Honestly, each restaurant we visited in Chania left us eager to return. While I’ve always heard about the excellence of Greek cuisine, the flavors surpassed my expectations.
However, it’s wise to be cautious of tourist traps. Visiting Chania during the off-season can be particularly rewarding, as you’ll have the opportunity to follow the locals’ lead, given that many tourist-centric eateries are closed then.
We’ve selected the 8 best restaurants in Chania from our experience and will share our top dish recommendations.
Key Takeaways:
- Chania, a city in Crete, offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene.
- These restaurants cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Explore the flavors, ambiance, and history of each restaurant.
Must-Try Restaurants in Chania, Greece
When it comes to experiencing the vibrant culinary scene of Chania, Greece, there are several must-try restaurants that will satisfy your taste buds. From the picturesque shores of Nea Chora Beach to the charming streets of Chania Old Town, these restaurants offer a variety of flavors and dining experiences.
Kaiki in Chania, Nea Chora Beach
Located on the beautiful Nea Chora Beach, Kaiki is a restaurant that combines breathtaking views with authentic Greek cuisine. Feast on fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus and Greek-style fish soup while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The cozy and relaxed atmosphere makes Kaiki a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Octopus Salad: Unmatched in flavor and texture, this octopus was incredibly tender, without a hint of chewiness.
- Boiled Shrimps: These shrimps were wonderfully juicy and seasoned perfectly with a hint of lemon.
- Creamy Seafood Soup: A creamy delight, packed with rich flavors that satisfy your taste buds.
- Seafood Risotto: Exceptionally delicious, but note that it’s quite a large serving, perfect for two.
- Complimentary Brownie: A deliciously moist brownie, topped with jam and accompanied by vanilla ice cream – a delightful conclusion to your meal.
Five Restaurant in Chania, Nea Chora Beach
If you’re looking for a modern twist on traditional Greek cuisine, Five Restaurant is the place to visit. With its stylish decor and innovative menu, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. From Greek meze platters to fusion dishes, Five Restaurant will take you on a culinary adventure.
As soon as we arrived, super hungry, we stumbled upon Five Restaurant. It was an instant culinary match – a delightful start to our working holiday in Crete. We intended to visit them again for our final dinner, but they had already closed for the season in November.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Summer Salad: Love at first bite. Probably one of the best salads you’ll ever eat. The unique peach-basil dressing adds a flavorful touch to the blend of fresh greens, seasonal fruits, and authentic Manouri cheese.
- Beetroot Vegan Carpaccio: An excellent beginning to your meal, this appetizer includes thinly sliced, oven-roasted beetroot accompanied by a creamy cauliflower purée.
- Sea Bream in Kakavia Twist: Enjoy a beautifully cooked sea bream fillet, complemented by a smooth celeriac purée and topped with an innovative smoked pancetta foam.
Tamam in Chania Old Town
Tucked away in the heart of Chania’s old town, Tamam is nestled in a historic structure that dates back to around 1400 AD, originally built by the Venetians as a public bathhouse. This eatery is renowned for its unique fusion of Middle Eastern and Cretan cuisines. Its quaint, narrow courtyard and warm atmosphere make it a hit with the locals. In peak season, the sight of long lines outside is a testament to its popularity, which is what drew us to this exceptional spot.
The restaurant’s origins trace back to 1982, born from the camaraderie of a group of friends. Its name, Tamam, is a creative play on words, deriving from the echo of ‘hamam’ music, and fittingly translates to ‘all is well’ in Arabic. This name beautifully encapsulates the spirit of this beloved dining establishment.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Baked Giant Beans With Garlic Sauce: Exquisitely creamy, an absolute slice of heaven. We made a special trip back just for this dish.
- Roasted Pumpkin Salad: Perfectly seasoned, showcasing the lusciously sweet taste of roasted pumpkin.
- Fried Talagani Cheese in Hazelnut Crust: An unexpectedly marvelous pairing. Ideal for sharing.
- Iranian Rice: Truly stunning, with flavors akin to Biryani. It stands out as one of our top picks.
Note: We recommend booking a table ahead of time to ensure a spot.
