Dining

There are no dining facilities at the cave itself, but the nearby town of Sami has plenty of choices, as does the even closer village of Karavomilos where you can eat at the Karavomilos Taverna seated between the lake and the sea and watch the waterwheel spin lazily while you dine on fresh seafood and local beer and wine! A brightly painted blue and white boat on the shore marks the spot.

Between Karavomilos and the cave there is also the Melissani Restaurant & Snack Bar which has a friendly local owner who will cook any food you ask, and make your stay as pleasant as possible.  With a large pool very pleasant owner named Elias Favros  who will cook anything. A large swimming pool with water jets is beside the restaurant and for a small fee you can have all day access to the pool.  A great way to relax after spending time at the cave.

In Sami try the Il Familia which is proud of their family traditions, with the walls lined with historic photographs.  Consider eating at the Restaurant Dolphins which is right on the harbour and allows you to view the boats as you sit under the awning to enjoy your food.

Just 5km outside the town north along the coast is Agia Paraskevi Beach Restaurant, which is open all season. Set in a green garden area the dining room overlooks the sea and the bay. The chef and his team have over 20 years experience in providing local foods with a wide selection of local wines. They also host weddings and special event