What is Gyros Pita?
Gyros pita (γύρος πίτα) is one of Greece's most iconic dishes. It is made from meat — usually pork or chicken — cooked on a large vertical rotisserie. As the spit turns, the outer layers cook slowly, developing a golden, crispy crust while the inside stays juicy. Thin slices are then carved off and placed inside a soft, warm pita bread with fresh tomato, sliced onion, hand-cut fries and creamy tzatziki.
The result? A generous, flavour-packed wrap that is both filling and affordable. At Gerakos Souvlaki — the best souvlaki in Santorini — we serve pork gyros, chicken gyros and a mix of both.
What is Souvlaki (Kalamaki)?
Souvlaki (σουβλάκι), also called kalamaki (καλαμάκι), refers to small cubes of marinated meat threaded onto a metal or wooden skewer and grilled directly over high heat. The char on the outside and the juicy inside is what makes it irresistible.
You can eat souvlaki straight off the skewer as a snack, or wrapped in pita bread with the classic toppings. At Gerakos we offer pork and chicken skewers, grilled to order every single day.
Key Differences: Gyros vs Souvlaki
| Feature | Gyros Pita 🥙 | Souvlaki (Kalamaki) 🍢 |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking method | Vertical rotisserie (spit) | Direct flame grill, on a skewer |
| Meat texture | Thin slices, slightly crispy | Cubes, charred outside / juicy inside |
| How served | In pita bread with toppings | On skewer, or in pita |
| Best for | A full, satisfying meal | A quick snack or lighter portion |
| Available meats | Pork, Chicken, Mix | Pork, Chicken |
Which Should You Order in Santorini?
If it's your first time, go for the pork gyros pita — it's the quintessential Greek street food experience. The combination of juicy rotisserie meat, warm pita, tzatziki and fries is hard to beat.
If you want something lighter or you prefer grilled meat with more char, the pork souvlaki skewer is the way to go. You can also order it wrapped in pita for a more complete meal.
For the ultimate experience, try both! At Gerakos Souvlaki in Santorini, our Mix Grill platter combines skewers, gyros and grilled meats for those who can't decide.
What Makes Gerakos Souvlaki Different?
Not all souvlaki is created equal. At Gerakos Souvlaki in Santorini, we use quality Greek meats, fresh ingredients sourced daily, and traditional recipes. No shortcuts. Every order is grilled fresh to your order — you will taste the difference immediately.
- Fresh pork and chicken, seasoned with Greek spices
- Homemade tzatziki from Greek yogurt and fresh cucumber
- Soft pita bread, freshly toasted for every order
- Hand-cut fries, fried to order
- Open every day 12:00–00:00
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gyros the same as döner kebab?
They are similar in cooking method (vertical rotisserie) but different in seasoning, meat preparation and serving style. Greek gyros uses Greek spices and is served with tzatziki, tomato, onion and fries in a pita — not the same as a Turkish döner.
Is souvlaki healthy?
Compared to many fast foods, souvlaki is relatively healthy — it's grilled (not fried) meat with fresh vegetables and yogurt-based tzatziki. The pita adds carbs but the overall meal is balanced and satisfying.
Where is the best place to eat gyros in Santorini?
Gerakos Souvlaki is consistently recommended as the best souvlaki and gyros place in Santorini. Open daily 12:00–00:00, call +30 2286 030455.