Gounaris
Visitors say
This was the best ice cream I’ve ever had — real bitter chocolate and mango flavors, not drowned in sugar. It was the real deal.
Probably one of the best pavlovas and red velvet tarts I've tried definitely recommend you try their ice cream, it's the best chill summer spot to cool down
About
Tucked into the heart of Mytilini, the island's vibrant capital, Gounaris is one of those local institutions that earns its place in a visitor's itinerary not through spectacle but through quiet, consistent excellence. Mytilini itself is a city of considerable character — a working port town with neoclassical mansions, a sprawling waterfront, and a café culture that stretches long into the warm evenings — and businesses like Gounaris are woven into the daily fabric of that life. Stopping here offers a genuine glimpse into how locals actually live and eat, away from the tourist-oriented offerings that cluster around the harbor.
Whether you find yourself drawn in by the window display or simply following the lead of the Mytilinians who queue here without hesitation, Gounaris rewards the curious traveler. The Aegean island tradition of craft and care in food and drink runs deep on Lesvos, and this establishment reflects that ethos. It is the kind of place where the product speaks for itself and where the unhurried, hospitable rhythm of Greek island commerce makes even a brief stop feel like a small event. For visitors exploring Mytilini on foot — which is very much the right way to explore it — Gounaris makes for a natural and satisfying pause.
Before you go
What to expect
Step inside and you'll find yourself among locals going about their day — unhurried, familiar with the staff, clearly regulars. The shop carries the easy confidence of a place that doesn't need to advertise: the window display does the work, and the quality keeps people coming back. It's a brief, satisfying pause rather than a sit-down experience — the kind of stop that tells you more about a city than any guidebook.
Best time to visit
Gounaris runs year-round as a Mytilini staple; spring and autumn feel most local, before summer visitor numbers build up.
How to get there
It sits in the heart of Mytilini, well within walking distance of the waterfront and the central market — no car needed if you're already anywhere in town.
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Visitor Reviews
Ahmet Ovacık
September 2025
Very very yummy ice cream and cookies. It is so clean.
Beril Akaydın
August 2025
This was the best ice cream I’ve ever had — real bitter chocolate and mango flavors, not drowned in sugar. It was the real deal.
Michelle Ritman
July 2025
Had the best ice cream here yesterday- will probably be back later today to have another!
İsmail Güngör
June 2025
Gounaris: Big portions but flavor a bit underwhelming At Gounaris, the portions are really big. One scoop is 2 euros and even a single scoop feels like almost two. The cone was fresh and tasty, not stale at all, which is a nice detail. The staff were friendly, smiling, and helpful, making you feel welcome. However, the ice cream flavor did not fully meet expectations. Despite the generous size, the taste felt a bit flat. Especially with the pistachio flavor, we couldn’t really get that strong, distinct pistachio taste. It’s worth trying if you want big portions, but those looking for strong flavors should keep their expectations lower.
claudia croitor
June 2025
Probably one of the best pavlovas and red velvet tarts I've tried definitely recommend you try their ice cream, it's the best chill summer spot to cool down
Mathias Magnussen
June 2025
We just had the most wonderful taste experience at Gounaris! Perfectly placed by the harbour with kind staff and delicious cakes! I can definately recommend the Pavlova. The staff even offered us an extra chocolate treat. We will definitely come back!
Pamir Çerçi
August 2024
I had the pleasure of enjoying some truly delectable ice cream during my visit to Lesvos Island. The Black Forest, mango, and blood orange flavors were particularly delightful. The staff was exceptionally friendly and welcoming, and the location of the establishment was quite convenient.
Erol Cetin
November 2023
Very very delicious almond cookies. We tried various types of their products and all were remarkably tasty. Nice people, great products. many thanks
suheda kaya
June 2023
When you ask for tea they serve an intense mint flavoured one without letting you know. In defence they say “you said just tea, you did not ask for a black tea and this is a gelato place”. I also can’t make a recommendation on neither their artificially flavoured gelatos nor their panna cottas that were just as bad. Bonus is their rude attitude
Vasilis Asmanis
December 2022
Amazing handmade ice creams in normal prices. Very good service.
