Jaipur Palace Naxos

Jaipur Palace is one of the very few Indian restaurants operating on the Greek islands, sitting along Leoforos Naxou Eggaron — the road that runs north out of Naxos Town toward the village of Engares. While most dining on Naxos leans hard into grilled seafood and Cycladic mezze, this spot carves out a different space, bringing the spice-forward cooking of Rajasthan to an island better known for its local graviera cheese.

With a 4.4 rating across 87 reviews, it has built a loyal following among visitors looking for something other than another plate of fresh calamari — and among island residents who make the trip out specifically for it.

What to Expect

The setting takes its cues from the palatial architecture of Jaipur — expect warm colors and decorative touches that mark it clearly apart from the whitewashed minimalism typical of Cycladic tavernas. The menu centers on traditional northern Indian cooking: biryani appears to be a standout dish based on visitor feedback, alongside the broader repertoire of curries, tandoor preparations, and spiced rice dishes you'd associate with Rajasthani and Mughal-influenced cuisine. Portions are substantial and the kitchen works with aromatic spice blends that don't get toned down for a Greek palate — this is the real thing, not a diluted tourist version.

The restaurant is suited to couples, families, and groups who want a break from Greek food mid-trip without leaving the island.

How to Get There

Jaipur Palace sits on Leoforos Naxou Eggaron, the main road heading north-west from Naxos Town toward Engares. By car or scooter, it's a straightforward drive of a few minutes from the Chora waterfront — follow the road out of town in the direction of Engares and look for the restaurant on your left. Street parking is generally available along this stretch of road.

If you're staying in Naxos Town without a vehicle, a taxi from the port or the main square will get you there quickly and cheaply. There is no scheduled bus that stops directly at the door, so independent transport is the practical choice for the return journey, especially after dinner.

Best Time to Visit

Jaipur Palace operates year-round, or at least across the main tourist season from spring through autumn — confirm current hours directly before visiting, as seasonal restaurants on Naxos sometimes adjust their schedules in shoulder months. For dinner, arriving before 9 pm is sensible in peak summer (July and August), when the island's restaurants fill up quickly and tables at a well-reviewed spot like this can run short. Lunch tends to be quieter and more relaxed.

If you want the full atmosphere of the place rather than a rushed table, a mid-week evening visit outside the August peak is ideal.

Tips for Visiting

• Call ahead in high season. The phone number is +30 694 643 4335. Even informal reservations help avoid a wait at a restaurant this size.
• Ask about the biryani. It draws the most consistent praise in visitor reviews and is the dish to anchor your order around.
• Come with a group if you can. Indian food rewards ordering across several dishes, and the menu's range is better explored with multiple people at the table.
• Bring cash as a backup. Card acceptance at smaller island restaurants can be unreliable; it's worth checking when you call.
• Don't assume Western-adapted spicing. If you prefer milder heat, mention it when ordering — but don't expect the kitchen to default to it.

What's Nearby

The Engares road corridor is primarily residential and agricultural — this isn't a strip of back-to-back restaurants. The surrounding area gives way to olive groves and the quiet village of Engares a few kilometres further north, known for its traditional architecture and a small natural spring. Naxos Town's main port, waterfront cafes, and the Kastro neighbourhood are only a short drive back toward the Chora, making Jaipur Palace easy to pair with an evening walk along the seafront before or after your meal.