Last week I returned to Mykonos, and by ‘return,’ I mean I’ve been twice—once as an eight-year-old, and once at twenty-one. Each experience looked extremely different from the other. However, this year was the most memorable, and that’s not just because it was five days ago.
I had lovely Greek tour guides (sorry for you, they are not for hire) and was lucky enough to be a guest at their (magnificent!) home. I can take zero credit—they planned things to a tee and graciously managed all of the logistics. Our itinerary included the perfect mix of hot spots and party, with that special sprinkle of Greek flare. See below.
If you’re looking for beach clubs, look no further than Nammos. Apparently, it’s the first modern beach club that really did it well on island. Yes, it’s on every list, but that’s simply because…you should go? The sushi is great, the Greek salad is great, and the fish is fresh (so fresh it will be plated with its eyes intact). I do remember eating the eye during my trip at age 8. And, of course, the DJ picks up and the crowd gets rowdy…as it should, it's Mykonos! We danced on the table and then carried on our merry way. Book ahead; the wait list is long.
We attended another beach club, Scorpios, perched on top on a cliff with a fantastic sunset view. We went for drinks, just as the raucous began. The people-watching is… incredible. The frocks surrounding us were exotic, sheer, minimalistic (quite literally) and leave nothing for the imagination—I’m not sure where one finds them, but that’s for another day—my grandmother would…faint.
My favorite beach club for the mix of vibe, setting and view was Spilia. Some in our group did not feel the same way, but they were sleepy. It was reminiscent of the cliffside Italian and French Riviera clubs (not to compare—they’re all perfectly spectacular and unique in their own ways!), but with a Greek menu and more energetic atmosphere. The people were ready to rock. Again, thanks to our gracious hosts, I can highly recommend the tuna tartare, ceviche and the linguine with mussels and claims (we enjoyed it with the tomato sauce). If you can, boat there and swim to and from the restaurant—the water is magical.
If seeking a more relaxed lunch, try Kikis. I went here as a child and witnessed a manly man bite the head off a live octopus, casually; hence, the food is quite fresh. Sea-to-table! (Is that a thing?) The restaurant is set above a majestic cove with the most inviting blue water one can find. To complement the octopus and pork chop, choose two or three plates of the 14+ fresh salad options inside. There are two seatings a day: one at 12:30 and the other at 16:00. Get there at least an hour early to secure a spot (and pack your bathing suit to make the time pass by).Â
To continue relaxing—after all, it is vacation—enjoy Rizes, a ‘folklore farmstead.’ This little village approximately thirty minutes outside of town is adorably quaint and makes use of its surroundings. The whole menu is farm-to-table and serves a delicious Greek salad (dare I say my favourite), divine tzatziki and crispy lamb meatballs, all fresh from their property. Apparently, there’s also a delicious pig you may be lucky enough to watch roast. I always appreciate a blue gingham tablecloth and highly recommend the garden-farm setting surrounded by flowers.
One more lunch I’ll leave you with (though didn’t enjoy due to my departure) is Fokos. It has a casual beachside vibe with top-rated hummus (by a hummus-loving friend).Â
Lastly, to party, obviously go into town. We dined at Cocco—a new trendy spot—with the cutest turquoise menus, amazing cocktails (get the Ginger Rush or Cucumber Chill) and a balanced menu. The setting is right on the water. Go dancing at Negrita or Scarpa after.
I didn’t shop much, but I got a pareo at Ada Kamara which I love. For linen, go to Salachas.
…that’s all for now! Again, no credit can be taken, just gratitude!
As always, eat, drink and be merry! And pack your party pants!
xx, EFR