Mediterranean cuisine restaurants Crete

The terrace of this establishment, located 2 minutes from the Aristea Hotel, is almost on the water. The restaurant's winter room is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the village, giving the place a sought-after authentic character. The cuisine is traditional, especially the fresh fish specialities, which are renowned: the varied fish platter, shellfish and seafood salad, lamb stew, veal stew with vegetables, grilled prawns... are among the favourite dishes. Very reasonable prices.

Charm and romance guaranteed. This is the restaurant of the Hotel Pallazzo Di Corina. It has the Greek "organic" label. On the large terrace in the square you can taste, among other things, the following house specialties, depending on the season: "Mitato" lamb with honey, yoghurt and thyme, saganaki kavourma, boureki (meat puff pastry) or stuffed zucchini flowers. Also a la carte, fish, shellfish and seafood, a mix of traditional Cretan cuisine and more creative and contemporary options. Professional service and friendly atmosphere.

Romanticism guaranteed with a unique sunset in this fish restaurant on the beach. Very good address with a large and beautiful terrace by the sea. Lunch and dinner are served in an idyllic setting. Here we are very far from the Nordic breweries along the main street higher up in a bewildering noise. The establishment also has a cocktail bar. You can relax while admiring the exceptional view.

This tavern is housed in a very old forge, hence the name Sideradiko (forge). Renovated but retaining all the charm of an old workshop, it offers tasty dishes of successful traditional cuisine: goat's cheese, chicken or vegetables are excellent. Enjoy snails with Cretan couscous and tomato sauce, stew and, above all, yoghurt with honey for dessert. High-quality food in pleasant surroundings, with impeccable service and reasonable prices.

Located in the heart of Hania's historic center, this tastefully decorated all-day café/bistro, distinguished by its white tablecloths and courteous staff, offers a varied range of dishes for an excellent breakfast or brunch, lunch or dinner for couples or friends in search of tranquility, good taste and good food. The establishment also offers relaxing moments to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail. The pastries on offer (strawberry tart with a scoop of ice cream, among others) are also very good.

This establishment on Akti Tombazi, next to the former Grand Arsenal, is easily spotted by its wooden tables, spread out along the flagstone path that runs alongside the sea to the Koum Kapi district. With its motto "the history of a place is learned around a table", Chalkina offers traditional Cretan cuisine (meat pie, snails, chevron with lemon sauce, coq au vin, etc.). The restaurant is also renowned for the variety of meats on offer: organic black pork, black angus, dry-aged beef.

A family-run taverna with a great reputation, located in the port of Plaka. It serves excellent fresh fish all year round, and you'll meet plenty of locals, which is always a sign of quality and authenticity. It's the ideal place to enjoy a Greek-style lobster worthy of the name! Excellent fried anchovies and grilled calamari seasoned with olive oil and oregano, fresh salads and more. As always with fresh fish, ask for the price per kilo before ordering, as the bill quickly rises.

Located in a beautiful stone house, the restaurant enjoys a magnificent view of the sea and the mountains. Run by Dimitri and Kostas, it is warm and offers an à la carte selection of fresh fish and seafood. A home-made cuisine prepared on a daily basis with local products that will delight those who come in search of the authenticity of Cretan, Greek and Mediterranean flavours. To taste:apaki (smoked Cretan sausage marinated in vinegar), saffron risotto, pasta with shrimps and mussels, lamb with rosemary and feta..

This is probably the oldest tavern in the city. Of course it serves traditional Cretan specialties cooked with local olive oil, including fresh grilled fish, the famous rosemary snails, rabbit, mussels in tomato sauce and sheep's cheese. It is a family affair with Mum in the kitchen, the son in the dining room and his brother who runs the Hotel Zafira just behind the tavern, where you can stay all year round. Deckchairs are free for restaurant and hotel guests.

On the road to Vai, 700 m before the beach, is this restaurant of Cretan cuisine. It is an old building dating from 1709, in which the families of the shepherds of the monastery of Toplou lived. It has been rebuilt without losing its authenticity and offers traditional cuisine. Try the Xigalo, a sour cream cheese served with stuffed vine leaves... And don't forget the lamb cooked in a ceramic pot with potatoes, eggplant and cheese.

