TORTUGA ArtCafè Winebar Gallery — Restaurant in Municipality of Aegina

Thank you for a meal that reminded me that there are chefs who understand flavour, understand seasoning and treat their ingredients with due reverence. On the two previous evenings at other local restaurants we had been served cold unseasoned boiled courgettes, there are prisoners serving life sentences for lesser crimes than this. Anyway back to the food, we were after a late evening light meal after a late lunch. To start with, we were given mini bruschetta, rich in flavour and seasoned with rock salt and chilli flakes. This was followed by a mixed platter of Italian charcuterie and cheeses, served unexpectedly with a peach jam, this was delicious but perhaps even better with the option of an acidic condiment. A caprese salad with a Bocconcini (I think) of Mozarella was unctuous, runny, sweet and rich, complemented with the brightest red cherry tomatoes, dry and salty Gran Padano and crisp and peppery rocket. After this we had a lemon tart (Pleasingly the chef had used multiples of the amount of lemon in the recipe) washed down with a glass of iced Amaretto. We enjoyed a very reasonably priced bottle of Greek Pinot Noir with the meal. I cannot recommend highly enough, in fact I’m just getting ready for a...

Tortuga is a true gem! We went there several times during our stay in Aegina. They have an excellent wine selection, friendly service, and serve legit, straight-from-Napoli style coffee. (Bonus! They also have fun iced coffees!)

Some menu favorites (because they also serve great food!!) include: Lemon pie Salmon tartare Pasta with beet sauce, (I have reminisced about this every day since.... it is so good!) Pasta with salmon (loved this too)

The vibes: Even in the heart of the historic center, the clientele is a fun mix of visitors and locals--because of the staff's hospitality, you start to feel like a local by the end of your Happy Hour. Big shout-out to the DJ who played awesome sets with a good blend of throwbacks. : ) Super welcoming and helpful staff who make you feel at home

10/10...

The location is absolutely perfect — right in the center and just a minute from the port, making it super easy to find. The warm and welcoming Italian owner from Naples instantly made us feel at home with his kindness and hospitality. The staff were also incredibly attentive and friendly, always making sure we had everything we needed. The food was exceptional — a true taste of Italy abroad! You can tell they use high-quality and carefully selected ingredients. As an Italian on vacation, I can confidently say this place is the real deal! It’s great for everyone — whether you’re a family or a group of young travelers. Prices are very reasonable for the quality, and they offer delicious local products, perfect for an aperitivo. Lovely and value location to stop in...