A charming bar-restaurant right on the Little Venice waterfront in Mykonos Town, with tables perched above the sea waves and spectacular sunset views over the windmills. More famous for its cocktails and sunset atmosphere, but the mezedes and seafood are genuinely good.
Mikri Venetia — Little Venice — is one of Mykonos Town's most recognisable addresses and the bar-restaurant that most completely embodies the neighbourhood it occupies: a row of medieval sea-captains' mansions where the ground floors have been converted to bars and restaurants with balconies and tables extending directly over the sea. Waves lap against the foundations at high sea state; in calm weather the water is turquoise and still below the terrace. The restaurant and bar is primarily known as a sunset destination — the position looks directly west across the Aegean and the windmills are visible to the north, producing one of the defining Mykonos compositions. The food menu offers seafood mezedes, fresh oysters, and a small selection of more substantial dishes; the cocktail list is the more considered offering, with original preparations alongside classics. Prices across both food and drink are high even by Mykonos standards, reflecting the unique waterfront position. The restaurant fills at sunset and operates as much as a social scene as a dining experience — the terrace is the destination, and drinks rather than dinner are the primary language. Reservations are strongly advised for any sit-down service in July and August; the best waterfront positions book out well in advance.
Signature dishes
- Seafood Mezedes Platter — €22
- Santorini Sunset Cocktail — €16
- Fresh Oysters — €24
Good to know
- Known for
- Iconic sunset cocktails perched over the Aegean at Little Venice
- Hours
- 11 AM - 2 AM
Location
Little Venice, Mykonos Town, 846 00
37.4448, 25.3268 View on map
Highlights
- Balcony tables extending over the Aegean — the most dramatic dining position in Mykonos Town
- Facing west over the famous Mykonos windmills for the island's most iconic sunset view
- Fresh oysters — the most requested food order at a location that is as much bar as restaurant
- Seafood mezedes platter combining the best of the Aegean catch at the water's edge
- The defining Mykonian cocktail destination — sunset drinks here are a rite of passage on the island
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at least an hour before sunset to secure a waterfront seat — competition is intense from 7 PM onwards.
- Budget for high prices; the premium is for the position, not just the product.
- The oysters are worth the order — they are one of the few food items that fully matches the setting.
- Order a cocktail before dinner rather than committing to a full meal — the bar experience is the primary draw.
- In very windy conditions (the meltemi blows from the north) the waterfront terrace can be uncomfortable; the interior is the alternative.
When to visit
Sunset from May through September — particularly the hour before and during sunset when the light on the windmills and sea is at its most spectacular. The atmosphere builds from around 7 PM through the evening.
Accessibility
The restaurant is accessed via the narrow lane along the Little Venice waterfront. The terrace balconies extend over the sea, which creates a raised edge; guests with significant mobility limitations should note the terrace layout. The cobblestone lane approach is uneven.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mikri Venetia primarily a bar or a restaurant?
Both — but the cocktail and drinks programme is more central to the experience than the food menu. Most guests come for sunset drinks and mezedes rather than a full dinner.
How early should sunset tables be reserved?
For July and August, advance booking of several days to a week is needed for waterfront positions. May, June, and September are more relaxed.
Is the food good enough to justify a full dinner?
The mezedes and oysters are genuinely well prepared, but the kitchen's range is deliberately limited. For a full multi-course dinner, other nearby restaurants offer more considered cooking; Mikri Venetia's strength is the setting and the cocktail programme.
Is the neighbourhood of Little Venice safe to walk at night?
Yes — the Little Venice waterfront is one of Mykonos Town's most animated and well-lit areas. The promenade continues toward the windmills and is pleasant for an evening walk.