A traditional restaurant for 30 years. Their mezzedes (dishes) are true masterpieces, by the taste, presentation and quality of the raw materials: fava, tzatziki, eggplant salad, grilled cheese, dried white bean salad, beetroot salad, puff pastry, cheese fritters, taramossalata (cod egg purée), stuffed vine leaves. The restaurant is large, nicely furnished in traditional Greek style, and has an olive garden with vines. The menu is in French and the service is impeccable.

George Mamatzakis was a chef in major hotels (including the Hilton in Athens) before opening his own restaurant here near Agapi Beach. He offers interesting à la carte menus: fresh fish, shellfish, Greek specialities, excellent grilled meats... No particular decor, we come here for its atmosphere, the quality of the raw materials and the chef's know-how. The staff is very attentive and welcoming. Very good value for money.

This typical Cretan rakadiko is located opposite the Avli Restaurant: It's his little sister… In other words, it's the more relaxed version of the great Avli, where you drink raki by sharing small dishes or mezze that are simmered on the spot before our eyes. Good alternative to eating well if you want to stay light or if Avli is complete as often in the full season. Ideal for a small traditional evening, between drinks and good dishes. Ingredients come from small local producers, most of them organic.

The best fish restaurant in the village at moderate prices and with a view. On a large and very pleasant terrace right on the waterfront, you can choose fish and local specialities in the window. Everything is very good, the dishes are generous, the service is a little slow but really friendly, the French speaking waiter takes the time to detail each dish. This allows you to contemplate the boats and the crystal clear turquoise water while having a very good time. In addition to fish, seafood and a variety of other dishes are served.

In front of St. George's church, you can spot this charming tavern: a subdued atmosphere in an old house with a very nice shaded garden and an interior space decorated with care. Bougainvilleas, palm trees and a lot of flower pots make the evenings even more summery. You come here to eat fresh fish (more expensive per kilo) which is spread out on the pretty little caique in front of the entrance. Several dishes inspired by Greek-Cretan cuisine are also offered, as well as various dishes and salads. Perfect for a romantic dinner.

A regulars' tavern specialising in fresh fish since 1984, but also serves delicious dishes prepared by the owner's wife and sister. Scala offers a more refined cuisine than elsewhere (and, rarely, innovative desserts), in a more intimate setting, and offers the highest panoramic terrace in Matala, perched on its small cape and closing the bay to the west. Access to the sea below is via small stairs. Beautiful view and quality dishes of the day. Booking is almost obligatory in high season, but you won't regret it.

In a small street parallel to the Paleologou, a pretty little garden under fig and lemon trees shelters this family tavern-ouzerie where you can eat for a reasonable price typical Cretan cuisine of excellent quality. An address that is especially appreciated by the locals even out of season. The secret is the ingredients that come from the owner's mountain farm. A real breath of fresh air, simple and unpretentious, but so authentic and sincere. The raki and olive oil also come from the same farm.

Theodosi is a modern restaurant on the ground floor of Hôtel Alexis. An escape Ideal for one evening away from the tourist sites from mass. Greek and Cretan creative cuisine served à la carte, we strongly recommend the chicken fillet with smoked pork and pork chops with honey and thyme. The owners had a restaurant in Vancouver, Canada for years, giving an original mix to the already carefully prepared dishes. Fresh fish on the menu and magnificent sea views as well as on the city of Hania.

In a rustic setting (stone and wood) we taste very original garlic bread and pizzas are prepared on site, with a homemade pasta. They are cooked in olive wood fire in a traditional brick oven before our eyes. Beyond the pizzas at the wood fire, traditional Cretan cuisine of quality.

Psychro has suffered from the organized tours that only go through the village at full speed... But if you have decided to rent a car to visit the Lassithi Plateau at your own pace, we advise you to have lunch or dinner at the Stavros tavern. The cuisine is simple and family-friendly and the products used come from the owners' farm. The dishes are tasty: lamb with lemon and herb sauce, soft and delicious, grilled meats, salads and various dishes, among others. Pleasant mezzanine, friendly and efficient service.

