Walter Ponce
Service: **★★★★│**Food: **★★★★│**Location: **★★★★★│**Price: **★★★│**Portions: ★★★
Prepare to be ensnared by the enchanting ambiance of Narcissus, a haven that beckons with the promise of an intimate and romantic seaside dinner. Situated against the backdrop of the azure sea, this restaurant captures the essence of allure, offering a Mediterranean dining experience curated exclusively from local ingredients by their esteemed chef, a true embodiment of Mykonos’ flavors. The setting exudes sophistication, enveloping you in a lounge atmosphere that is further elevated by an impeccable wine list, elevating the entire experience.
As a poolside culinary gem in Mykonos, Narcissus boasts a rarity in location that is perfectly complemented by the culinary artistry of their chef, showcasing a symphony of Greek delicacies. The juxtaposition of the stunning locale and the intricate decorative nuances coalesce to etch the Narcissus dining experience indelibly into your memory.
Food review Narcissus
During my recent journey to Mykonos, I had the privilege of savoring an exquisite dinner while gazing upon the resplendent sunset over the Cyclades, all while sipping on one of their meticulously crafted cocktails. The breadth of their offerings was extensive, presenting a diverse range of local ingredients prepared in the quintessential Mediterranean manner. The poolside restaurant of our boutique hotel in Mykonos hosted this culinary spectacle, bolstered by a meticulously curated selection of fine Greek wines that effortlessly complemented the chef’s creations.
Opting for the chef’s degustation menu, I embarked on a culinary odyssey that left me utterly speechless. With each course, the restaurant showcased its mastery of Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, weaving traditional elements into reimagined delights. My choice was the meat-focused degustation menu, an assemblage of diverse plates, each thoughtfully orchestrated. The flavors, though refined, resonated with familiarity, creating a perfect balance.
Among the culinary revelations, the succulent pork belly stood out, its flavor profile a masterpiece. The petite yet incredibly flavorful portion of lamb loin exhibited a delightful melt-in-the-mouth quality, harmoniously married with the** teriyaki sauce.** And for dessert, the chocolate lover in me was treated to a symphony of flavors in the form of a chocolate dessert – a harmonious blend of chocolate ice cream, white chocolate, and crumbles, a fitting crescendo to the meal.
The wine selection offered a tapestry of options, and the option to indulge by the glass only enhanced the experience. The staff, marked by their impeccable professionalism, attentive demeanor, and warm hospitality, orchestrated the evening seamlessly. A complimentary offering from the chef – bread with ink and an array of sauces – was a pleasant surprise that underscored the attention to detail.
Without a doubt, the evening spent at Narcissus emerged as a luminous highlight of my Mykonos sojourn, and I’m already counting down the days until I can return to relive this exquisite experience.
Narcissus Restaurant Website: https://www.narcissusmykonosrestaurant.gr/
Narcissus Restaurant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/narcissusmykonos/
Narcissus Restaurant Address: Kouros Hotel, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Narcissus Restaurant Menu: http://www.narcissusmykonosrestaurant.gr/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Narcissus_menu.pdf
What is a degustation menu?
A degustation (or tasting) menu is a set sequence of small courses chosen by the chef. Instead of ordering a starter, main course and dessert, you get to try a wider range of dishes in smaller portions. A few things to keep in mind:
- Plan for time. Tasting menus usually take two to three hours, so they are best for a relaxed evening.
- Tell the staff about allergies or dietary needs when you book and again when you sit down.
- Ask about wine pairings. Many restaurants offer a matching glass of wine for each course, or the staff can suggest wines by the glass.
- Choose your focus. Some restaurants, like Narcissus at the time of the visit, offer different versions of the menu, for example meat-focused or seafood-focused.
Greek wines to look out for
Greece has a long winemaking history and many indigenous grape varieties that are worth exploring. If you see them on the wine list, consider trying:
- Assyrtiko – a crisp, mineral white wine, most famously from Santorini, a perfect match for seafood
- Malagousia – an aromatic white with floral and fruity notes
- Moschofilero – a light, fragrant white from the Peloponnese
- Agiorgitiko – a smooth, fruity red from Nemea
- Xinomavro – a structured red from northern Greece, often compared to Nebbiolo
Ordering by the glass is a great way to try several Greek wines in one evening.
Getting there
Narcissus is located at the Kouros Hotel, close to Mykonos Town (Chora). Taxis on the island are limited in high season, so it is a good idea to book a transfer or ask your hotel to arrange transport, especially for the ride back after dinner. If you are staying in town, check whether the walk is comfortable – roads on Mykonos can be narrow and have few sidewalks.
What to do before or after dinner
- Little Venice – A row of colorful houses built right at the edge of the sea, famous for sunset drinks.
- The windmills (Kato Mili) – The island’s iconic windmills on a hill above Little Venice.
- Chora’s alleys – A maze of whitewashed streets full of boutiques, galleries and bars.
- Panagia Paraportiani – One of the most photographed churches in Greece, in the old Kastro area of town.
- Delos – Take a boat from the old port to this UNESCO-listed archaeological island, ideally in the morning.
Tips for dining at Narcissus
- Book ahead, especially between June and September.
- Ask for a table with a view and arrive early if you want to watch the sunset over the Cyclades.
- Dress smart casual, as is common for upscale dinners on Mykonos.
- Check the current menu and season dates before you go. The menu linked above may be outdated, and restaurants on the island usually close in winter.
- Budget accordingly. Dining on Mykonos is among the most expensive in Greece.
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FAQ
Where is Narcissus restaurant in Mykonos? Narcissus is the poolside restaurant of the Kouros Hotel, close to Mykonos Town.
What kind of food does Narcissus serve? Mediterranean and Greek cuisine made with local ingredients, including a chef’s degustation menu at the time of the visit.
How much does dinner at Narcissus cost? At the time of the visit, the average was around 100-150 euros per person. Prices may have changed.
Is Narcissus a good place for a romantic dinner? Yes. The seaside setting, sunset views and lounge atmosphere make it a popular choice for couples.
Do I need to book? Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.
Is Narcissus open all year? Restaurants on Mykonos are usually seasonal. Check the website for current opening dates.
