Best Gyros in Santorini: Lucky’s Souvlakis

Sunsets, ocean views, and beautiful beaches. Everything I heard about this place was very positive. Nearly everywhere I looked posed a postcard-worthy view. The people I met were friendly and happy to be exploring the beautiful paradise named Santorini. Based on my love of street food I also had another goal – to find the best gyros in Santorini.

I was curious how Santorini’s gyros would compare to my favorite in Athens. One way I like to find great street food is to wander around and see which spot has the longest line and where I see the most locals. In addition, I also like to ask hospitality staff I encounter such as those working in hostels or tour guides. Lastly, I like to consult food and travel bloggers online. SantoriniDave has put together a great list of restaurants on the island and I found this was his only mention of gyros specifically.

Everyone I talked to and the articles I read led me here. Just as I was excited to have landed in Santorini, I was ready to see what this little street food spot had to offer.

Lucky’s Souvlakis

After ordering the chicken gyros, which more than one local recommended, I waited in line with several other people to watch it being made. While waiting, a local asked me where I was from and how I heard about Lucky’s. I told him chatted while I waited, thinking he may be the owner. I asked if he was and he replied no, he just wanted to make sure I was having a good time. Then he said he eats there nearly every day. I was about to find out why.

The chicken gyros was fantastic! Just as in Athens, the meat was perfectly cooked, cut fresh from the vertical rotisserie and placed directly into my gyros. The vegetables were sliced thin so that I had some tomato, onion and lettuce in each bite but at the same time they weren’t overwhelming. The pita was buttered, toasted, loaded and then smeared with a thicker style tzatziki. It was heavy on the garlic, which I loved. The generous smear of the sauce also ensured some in every bite. The french fries were fresh and once added, the whole wrap was lightly dusted with some seasoned salt. They will also add some spicy paprika upon request. I loved these final sprinkles of seasoning.

This great little meal can be yours for for mere $3. This has to be one of the best deals on the island. With friendly locals, smiling staff and delicious food, I was in heaven. I returned two more times and enjoyed the pork gyros and pork souvlakis.

Pork is almost always my favorite. Lucky’s does it right, don’t get me wrong. I can’t quite pinpoint why but the chicken here was somehow even better than the pork. Whether it’s their own special seasoning blend or the way they slow-cook it on the rotisserie, it brings out the flavor and juiciness of the meat in a big way. You’ll have to try both and let me know what you think.

A local Santorini travel site states Lucky’s has been around for years and favors the chicken as well. It’s clear the years of experience at Lucky’s have allowed them to master these dishes in a big way. Grab one or two and wander or stand at one of their high-top tables or the bar and have an ice cold local Alfa draft beer, like I did on my second visit. You won’t be disappointed.

Fun Gyros Facts

• Gyros is singular in Greek and is pronounced YEE-ros. Plural is gyri, or YEE-ree.
• By some accounts, the history of the gyro dates back to time of Alexander the Great when men would use their sharp knives to carve meat off rotisseries.
• Gyros is Greek for “spin” or “rotate”.

Tips When Ordering Gyros

• Gyros, gyros sandwich and gyros pita are often used interchangeably.
• Souvlakis (plural of souvlakia) refers to the small pieces of meat grilled on a skewer, but can be ordered as the meat in a gyros, gyros sandwich or gyros pita.
• These interchangeable words can be confusing. Make sure to indicate that you want a gyro (or pita, or sandwich) “to go” and not “a plate” which is generally served as a dine-in option and is more expensive.

Where to Find the Best Gyros in Santorini: Lucky’s Souvlakis

Lucky’s is open seasonally from March through November. I’ve included a map below.

Address: Dekigala St. in Fira, Santorini, Greece 84700

Phone: +30 22860 22003

Recap of the Best Gyros in Santorini

Santorini is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever had the pleasure to visit. I hope you’re able to make it there one day to enjoy the beautiful sunsets, beaches and friendly people. While you’re there, stop by Lucky’s for a gyros and let me know if you think they offer the best gyros in Santorini! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Eviva! (Cheers in Greek)

– Cam

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