Maria's Tavern

Maria's Tavern is a traditional Greek taverna on Acropoleos street, the main street of Lindos village on the east coast of Rhodes, Greece. As the name of the street suggests, it lies on the route that visitors follow up to the Acropolis of Lindos, which is crowned by the ancient temple of Athena Lindia and the Knights' fortifications. That position makes it a convenient stop before or after the climb, in a village of whitewashed houses, narrow stone lanes and pebbled courtyards that is a protected historic settlement. The cuisine is traditional Greek, with grilled meats and Greek salad the named dishes. These are the standard taverna staples of the island, served with bread, dips and vegetable starters. Prices are in the middle bracket, typical for Lindos, where the tourist setting pushes prices above those in inland villages. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with casual dress and a moderate noise level, as the lane outside is busy with foot traffic during the day. The drinks list follows custom, with Greek house wine, beer, soft drinks and ouzo. Reservations are taken by phone on +30 22441 10305; booking is useful for dinner in July and August, while lunch outside the peak months is generally walk-in. Lindos is largely pedestrian, with steep stone paths and steps, and the village lies about 50 kilometres from Rhodes town, reached by bus, taxi or car, with parking at the edge of the village and a walk in. Some visitors avoid the midday heat by climbing the Acropolis early and eating afterwards. Evening is calmer once day-trip coaches have left, and the whitewashed lanes are atmospheric after dark.