File photo: a lionfish in Greek waters. Photo: Pierre mkrs / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Santorini Serves Lionfish to 300+ Diners in Guinness World Record Bid

25 Oct 2026, 00:03 by Kosta Papadopoulos · Greek City Times

Santorini attracted 370 people to a lionfish tasting event on Thursday, 22 October 2026, as organisers sought to set a Guinness World Records record while raising awareness of the invasive fish threatening Mediterranean marine ecosystems according to the University of the Aegean.

During the lionfish tasting record attempt, every guest tried at least three different recipes. Chefs from Greece and abroad cooked the dishes alongside restaurant professionals.

Why a lionfish tasting record matters

The night formed part of the GuardIAS project, an EU-funded research programme that the University of the Aegean coordinates. It centred on Pterois miles, an alien species spreading across the Mediterranean while threatening marine ecosystems.

In particular, organisers wanted to show how a species that challenges the sea can become a creative ingredient in the kitchen. Besides chefs, fishers, representatives of local bodies and Santorini residents joined the evening.

Science, gastronomy and the local community worked together to protect the environment, the university said. Strong attendance proved that awareness campaigns can become a lively, hands-on experience, it said.

The lionfish tasting record bid also highlighted new ways to use the fish in Greek cooking. Its main message was that tackling alien species requires cooperation, information, fresh ideas and active public involvement.

A predator from the Indo-Pacific

Native to the Indo-Pacific, the lionfish entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal, according to the GuardIAS lionfish case study. Its 17 venomous spines make it a hazard for swimmers, divers and fishers.

Because few natural predators keep it in check, populations grow quickly. In addition, researchers on the project run lionfish removals with volunteer divers in Santorini and Crete.

Back in 2019, conservationists urged Greek chefs to cook it to curb its spread. Greek waters face other invaders too, including the toxic silver-cheeked pufferfish.

After the tasting, the evening closed with music in the outdoor space of Santo 1911.

(Source: Ta Nea)

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