Lucullus Taverna — Restaurant in Municipality of Naxos and the Lesser Cyclades

I don’t want to give too good review as I want to keep this place secret ... but then this lovely taverna is just so wonderful that I cannot help writing about it ! Hidden in a narrow corridor of the old market, the restaurant is very picturesque. Love the authentic feel of the venue with Greek music and friendly waiter. Food was very impressive too! Our starter of octopus with olive oil was simple but fresh, the stuffed vine leaves was the best I have ever tasted. Soft, melting mouth feeling with just right amount of vinegar. Superb ! My husband lamb dish ( in the ‘traditional ‘ menu ) - lamb strew with veg and feta cheese topped with flaky pastry - was out of the world. My moussaka was gorgeous, my boy’s octopus with mush was tasty ( but he wanted more !) and my girl’s souvraki got everything. Pita, dip, small Greek salad , succulent chicken ... yum yum !! Even the bread was so fresh and warm. Served Greek yogurt with honey on the house ( is it customary in Náxos?) and the bill came as 78 for 4 of us. Which is much cheaper than the one by the port. Thoroughly satisfying experience. Needless to say we will go back to try out all those yummy looking meat dish too !! In fact I just want to eat there everyday from now on. Even the sulky teenagers...

Probably our own fault was visiting this very restaurant after trying quite a few other classic Greek Taverns all around Cyclades and Ionic islands. Located in the very heart of the old town Chora of Naxos, both Lucullus and the tiny side street it‘s on, supposed to be the pearl of the labyrinth. Though, unfortunately our expectations were not met. The most simple serving of dishes, mediocre taste palette - in fact, unsalted dishes, without the use of local herbs or any sauces. Feels like the recepies were created hundreds of years ago and remain unchanged. Perhaps someone will find this raw and authentic, though I can’t really refer to that. One of the main reasons to visit the restaurant is to try something unusual you can’t really cook yourself home.

The personal was rather nice and friendly. Can’t really say anything against. However, as soon as my wife started feeding the local cats with the chicken and beef from our menu, they immediately made us a few strict remarks not to do that. Which is an absolute nonsense for me being in Greece.

Sorry guys, we normally put exclusive positive reviews, but this case made me a bit confused.

Wish you best of luck and success...

My girlfriend and I stopped by this place as our very first stop in Naxos. Since our airbnb was literally next door, this was an easy stop right after getting off the plane. We ordered Pita Bread with Tzatziki, a meat pie, and mushroom risotto. The Pita Bread and tzatziki were one of the best I've ever had - a fantastic start to a meal. I'd go back just for this quick snack! The meat pie was also delicious, tender, and flavorful. The mushroom risotto was really enjoyed by my girlfriend. Overall, everything was great that was served at Lucullus. They gave us a complimentary yogurt with honey - another display of hospitality from them as they had treated us like family from the beginning. Would highly recommend as a comfortable and welcoming place to get delicious, well-priced food. They also have some cats pop in and visit - what else can...