For more than forty years, Selene has played a defining role in Santorini’s culinary identity. Established in 1985 by Giorgos Hatzigiannakis and Evelyn Hatzigiannaki, the restaurant was created with a vision of showcasing the island’s unique ingredients and reviving its forgotten gastronomic traditions. Today, Selene continues this mission from its home within the historic Katikies Garden, an eighteenth century Catholic monastery in Fira, offering a fine dining experience inspired by the soul of Santorini.
A Legacy Rooted in Santorinian Gastronomy
Since its founding, Selene has focused on expressing the authentic character of Santorini through its cuisine. The restaurant’s philosophy centers on local products, traditional flavors, and the island’s volcanic landscape, transforming regional ingredients into refined contemporary dishes while preserving their cultural heritage. This dedication has established Selene as one of Santorini’s most recognized gastronomic landmarks.
A New Era Under Ettore Botrini
In 2021, Michelin starred chef Ettore Botrini assumed the culinary leadership of Selene, guiding the restaurant into a new chapter while honoring its longstanding legacy. His approach combines creativity with respect for local traditions, drawing inspiration from the island’s natural environment, the abundance of the Aegean Sea, and the resilience of ingredients that thrive in Santorini’s volcanic soil. The result is a dining experience that balances simplicity with innovation and tradition with modern culinary techniques.
Menus Inspired by the Island
Selene offers carefully curated tasting menus that reflect the rhythm of the seasons and the richness of Santorinian gastronomy. Named Half Moon, Harvest Moon, and Full Moon, these degustation experiences present thoughtfully composed courses that celebrate local produce and the restaurant’s contemporary interpretation of Cycladic cuisine. Guests may also choose from an à la carte selection that reflects the same culinary philosophy.
An Exceptional Wine Experience
Wine is an integral part of the Selene experience. The restaurant’s wine program is curated by Master of Wine Yiannis Karakasis, with a particular emphasis on the vineyards of Santorini and the island’s distinctive grape varieties. Carefully selected wine pairings complement each menu, allowing guests to explore the character and diversity of one of Greece’s most celebrated wine producing regions.
Dining in a Historic Setting
Selene is located within the restored surroundings of an eighteenth century Catholic monastery in the heart of Fira. The historic architecture, elegant courtyard, and understated atmosphere create a setting where the island’s heritage becomes part of the dining experience. The combination of medieval charm, refined hospitality, and contemporary cuisine offers guests an immersive journey through Santorini’s history and culinary culture.
A Culinary Philosophy Built on Authenticity
The restaurant describes its mission as creating an authentic gastronomic experience that unites earth and sea, nostalgia and innovation, and tradition and creativity. Every aspect of the experience reflects a commitment to expressing the essence of Santorini through food, wine, and hospitality, allowing visitors to discover the island’s culinary identity in a setting that has become part of its own history.
Discover the full experience:
https://selene.gr/
Content Manager: Ambassador Mykonos Promo Kostas Skagias
