Who We Are
At The Karpos, we believe that exceptional dining experiences should be accessible to everyone. Our mission is to democratize the world of food guides by delivering Michelin-level thoroughness with an approachable twist. Whether you’re a traveler, or local food enthusiast, we’re here to spotlight culinary gems that are both high in quality and affordable.
The name “Karpos” comes from the Greek word for “fruit,” symbolizing growth, abundance, and the rewards of hard work. Just as fruit represents the harvest of care and cultivation, The Karpos Dining Guide embodies the thoughtful curation of outstanding dining experiences. It reflects our purpose: to make the fruits of culinary excellence accessible to all.
Through our revolutionary rating system, we provide clear, trustworthy recommendations to make dining decisions effortless. From uncovering the best dishes in a city to highlighting standout local favorites, Karpos ensures that every meal is a memorable one.
Starting in Madrid, our initial guides will focus on curated recommendations like the Best Restaurants for Lunch near My Campus and Best Madrileño Experience, designed to meet the needs of diverse diners. With plans to expand regionally and globally, Karpos is building a community-driven platform supported by expert insights, community reviews, and data aggregation of reviews and accommodates already in existence
Join us on this journey to celebrate approachable dining, one remarkable meal at a time.
Meet Our Founder
Aryeris Polycarpou has a background in leveraging analytics to create seamless user experiences, having led Digital Optimization Programs in the hospitality and food & beverage industries. Now pursuing graduate studies in Madrid, he’s combining his expertise with his lifelong passion for great food that doesn’t have to break the bank.
A longtime enthusiast of guides such as Guía Repsol and Michelin, Arie appreciates the meticulous attention to quality and detail they bring to dining. But let’s be real—most people can’t regularly afford three-star restaurants. Inspired by his own experiences dining out with his wife during graduate school, he understands the importance of accessibility—finding restaurants that aren’t just exceptional, but also within a price range that allows for more frequent enjoyment. That’s the heart of Karpos Dining Guide: bringing Michelin-level thoroughness and trustworthiness to restaurants people can actually visit on a regular basis.
From street-side gyros to foie gras, Arie believes that every meal has a story—and that a well-made dish, no matter the cuisine or price, deserves to be celebrated. With Karpos, he’s building a food guide for the everyman, one that cuts through the noise and makes finding incredible dining experiences easier, smarter, and more rewarding.
