Just 100 metres from the seafront, along the main promenade of Hanioti, you’ll find Restaurant Xenaki – a culinary destination in Halkidiki with a story rooted in family tradition, hospitality, and a long-awaited return home.

Although the restaurant only opened its doors in 2024, it has already built a loyal following. Guests return not only for the food, but also for the genuine warmth and personal attention that make every visit feel special.

This summer, Xenaki is introducing a concept never before seen in Northern Greece: the Seafood Bowl. This exciting new addition brings together some of the sea’s finest flavours – including premium shellfish and crustaceans – gently cooked with vegetables in a rich, flavourful broth. It is a dish that leaves a lasting impression from the very first taste.

A new beginning inspired by a return home

Behind the venture is an experienced restaurateur originally from Edessa. After spending many years living and working in Germany, and coming from a family with a long-standing background in the restaurant industry, he made the decision to return to Greece and begin a new chapter.

Hanioti entered the picture almost by chance, through a personal connection, at a time when the premises were waiting for their next owner. What followed was the perfect opportunity to create something new while bringing years of experience and passion back home.

The name “Xenaki” itself reflects that journey. Inspired by the well-known song “Xenaki Eimai Kai Tha ‘Rtho” by Yiannis Kalatzis, it captures the emotions of someone who has spent years away from their homeland and finally finds their way back.

Quality without pretension

The philosophy at Xenaki is refreshingly simple: excellent food, fair prices, and generous portions that ensure nobody leaves hungry.

The menu combines fresh fish, seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and carefully prepared meat specialities, all without unnecessary culinary gimmicks.

Among the most popular choices are the restaurant’s signature kontosouvli, seasoned with its own distinctive blend of spices, and the succulent lamb chops, known for their unique flavour profile. Traditional favourites such as moussaka and kleftiko remain firm customer favourites for those seeking authentic Greek comfort food.

Guests can also enjoy perfectly grilled soutzoukakia, premium-quality sausages served with expertly cooked potatoes, as well as a selection of appetisers including grilled kefalotyri cheese and homemade dips.

Northern Greece’s first seafood bowl experience

The restaurant’s newest project may well become one of Halkidiki’s most talked-about dining experiences this summer.

Xenaki is introducing Northern Greece’s first Seafood Bowl (Seafood Boil) – a dining concept that, until now, has largely been associated with restaurants in Athens.

The dish features generous bowls filled with shellfish and seafood, including prawns, crayfish, mussels, crab and king crab, accompanied by boiled baby potatoes, sweetcorn, aromatic seasonings and flavour-packed sauces. Designed for sharing, it perfectly complements the relaxed, sociable atmosphere of a Greek summer.

The concept originates from the traditional seafood boils of the southern United States, where the meal is often enjoyed as part of a festive social gathering centred around food, family and friends.

Fine wines, tsipouro and summer evenings

The wine list includes the restaurant’s own Malagousia label, produced by a winery in Souroti, alongside carefully selected wines from renowned Greek estates including Gerovassiliou Estate in Epanomi and Sigalas Estate in Santorini.

Guests can also enjoy traditional tsipouro from Edessa, available both with and without aniseed.

Authentic hospitality in the heart of Hanioti

Restaurant Xenaki has quickly established itself as a trusted choice for visitors seeking authentic Greek cuisine, genuine hospitality and consistently high quality.

With its welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and family-run character, the restaurant offers an experience that goes beyond a typical tourist meal. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff, generous portions and the warm, family-oriented environment that has become increasingly rare in highly touristic destinations.

For those looking for something more memorable than just another restaurant visit this summer, Xenaki has already found its own distinctive place on the culinary map of Halkidiki.

Useful Information

Opening Hours: Daily, 1:00 pm – 11:30 pm, from May through October.

Reservations: Strongly recommended during the peak season, particularly from mid-June to September.

Parking: Ample parking is available in the surrounding area.