESCO World Heritage old town, dramatic mountain scenery, beaches you’ll never want to leave, and food that keeps you coming back for more. For flavorful vegetarian and vegan fare, Aubergine Cafe is a must-visit. Open daily, it serves up delicious dishes like vegan gyros, moussaka, and zucchini pie—all made with care and bursting with local flavor.
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England’s southern coast.
