Candouni — Restaurant in Municipality of Thira

We wanted to visit this place because we got it recommended from a local friend, and from the outside it looked very cosy so I was truly excited to try, but we got a very unpleasant experience instead... We went there last Monday afternoon, around 3:00 pm, the place was empty, only two tables were occupied at the moment and we waited some minutes by the entrance to see if someone would take us to a table.

As nobody showed up, we took a menu, looked at it and started walking slowly into the place. We finally decided to sit in one of the many tables available (as I mentioned it was basically empty). Once we sat, the manager/owner came and asked us in a very rude way if he can help us, we answered we were wondering if we could take a table for two, he told us to sit in another table by the corner with two chairs, which in principle we would totally understand and accept to take our things to that other table, but the tone he used and the way he talked to us just made us feel extremely unwelcomed.

My partner asked him what the problem was with staying where we were and he said "this is a table for four people, if you are two you need to go to the other table, do you know that's how it works!?". We asked if they were reserved or if he was expecting the restaurant to be that full soon, but he kept saying "this is how it works, otherwise the next 2 people who come would want to sit in a table for four". We said we understand, and we left the place... Then he started yelling at us that the restaurant was for the food not for the table (of course we know, we wanted to visit that place for the food), and he kept yelling something while we were out, he even complaint to the other couple that was sitting in another table about us and then yelled at us from inside of the place "find other two people if you want to sit there".

During all the time travelling in Greece we were always treated in a very nice and kind way, except for this time, this was the worst I have been treated in Greece by far. If you are looking for delicious food and enjoy being treated with respect as any normal human being, there are other options, such as Santorini Mou (a bit out from Oia but it definitely worths it in all aspects, food, service, environment).

Reading the comments after this happened I can see we were not the only ones with similar experiences, this person seems to need help to manage his anger, or maybe just understanding that a restaurant is not "only about the food" but service and atmosphere are important too and they definitely make a difference in how much one enjoys good food.

Maybe he has a pattern of people he treats like that, but I don't think it's worth it to figure out if he would treat you nice or bad if...

AVOID!! Do not be fooled by the “Local Guide” reviews.

The food is okay (Karma and Melitini are far, far better - spend your money and time there instead) and the wine is terribly overpriced (look at other reviews).

The really awful aspect is the service and especially the manager/chef/waiter whatever he is. I ate here with my 82 year old father and 75 year old mother. They had both flown in earlier that day and were very, very tired. We waited about 90 minutes for our main courses. At that point, my mother was falling asleep at the table and we asked to take our food to go.

I’m not sure how asking that food we paid for be placed in a box can be such an issue, but apparently it was. The manager acted as though he was beside himself that we asked to take our food to go, even after I explained that my mother was falling asleep at the table.

After pleading with him to let us leave with our food, he agreed. He then yelled my name from another room to tell me to come pay for our food.

I walked over, and he asked if we’d like to leave a tip. We’re American, so this isn’t unusual for us, but it was unusual in Santorini where we had offered tips to waitstaff and bus drivers earlier in the day and were told it was not needed. That fact, coupled with the rude response to my request to take our food home and him yelling my name from another room to come pay set me over the edge.

I told him I wouldn’t be leaving a tip, and he asked “really?”. I said “yes, really - I can’t understand how taking food to go because my 75 year old mother is falling asleep was an issue, but apparently it was”.

He then practically threw my check at me, then plainly told me “go.”

As other reviews have mentioned, there were also mysterious charges on my bill (maybe my fault for not checking before I stormed off).

Please avoid at all costs. This man knows he has tourists coming, and will tell you straight to your face that he doesn’t care at all if you’re not satisfied (again, read the other reviews and don’t pay attention to...

Candouni in Oia, Greece, offers a captivating atmosphere that initially drew us into the establishment. The charming decor and inviting ambiance set the stage for what we hoped would be a delightful dining experience. However, our visit was a mixed bag of highs and lows.

Upon entering, we were enchanted by the stunning surroundings, which made it a perfect spot for capturing beautiful moments. However, I made the mistake of taking a few videos and photos, which seemed to upset the owner. He was quite eccentric and, frankly, a bit moody about it. Once I explained that we were there to enjoy the food, he lightened up a bit, but his demeanor remained a bit off-putting.

While we usually appreciate engaging conversations, the owner was quite talkative in a way that felt more serious than welcoming. It put a damper on our vacation vibe, and we found ourselves wishing he would relax a little and enjoy the moment with us.

As for the food, it was a mixed experience. Some dishes were delicious and showcased the flavors of Greek cuisine beautifully, while others were tough and overcooked, leaving us feeling a bit confused about the meal overall. It was a shame because we had high expectations based on the restaurant's reputation.

Despite the awkwardness with the owner, we found some solace in the lovely atmosphere and the presence of the owner's dog, who joined us throughout our meal. This furry companion brought a touch of joy and warmth to the experience, reminding us to appreciate the little things.

In summary, while Candouni has a stunning atmosphere and some delightful dishes, the experience was marred by the owner's moody demeanor and inconsistent food quality. We left with mixed feelings, but the charming ambiance and the friendly dog helped balance out the letdowns. If you're looking for a picturesque spot in Oia, it might be worth a visit, but be prepared for an eccentric...