Sitári Bakery — Restaurant in Municipality of Naxos and the Lesser Cyclades

On my first day in Naxos, I made the mistake of eating at a nearby bakery with similarly high reviews, and was a bit disappointed when I got a rather stale spinach and feta pie. So, on my second day, I came to Sitári Shop for breakfast, and after that, I returned every day for more baklava and veggie pies.

The baklava here is not just the best baklava in Naxos, it is the best I have ever had and perhaps the best in the world. The chef uses only fresh and local ingredients, and you can taste the difference. The filo is so flaky, so buttery. He uses honey instead of syrup, so it is perfectly sweet but not heavy. The filling reminds me of my mother's pecan pie, but somehow even better. And the chef is so passionate about his food; his dedication and commitment to perfection is evidenced in every bite.

New pastries come out fresh throughout the day, so it's not uncommon to take your first bite and find that it's still warm from the oven. I tried the chicken pie, the spinach and feta pie, and the vegan leek pie, and all were outstanding. I would highly recommend giving Sitári Shop a try, even if it's just to talk to the delightful and enthusiastic chef, but you would be remiss to leave Naxos without giving...

Visiting Naxos- Day 1, tried 5 different freshly-baked cookies. The flavors of cinnamon and honey, etc. are subtle and the cookies melt in your mouth. Day 2, local soft cheese filled cookies and pie - just dreamy. Day 3 - Little Feta and spinach fold overs were perfect for taking along for a hike up to the Temple of Apollo. Oh, and several varieties of crispy rings coated with sesame seeds or sunflower. The beetroot rings are really unique and yummy. Day 4- our final morning, I went to get zucchini pie for my ferry ride and to say, “goodbye.” (after visiting daily for take out or resting on the covered cafe - this place should be your daily go to). The manager Dimitris was there, as he is everyday until 3. He runs this lovely little bakery with great care. He’s so attentive and welcoming. He makes you feel like an old friend. Serving as a waiter and in food service since he was 10, his English is incredibly well-developed. He probably speaks half a dozen languages! He smiles from his eyes. He is Naxos. Oh, the BEST BAKLAVA...

How do I begin to share my love for this bakery? I was in Naxos for holiday and stumbled upon this (super centrally located) bakery and had the most amazing experience thanks to head baker Dimitris. My friend and I were getting some savory pies for our beach day and Dimitris proceeded to share the beautiful history behind his baking. We tasted treats that were his mother’s recipe, had the BEST baklava of my life. When we mentioned it was my birthday in a couple days and that we would be back… Dimitris greeted me with a beautiful happy birthday song and a golden candle to boot. I cannot properly explain not only the quality of the treats we had but the customer service. If you do one thing in Naxos I beg you to visit Dimitris as he will not only make you feel at home and welcome, but will also delight your tastebuds in the most exceptional way. We have fallen so in love with this island thanks to people like Dimi and we cannot wait to return...