The must-see Rousios farm is located high up on the Sfakia plateau at the entrance to Samaria. This is where all the ingredients served in his tavern come from, including thyme honey. Some of these products are available for purchase. This is a typical Cretan speciality tavern with a large, shaded terrace, a rustic decor and a very relaxed atmosphere. Olive-wood-fired grills, traditional dishes, fish... You'll be spoilt for choice. Wifi free of charge. Rousios also offers rooms for rent.

Frequented by locals and, above all, students of Rethymno, this mezzedopoleio makes no concessions on the quality of the dishes offered. Located in the heart of the historical center, it is an ideal address to enjoy traditional Cretan and Greek cuisine at a very good price. Among the dishes: the Cretan brusquette, marinated anchovies, steamed mussels... Doughnuts with chocolate sauce offered generously at the end of the meal. Excellent value for money. With a little luck, you can also attend a live music evening.

Located just outside Hania, in the small village of Agios Ioannis, this iconic café has been unearthed by connoisseurs of authentic Cretan cuisine. The establishment is famous for its stews, lamb chops with herbs and lemon (succulent), and various traditional vegetable dishes (stuffed tomatoes and peppers, among others). The fried potatoes are homemade... In short, all the secrets of Stella^Mpolanaki, the soul of the establishment and cook, on your plate. We'd love to go back.

During your visit to Rethymnon, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at Mr. Othonas, the owner of this renowned family taverna. The tastefully decorated Othonas Taverna has been serving traditional Greek and Cretan dishes prepared daily with local products for 35 years. The quality of the dishes, which remain faithful to the culinary traditions, is a reference point for the restaurant, with some innovative touches. The must: feta cheese with figs and molasses. Very friendly staff. Reservations are recommended.

If you like hiking, your steps will take you to Adravastoi, a tiny village near Palaikastro, in the Zakros region. Here you can sample Cretan cuisine in a friendly, family-run tavern: stuffed zucchini flowers and vine leaves, grilled meats, veal and lamb stews, wood-fired lamb. The owner, Mr. Yannis, is friendly and welcoming. At weekends, in high season, it's a good idea to book or call ahead to avoid unpleasant surprises.

A warm welcome awaits you in this authentic tavern where you will taste the dishes of the day proposed by the owner (no menu). You won't be disappointed and the bill will delight all purses! A good address to change from the local trout and taste the famous Cretan snails! And, outside of meals, the tavern turns into a small café-ouzerie where you can meet during the day or in the evening to share a drink or coffee and discuss the day's events. A pleasant stopover if you're passing through the area.

One of the first tavernas you will find at the entrance to the sandy beach on the left, which guarantees you a splendid view of the famous caves by day and night. There is a bar on the panoramic terrace. Taste the local moussaka, cuttlefish risotto or seafood spaghetti. As for the wines, we recommend the house white wine which is very good. Dimitris is the friendly owner who speaks a little French. Relaxed atmosphere. Live music concerts. Fresh fish every day (watch out for the price per kilo!).

This is the oldest tavern in the small village of Myrtos. Its owners run the hotel, also the oldest in the village. In the morning, breakfast is served to hotel guests, but you can always have a coffee or quench your thirst... As soon as the sun goes down, the establishment transforms into a mezzedopoleio offering a variety of dishes from traditional Cretan cuisine. Evenings are often festive, with dancing and singing accompanied by Cretan musicians.

Akrogiali is the oldest tavern in the Kato Zakros region. Founded in 1898, it was taken over in 1991 by Nikos and his wife Tania. Since then they have been offering Cretan meals based on local products (meat, cheese, vegetables) and good fish and shellfish. At 5 meters from the beach, almost with your feet in the water, you will taste at the Akrogiali (which means "at the end of the sea") good dishes carefully prepared. The owner, Nikos, speaks French. He also owns the Athena and Coral residences where you can stay.

Greek-Cretan cuisine restaurant and pizzeria on the port located between Hotel Elysée and Hotel Flisvos near the water to admire the small fishing boats. Pleasant, clean and shaded terrace overlooking a small flowerbed and the small port. Nevertheless, the cuisine here is traditional: rabbit has been a speciality of the owner for twenty years. There are 5 to 6 dishes of the day in summer, including some fish dishes, snails... Fresh home-made tiramisu is systematically offered all year round. Warm welcome.

