Tavern "Telonio"
Visitors say
Great little place for fresh fish,family operation, I came back 3 years later have not been disappointed,the food and service was fantastic, thank you
We’d been nearby to a beautiful secluded beach and stopped by here for drinks . Nice little Taverna in a quiet spot. Decent service and nice friendly lady helping me out with my rubbish Greek effort.
About
Tucked away near the quiet settlement of Aspropotamos, Tavern Telonio takes its evocative name from the Greek word for customs house, hinting at the maritime and mercantile history that shaped so many corners of Lesvos. The tavern draws on this sense of place, offering a setting where the rhythms of the island feel close at hand — whether that means the sound of the sea carried on the breeze, the shade of an olive tree overhead, or the unhurried pace of a meal that stretches well into the afternoon.
The kitchen at Telonio leans into the honest, straightforward cooking that defines the best of Greek taverna tradition. Expect fresh seafood when the catch allows, grilled meats, seasonal vegetables dressed simply with local olive oil, and the kind of mezedes that invite a slow, shared table. The food here is rooted in what the island produces — Lesvos is celebrated for the quality of its olive oil, its ouzo, and its sardines, and a meal at a place like this is one of the most direct ways to taste that heritage.
For visitors exploring the inland villages and quieter roads of Lesvos away from the more tourist-trodden northern coast, Telonio offers a genuine local stop — a place to rest, eat well, and get a feel for the island beyond its postcard moments. The combination of a distinctive name, a tucked-away location, and the warm hospitality that characterizes family-run tavernas in this part of Greece makes it well worth seeking out.
Before you go
What to expect
The name alone — customs house — sets the tone: this is a taverna with a genuine sense of place. Meals unfold slowly over shared mezedes, grilled fish, and sardines dressed in local olive oil, with little urgency to move on. The family-run warmth and tucked-away setting make it feel like a discovery rather than a stop on any itinerary.
Best time to visit
Late spring through early autumn is ideal; July and August bring heat but also the freshest summer catch.
How to get there
Aspropotamos is roughly 30–40 minutes from Mytilene by car, heading north through the island's interior. The roads are narrow as you approach the village, so allow a little extra time.
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Visitor Reviews
EMMANOUEL PETINOS
October 2025
Great little place for fresh fish,family operation, I came back 3 years later have not been disappointed,the food and service was fantastic, thank you
Vassilia S
September 2025
Food was ok, expensive and just ok what was stunning was the view one step from the sea .. staff was as very friendly ..
Lulu Fb
August 2025
Lovely food, lovely staff, good prices. 100% recommend!
Enis Kadriu
July 2025
Great atmosphere and good location. Although, unresponsive and uncoordinated front of house did not make this, a pleasant experience. We were waiting for more than 30 minutes just to have our table set up! We left after further 10 minutes as the service was still not responsive! Leadership was non existent amongst the staff. Such a pity for a good location with lots of potential...
Matthew Galer
September 2024
We’d been nearby to a beautiful secluded beach and stopped by here for drinks . Nice little Taverna in a quiet spot. Decent service and nice friendly lady helping me out with my rubbish Greek effort.
Ina Gont
August 2024
Unfortunately the staff is uncoordinated. If there are more visitors in the restaurant, you should be prepared for a long wait. They also forgot about our main course order. So we had to wait even longer. It was annoying. Fortunately the prices are not high, delicious fresh food, friendly service,great view.
Aurora U.K
August 2024
Slightly underwhelming as it was very quiet. just two tables in a space that could easily accommodate another 30 tables. The baby in the family took away all the attention from our food order which eventually arrived and was worth the wait.
Mareci Elisabeta
July 2024
We had a wonderful time. Great food, place and location
Akis Tsit
April 2024
This family-owned taverna with a spectacular view of the sea and the delicious traditional dishes truly deserves five stars for the authentic Greek experience it provides!
Claire Steka
August 2022
I keep coming back there for years. Simple, traditional and tasty food. They only serve fresh fish-try the triangle Fish-it’s a must!
Owner Response
Thank you so much for your rate ! We're glad to see you again 🙏😊
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