The guide’s ranking · Rhodes

Best Simi Shrimp
in Rhodes

Simi Shrimp is the most sought-after seafood delicacy in the Dodecanese, originating from the nearby island of Symi but a staple of every high-quality Rhodian fish taverna. These tiny, popcorn-sized shrimp are fried whole in extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with sea salt and sometimes a hint of chili or garlic. Because their shells are so thin and delicate, they are eaten entirely whole—head, tail, and shell—offering a sweet, concentrated ocean flavor and a satisfyingly crisp texture. Order them as **'Symiako garidaki'**. The trap is "large frozen shrimp" being sold as Symi shrimp; the real ones must be tiny (no more than 2-3cm) and should never be peeled. Expect to pay €12–€18 for a generous sharing plate.

Συμιακό Γαριδάκι (Symiako Garidaki) · say “Simi Shrimp” ·

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Why locals care

Simi Shrimp is the most sought-after seafood delicacy in the Dodecanese, originating from the nearby island of Symi but a staple of every high-quality Rhodian fish taverna. These tiny, popcorn-sized shrimp are fried whole in extra virgin olive oil and seasoned with sea salt and sometimes a hint of chili or garlic. Because their shells are so thin and delicate, they are eaten entirely whole—head, tail, and shell—offering a sweet, concentrated ocean flavor and a satisfyingly crisp texture. Order them as **'Symiako garidaki'**. The trap is "large frozen shrimp" being sold as Symi shrimp; the real ones must be tiny (no more than 2-3cm) and should never be peeled. Expect to pay €12–€18 for a generous sharing plate.

Ranked Simi Shrimp stops in Rhodes

Nireas

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Go: Evening; located in a beautiful, shaded square.

Price: $$

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Pizanias

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Go: Lunch; one of the oldest and most respected fish tavernas in the city.

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Kozas

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Go: Sunset dinner on the beach; 30km south of Rhodes Town.

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Hatzikelis

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Go: 21:00 in the quiet courtyard near the ruins of the Church of the Virgin.

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Mavrikos

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Go: Late lunch (15:00) after visiting the Acropolis.

Price: $$$

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Ouzeri Hermes

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Go: Late afternoon for raki and meze; a favorite with local Old Town residents.

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Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa

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Verdict: A popular waterfront location to enjoy a cold beer and a hot plate of Simi shrimp while watching the boats.Waterfront

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Stegna Star

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Verdict: A classic beachside taverna where the pitaroudia are light, golden-brown, and packed with fresh mint and local onions.Stegna Beach

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Louis Restaurant

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Go: Evening.

Price: $$

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7 Thalasses

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Verdict: Their modern menu features a high-end interpretation of Simi shrimp, often paired with creative local dips.New Town

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Meltemi

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Verdict: A simple and honest ouzeri where the shrimp are prepared exactly as they should be—crispy and piping hot.Waterfront

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Kallithea

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Verdict: A neighborhood favorite that serves a very traditional and generous portion of Simi shrimp to its local following.Nea Alikarnassos

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Taverna Kostas

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Go: Lunch; a simple, high-quality spot popular with the local Old Town workers.

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Agia Pelagia Beach Tavernas

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Verdict: Many seaside spots serve Simi shrimp as a quick, flavorful meze for beachgoers in the late afternoon.various

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Drosia

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Verdict: A popular family spot where the moussaka is a reliable staple, always fresh and served in satisfyingly large portions.Ialysos

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Rhodes Central Market (Nea Agora) Tavernas

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Verdict: Several small tavernas in the market serve moussaka as a daily staple for market workers and savvy locals.New Town

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Loukoulos

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Verdict: A refined setting that serves an exceptionally high-quality version of Simi shrimp, highlighting the purity of the ingredients.New Town

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Kiriakos

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Verdict: Their traditional meze selection is top-notch, and the Simi shrimp are a must-try for any serious Dodecanese foodie.New Town

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Athali

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Verdict: A specialist that provides a perfectly crispy and healthy plate of Simi shrimp to balance their richer meat dishes.Old Town

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Pantopoleio Gefseon

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Verdict: Serves Simi shrimp as part of a high-quality meze platter, allowing you to taste them alongside artisanal local products.New Town

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