Taverna Axiotissa, Restaurant on Naxos, Greece
Taverna Axiotissa is a restaurant on the island of Naxos, Greece, set along the road toward the village of Kastraki, surrounded by trees that shade an open courtyard. Inside, the space is simple and unpretentious, with wooden tables and a relaxed layout that makes room for both small and larger groups.
Sofia and Yiannis Vasilas opened the taverna in 2000, with the goal of cooking good local food and living quietly away from the city. Yiannis was born in Montreal, studied philosophy in Canada, and worked in restaurants abroad before returning to Naxos.
The taverna's name refers to a revered local icon of the Virgin Mary, giving it a quiet connection to the religious life of the island. Locals and travelers sit side by side under the trees, and the owners often stop to talk about the food and where it comes from.
The taverna sits about 11 miles (18 km) from Naxos Town, along the road toward Alykos, and is easiest to reach by car. A reservation is a good idea, especially on weekends and during the summer months when the outdoor tables fill up quickly.
Yiannis Vasilas grows a part of the vegetables and herbs used in the kitchen in his own garden, choosing old seed varieties to preserve traditional flavors. He also produces his own wine, served alongside the meals, which ties the whole experience to the land around the taverna.
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