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Few restaurants manage to weave ancient Greek legend into modern dining, but Elais does just that. Named after the mythic figure who could summon olive trees into bloom, it brings heritage to life through refined menus, sea-facing views, and an atmosphere that keeps Santa Marina’s guests lingering long after sunset.
Named after the myth of Elais, granddaughter of Apollo, this restaurant brings Greek heritage into a contemporary setting at Santa Marina, Mykonos. Its terrace looks directly over the Aegean, offering wide sea views and sunsets, with clean stone lines, natural light, and open spaces creating an ambience that feels polished and instantly welcoming.
The Santa Marina Scene
Part of what makes Elais shine is its setting within Santa Marina itself, a destination that draws a stylish, international crowd. Days begin on the resort’s private beach and ease into afternoons by the pool, before spilling into vibrant evenings where restaurants like Elais become the natural hub. The mood is lively yet refined, a place where well-heeled travellers, island regulars, and visiting friends gather over cocktails and shared plates. This social energy complements the restaurant’s gastronomic ambitions, turning dinner into a shared ritual of celebration.
A Menu Rooted in Greek Heritage
The menu celebrates authentic Greek flavours while elevating them with refinement. Starters bring familiar classics to life: fried calamari in a semolina crust with saffron aioli, octopus carpaccio with pickled artichokes and a light parmesan sauce, or the Greek mezze platter of vine leaves, louza, spicy cheese spread, and tzatziki.
Mains draw deeply on tradition while offering grandeur. The signature moussaka, baked to Santa Marina’s own recipe, arrives rich and comforting. The baked shoulder of lamb with thyme and ratatouille, designed for two, is rustic in concept but indulgent in execution. Seafood is given centre stage too, from Aegean lobster pasta in tomato bisque to grilled grouper fillet with local greens, and even the catch of the day prepared in a salt crust.
For a lighter yet no less satisfying option, the giouvetsi with ossobuco and orzo combines depth of flavour with the simplicity of slow cooking. And vegetarians are far from overlooked, with stuffed tomatoes and peppers with rice, raisins, and feta mousse offering a colourful, textured dish full of Aegean spirit.
The Sweetest Finale
Desserts at Elais are no afterthought. Choices include Ambrosia – namelaka yoghurt with caramelised pecan, honey, and yoghurt sorbet – and Elais Choco, a layered creation of chocolate cream, praline feuilletine, and Madagascar vanilla ice cream. For something lighter, fresh seasonal fruit plates carry the essence of summer simplicity.
Cocktails with a Greek Accent
The drinks list is a journey through Greece’s flavours, modernised with flair. Standouts include the Aegean El-Sour with tsipouro, fig leaves, and thyme honey; the playful “Porn Situation ala Greko” blending vanilla vodka with passion fruit and Greek yoghurt; and the herbaceous Katsouni Gimlet built on Greek gin and cucumber cordial. Champagne and fine wine lovers are spoiled too, with both Greek vineyards and international maisons represented.
Why It’s Special
Elais is not merely another restaurant in Mykonos; it’s an elevated expression of Greek culture and gastronomy in one of the island’s most privileged settings. With its panoramic views across the Aegean, menus that weave local heritage into refined dining, cocktails that bring Greek botanicals into modern glassware, and a dynamic social backdrop at Santa Marina, it creates evenings that feel equal parts intimate and celebratory.
Here, the myth of Elais is not just remembered – it’s relived, with every dish, every sip, and every sunset.
Location: Ornos, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
