A passion for authentic Greek cuisine
Discover the story behind Gaia GastroTavern, our philosophy, and the dedicated team who brings our vision to life.
Gaia GastroTavern was born from a deep passion for Greek culinary traditions and a desire to share them with the world. Established in Skiathos in 2025, our restaurant has become a beloved destination for locals and travelers seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Inspired by the rich gastronomic heritage of Greece, we created a space where time-honored recipes meet contemporary cooking techniques. Each dish tells a story of our land, our sea, and our people. The name 'Gaia' itself reflects our deep connection to the earth and our commitment to showcasing the natural bounty of our island home.
Our journey began when Chef Alexandros Karavasilis came to Skiathos after years of culinary training and experience in some of Europe's most prestigious kitchens. His vision was simple yet ambitious: to create a restaurant that would honor the traditional flavors of Greek cuisine while incorporating the innovative techniques and presentation styles he had mastered during his travels.
The early days of Gaia were marked by countless hours spent building relationships with local farmers, fishermen, and artisan producers. Chef Alexandros personally visited olive groves, cheese-making facilities, and fishing boats to source the finest ingredients for our menu. This hands-on approach to sourcing has remained a cornerstone of our philosophy, ensuring that every ingredient that enters our kitchen meets our exacting standards for quality and authenticity.
Over the years, we have witnessed the transformation of Skiathos's culinary landscape, and we take pride in having played a role in elevating the island's reputation as a destination for exceptional dining. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition from food critics, travel publications, and most importantly, the loyalty of our guests who return year after year to experience the warmth of our hospitality and the excellence of our cuisine.
At Gaia, we believe that exceptional food begins with exceptional ingredients. We work directly with local farmers, fishermen, and producers to source the freshest seasonal produce, capturing the essence of Skiathos and the surrounding Aegean islands.
Our commitment to sustainability means we prioritize eco-friendly practices throughout our operations, from responsible seafood sourcing to minimizing food waste and using biodegradable packaging for takeaway orders. This philosophy extends to every aspect of our operation, including our energy-efficient kitchen equipment, our composting program, and our partnerships with suppliers who share our environmental values.
We believe that great cuisine is not just about taste, but about creating a connection between the diner and the land that produced their meal. Every tomato on your plate was ripened under the Greek sun, every olive oil was pressed from trees that have stood for generations, and every piece of seafood was caught in the pristine waters that surround our island. This farm-to-table approach ensures not only the highest quality ingredients but also supports the local economy and preserves traditional farming and fishing practices.
Our culinary philosophy is rooted in the concept of 'philoxenia' – the ancient Greek tradition of hospitality that treats every guest as a gift from the gods. This means that every meal at Gaia is prepared and served with the same care and attention we would give to welcoming friends into our own home. We take time to understand our guests' preferences, dietary restrictions, and special occasions, tailoring each dining experience to create lasting memories.
Head Chef & Founder
With over 20 years of culinary experience, Chef Alexandros brings his profound knowledge of Greek cuisine and Mediterranean flavors to every dish at Gaia. After training in Athens and working in renowned restaurants across Europe, he came to Skiathos to create a dining experience that celebrates the island's culinary heritage with a contemporary approach.
"The most authentic Greek food I've had outside of my grandmother's kitchen. Every dish tells a story of tradition and passion."— Maria K., Athens
"A magical dining experience in Skiathos! The fresh seafood and attentive service made our anniversary dinner unforgettable."— James & Sarah, London
"Gaia perfectly balances traditional Greek flavors with modern presentation. The tzatziki and grilled octopus are not to be missed!"— Pierre L., Food Critic
Open Daily: 6:30 PM - 12:00 AM