A guide to the best restaurants in Petra

Local produce at The Women's Cooperative

You know the food is fresh when you can see it on display prior to ordering. This charming establishment is, as the name suggests, staffed entirely by local ladies, with one person often doubling up as waitress, chef and even proprietor of the curio store beneath it. The Women’s Cooperative? The Superwomen’s Cooperative, more like.

From farm to plate at Zyros Restaurant

Zyros might be a little difficult to locate, but persevere and you’ll be rewarded with perhaps the biggest portion sizes in all of Petra. What’s more, the meat and produce comes directly from the owner’s farm, ensuring freshness and quality packed into every bite. Bring your appetite with you as portions are large.

A place for all occasions at Restaurant Thalassa

Sitting inside or outside, for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Thalassa is a safe bet for an exceptional dining experience. The home-cooked menu is crafted to delight your taste buds, while the outstanding value for money will keep your purse strings tight as well. To top the experience off, service comes with a smile every time, and sometimes with a complimentary dessert.

Lazy beachside meals at The Reef

For a day lazing on the beach during your holidays to Lesvos, punctuated by the odd dip in the sea and some of the finest cuisine you’re likely to taste, then head to The Reef. Costas and his friendly staff will ensure your stomach and your glass are always full. The free sun beds make a great choice at lunchtimes, while the spacious enclosed area is a cooler option providing shade and an intimate evening atmosphere.

Seafood with a smile at Nikos

Another beachfront taverna with excellent cuisine and a warm welcome, Nikos excels in all manner of seafood. After a succulent meal at very reasonable prices, expect to leave with a full stomach and perhaps even a parting hug from the friendly owner himself.

Fresh fast food in the courtyard at Kalderimi

Though this place is famous for its burgers, gyros and souvlakis, don’t mistake it for being a simple fast food joint. Everything is made to order and the impeccable service and quaint courtyard setting only serve to enhance an enjoyable dining experience.

Pizza by the sea at Rama Pizzeria Restaurant

If you’re after a change from all those moussakas and souvlakis, you can go Italian with some of the most delicious pizza in Petra. The beachside location makes for the perfect backdrop to crispy, freshly baked pastry that is likely to leave you hankering for more.

Venture a little further from the tourist-dominated promenade and you’ll find yourself at O Gavrilos, perched on the hillside overlooking the town. Its elevated vantage point makes it a great place to take in the sunset while tucking into some excellent Greek grill favourites.

Venture a little further from the tourist-dominated promenade and you’ll find yourself at O Gavrilos, perched on the hillside overlooking the town. Its elevated vantage point makes it a great place to take in the sunset while tucking into some excellent Greek grill favourites.

Beautiful dishes in the square at Capricorn Restaurant

Its position at the end of the main square means that Capricorn enjoys a relaxed dining experience away from the hubbub of the coastline, accentuated by the beautiful environs of its enclosed courtyard. With all dishes lovingly prepared and served with an emphasis on aesthetic appearance, you won’t regret your choice.

Breakfast and snacks at Kantina Snack Bar

Kantina excels in the breakfast department, though it’s not so much a place for a main meal as for a coffee, cocktail or snack. The continental and traditional Greek offerings are a great way to start the day, while those hankering for a taste of home will be delighted by the full English, complete with bacon and sausages.