A dream decor at the Pirates of the Caribbean both inside and outside for this multi-colored, atypical restaurant. Here you feel relaxed immediately when you arrive, the view is splendid, we eat on the edge of the relaxing water. Fresh daily fish chosen in the window, but also original dishes. There is a wide selection of Cretan entries, five varieties of soups, various grills, Greek dishes… on the back of reggae music, of course. The atmosphere is so representative of Matala that we cannot miss it.

This choice tavern overlooks the port of Bali, and Greek dishes are served in the shade of the beautiful terrace overlooking the bay and part of the port. As the décor attests, fish and shellfish are king here. The octopus salad is very successful, grilled squid or swordfish as well. A pleasant way to gain height and admire the sea while accompanying a glass of raki or a cold beer with some of the dishes on offer. The prices remain reasonable despite the tourist boom.

Small family tavern held by an expert in Cretan cuisine in a small courtyard planted with trees. She's on the edge of the road, but it's more quiet than on the harbor. For a quiet evening.

A charming couple welcomes you in this small restaurant located in the main square of the pretty village of Kritsa. Traditional Greek dishes are served here: souvlaki, mixed meat, fried meatballs, cheese puff pastry, kebabs... all accompanied by dakos (toasted bread with tomatoes, feta, oregano and Kritsa olive oil). Don't leave without tasting the stuffed vine leaf salad prepared by the boss's mother. You can also have breakfast there. The products in the kitchen and the wine are homemade. Menu in French.

Family tavern owned by Nikos Platanakis. Traditional cuisine is prepared here, using melting vegetables from the garden. The owner, will make you taste the best homemade paximadi of the region. The son, who is very charming and speaks excellent French, will perhaps show you around the kitchens so that the women who officiate there will lift the lids of all the pots of the day: green beans in tomato sauce, lamb or rabbit stew....

Opened in 1965, it was the first restaurant in this place called also «fisherman's square». This was the meeting of the fishermen who were feeding fresh fish daily. At the corner of the port, recognizable with its terrace, you can easily find this family restaurant. Taste seafood specialties and fresh fish. Be careful, as always with fresh fish in Greece: check the price per kilo so you don't have a bad surprise at the time of the addition that can rise very fast.

Family tavern, by the sea, in the heart of the central port of Bali. On the two terraces you can taste dishes of Greek and Cretan cuisine. Οone comes here especially to taste the fish of the day, shellfish, fresh seafood. Lobster spaghetti, grilled sea bream, mussels, lobsters, red mullet are delicious but quite expensive. Other specialties: meats and snails. Prefer the terrace on the^1st floor overlooking the port. Check the menu for the price per kilo of fish to avoid unpleasant surprises.

This is a good place to eat real Greek mezzedes, homemade(mizzithropitaki with cheese or spinach, dolmadakia vine leaves, keftedakia meatballs, hydropitakia with spinach) and various snacks and salads. Olive oil and raki are homemade, as for any self-respecting address, and wines from famous Cretan and Greek estates are available. And all this at low prices! With its shaded terrace, this establishment is a simple and authentic Greek brasserie, just the way we like it.

Overlooking the sea at the foot of the Venetian fortress, the Thalassographia offers a splendid view and basic but good Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is housed in an old Venetian building that has recently been converted and renovated. For a meal, a coffee or a drink, the establishment is a guaranteed inspiration for your postcard break! The waterfront is trendy and enjoys a good reputation. The wind is more agitated there than anywhere else but the location, a little isolated, promises you an appreciable calm in Réthymnon.

This tavern opened its doors in the first building built in Elounda in 1906. It is a family tavern located in the town square by the sea. The locals proudly recount that Victoria Hislop, author of The Island of the Forgotten, whose plot is set on Spinalonga Island, is said to have sat there. A restaurant of fish, shellfish, fresh seafood and Greek specialties, copiously and generously served. The tavern has a varied wine list of wines from the regions of Crete and Greece.

