Maro's taverna — Restaurant in Municipality of Naxos and the Lesser Cyclades

Maybe this restaurant has been around forever, but otherwise I suspect foul play regarding the reviews - no other restaurant on Naxos in this rating range (4,5+) comes even close in the number of reviews (currently 1.400+), except for MEZE 2 (currently around 1.200), which sits on the waterfront with heavy traffic.

After one week on Naxos of having generally delicious food (mostly seafood/fish), we wanted to have the meaty Greek classics gyros and pork souvlaki. Based on the reviews and how packed this place was (at lunch), we decided to satisfy that craving here.

Unfortunately, this was by far one of the worst meals either one of us ever had in Greece. The pork souvlaki was very dry, very tough and very underseasoned. The gyros was a bit better, but curiously came in randomly-sized bits, some rather large and all of them larger than the usual thin slices - overall it was still quite dry.

Even the fried potatoes/fries, which are usually very tasty in Greece, were tasteless and underseasoned on top. I suspect the fries are frozen and store-bought, as is the tzatziki (you can tell by the rather plain taste und watery texture; also, no olive as a garnish) and apparently the pita as well.

They sell bottles of wine for 15€, but you cannot try it - because they don't sell it by the glass apparently? Another probable ripoff in my opinion.

To top it all off, there was nothing on the house, as is customary on Naxos (mostly quite delicious dessert). At least it was relatively cheap, although for what you get, I would still say the value is not right. Lastly, we thought that the service wasn't friendly (also a stark contrast to that we have seen elsewhere).

Yes, we ate it all (preemptive response to the owner who seems to comment on some of the negative reviews), but that was definitely because we are frugal types and we were quite hungry and not because...

Maro's Taverna is a true gem for anyone seeking an authentic Greek dining experience. Nestled in a welcoming and vibrant setting, this taverna offers a perfect blend of traditional flavors, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.

The menu is a celebration of Greek cuisine, with every dish prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients that burst with flavor. The standout dishes include their perfectly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and hearty vegetarian options, all seasoned with traditional herbs and spices. Their moussaka and lamb dishes are especially divine, offering rich, comforting flavors that leave a lasting impression.

What truly sets Maro's Taverna apart is its attentive and friendly service. The staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, offering helpful recommendations and ensuring your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you're a seasoned lover of Greek food or trying it for the first time, the team at Maro's ensures you'll leave with a satisfied palate and a happy heart.

The ambiance is charming and relaxed, making it ideal for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or a casual meal with friends. The rustic decor and the occasional live music add a delightful touch to the overall experience.

If you're visiting Greece or simply craving authentic Greek flavors, Maro's Taverna is a must-visit destination. It's more than a meal; it's a celebration of Greek culture and hospitality.

Highly...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Maro Taverna in Naxos, and it was truly a phenomenal experience. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the quick service and exceptional pricing.

While one of the servers seemed a bit disinterested, the other two more than made up for it with their exemplary support and attentiveness.

(Marios and Katerina) They noticed I was dining alone and went out of their way to ensure I felt welcome and comfortable. I especially appreciated the female server's kind gesture of offering me a complimentary carafe of wine.

The food itself was absolutely delicious, and the portions were generous. It's clear that Maro Taverna uses fresh, local ingredients, and the quality shines through in every dish.

Overall, I cannot recommend Maro Taverna enough. The combination of delicious food, excellent value, and outstanding service (from most of the staff!) makes it a must-visit for anyone coming to Naxos. I will definitely be recommending it to all my friends and family!

We had such a wonderful time together all of us. After closing with celebratory drinks it was as if we were part of the family.

Hint Hint the nicer you are the nicer things you...