Alla & Alla is the kind of place you'd expect to find on vacation: a friendly atmosphere, where you can eat well without breaking the bank! Take a seat on Kaillambi alley, a stone's throw from the Fontaine aux Lions, and enjoy dishes prepared with quality ingredients: the salads are fresh and the small dishes inevitably attract a glass of chilled raki. Opt for the mixed grill dish for a meat-based meal. Bulk wine is of good quality. Efficient service. On the menu, solutions for vegetable lovers too.

Established in 1978, Kri Kri is a Greek cuisine restaurant offering excellent grilled meat (especially lamb chops grilled over a wood fire), fresh fish and various mezzedes of excellent quality. From its spacious and well-shaded terrace, with a panoramic view of the picturesque bay of Ormos, you can enjoy, among other things, grilled swordfish served with steamed vegetables and lemon sauce, with 500 ml raspberry and blueberry cider. Ask for advice on local wines. Impeccable service.

Traditional Cretan cuisine from father to son since 1930. Among the most popular dishes, baked lamb with potatoes, gamopilafo (pilaf with lamb: the typical dish served at weddings in Crete). The tavern is also recommended for its grills. In season, every Saturday, from 8 pm, the Cretan evening begins with traditional dances to the rhythm of the lyre and lute. The tavern is a real folklore museum where you can also buy local products to take away. Very good address.

Distinct from the classic taverns in the surrounding area, this restaurant offers modern Cretan cuisine in a chic lounge atmosphere with a view of the blue sea. The restaurant offers quality dishes and the beach bar offers snacks and breakfasts all day long. Contemporary decoration and trendy music on the beach. Very pleasant setting for a cocktail by the sea. Slightly higher prices for this unique place in Agia Pelagia.

On the beach, this is a place not to be missed in Kato Gouves. Both beach-bar and restaurant, people come here for the lounge atmosphere that reigns all day long and that becomes more festive in the evening. At the edge of an almost private beach with comfortable deckchairs, you come for breakfast, a coffee break, lunch at noon... The sunset invites you to a romantic dinner at around 8 pm. It is an elegant place as we like them, offering a light refined cuisine, at quite reasonable prices.

One of the best addresses in town. A good family restaurant that is dedicated to welcoming its customers at lunch and dinner, facing the sea. Excellent Cretan cuisine cooked over an olive wood fire, in an elegantly renovated setting. Different dishes of the day, usually organically grown. It is prepared with olive oil... but it is also a restaurant of meat, salads and fish. The traditional Cretan dishes are highlighted, with succulent snails, octopus and pieces of lamb. Very affordable prices. We'll be back, with pleasure.

This tavern is well located, a little out of town, a few meters from the sea, on the peninsula to the east. You can't miss it: a small caique is in front of the entrance of the establishment! It serves traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine and fresh fish (depending on the arrival). The dishes are prepared on a daily basis. Among the specialties: kleftiko (lamb with vegetables and cheese in the oven), octopus with wine, cheese fritters, grilled lobster, sardines... You can digest on the small beach in front of the restaurant.

If you are looking for quality, elegance, freshness and a breathtaking view of the sea, 7 Thalasses is the ideal address. It is the restaurant of the Thalassa boutique hotel and since 2000 it has placed Rethymno among the best gastronomic destinations in Crete with its menu. It offers Mediterranean and Cretan cuisine: fresh fish and shellfish platters, delicious salads, dishes for lovers of the flavors of the sea. First class wine list. Reservations are recommended.

This restaurant serves typical Cretan dishes flavoured with the island's many herbs. The waiters are professional and will advise you very well, both on the choice of wines and on the refined dishes. We also offer meat roasted over a wood fire, slowly cooking in front of your eyes. Some dishes are covered with a bell to keep them warm but, above all, the inside is covered with herbs which, thanks to their aroma and flavour, give the meat a unique aroma and taste. Do not miss this experience, which is highly recommended.

Very popular with locals and visitors alike, people come here to enjoy the authentic flavors of top-quality raw materials: grilled meats, salads, doughnuts with vanilla ice cream... and, of course, chicken in sauce, a unique dish. Here, in the center of the village lost in nature, traditional cooking classes are given in French: contact neighbors Mireille or Pierre on +30 697 562 6830 or +30 697 99 12034.