To Maridaki in Chania Old Town
If you’re in the mood for a cozy and quaint dining experience, To Maridaki is the perfect choice. Nestled in the alleys of Chania Old Town, this restaurant transports you to a bygone era with its rustic decor and warm ambiance. It’s a favorite spot for locals, and their seafood dishes are incredibly tasty. To get a taste of a variety of dishes, we recommend sharing each course.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Fish Soup: Rich and full of flavor, it has a delightful similarity to pea soup, which I adore.
- Sea Bass: Pefectly grilled and ideal for sharing.
Note: We recommend booking a table if you plan to go after 8pm.
Mikro Kelari in Chania Old Town Night Street
When the sun sets, head over to Mikro Kelari in Chania Old Town Night Street for a lively and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re seeking a delightful, authentic Greek dining experience in a lively yet cozy setting, Mikro Kelari is an excellent choice. For meat enthusiasts, their slow-cooked meat dishes are a must-try.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Field Meatballs: Extraordinary zucchini patties, seasoned with spearmint, redefine vegan meatballs. They’re the tastiest zucchini burgers we’ve encountered, served with a delightful tomato and bell pepper sauce that had us coming back for more.
- Pomegranate, Fig & Walnut Salad: This vegan salad is a blend of freshness and taste. The pomegranate and fig combine beautifully, adding a sweet touch that pairs well with the crunchy walnuts.
- Lamb & Pork Stews: Meticulously slow-cooked to perfection. Their hours of simmering result in richly flavored dishes.
Note: We recommend booking a table.
Throumbi in Chania Old Town Night Street
Another gem in Chania Old Town Night Street is Throumbi, right next to Mikro Kelari. With a cozy courtyard setting, Throumbi offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. I suggest visiting them for their delicious complimentary ice cream profiterole.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Quinoa Salad: Perfectly flavored with lime vinaigrette with a hint of raisin sweetness. As a starter, it’s perfect for sharing but could also be a main dish for one person.
- Eggplant Dip: The best eggplant dip I had in Crete. It was totally different from others, a unique blend of flavors that go beyond the typical grilled aubergine taste
- Complimentary Ice Cream Profiterole: The best free dessert I had in Crete. . It looks like a chocolate truffle but surprises you with ice cream inside. The soft outer layer, with a touch of cocoa, goes really well with the vanilla ice cream.
Note: We recommend booking a table.
Oteki in Chania Old Town
Nestled in the heart of the old town, close to the Old Venetian Port, Oteki offers a charming outdoor seating area on a quaint, narrow street. Perfect for fusion cuisine enthusiasts, Oteki stands out with its inventive dishes, uniquely melding Greek and international flavors.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Vegan Moussaka: One of the best vegan moussakas we tried in Chania.
- Tiramisu: Delicious and moist.
Note: We recommend booking a table.
Chrisostomos in Chania Old Town
Chrisostomos, nestled near the Chania Venetian Harbor Guardhouse, is a local favorite renowned for its traditional Greek home-cooked meals. This charming eatery in Chania Old Town invites guests into a warm, intimate setting, perfect for enjoying hearty, lovingly prepared dishes.
We suggest trying these dishes:
- Giant Beans: Often featured on their daily menu, these perfectly seasoned giant beans in a rich tomato sauce are not to be missed.
- Grilled cheeses: Delight in their variety of grilled cheeses, including feta, graviera, and tyrosouli, each offering a unique taste of Greece.
Note: We recommend booking a table.
With these must-try restaurants, Chania offers an array of dining experiences that will delight any food lover. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood by the beach or traditional Greek flavors in a historic setting, Chania’s culinary scene has something for everyone.
See what else to do in Chania here.
Looking for restaurants outside of Chania? See the list of 10 best restaurants in Crete.
More tips for exploring Greece:
FAQ
What type of cuisine can I expect at these Chania restaurants?
These restaurants in Chania offer a variety of cuisines, including traditional Greek dishes, Mediterranean flavors, seafood specialties, and even international options. You’ll find something to satisfy all taste preferences.
Do these restaurants cater to dietary requirements?
Yes, these Chania restaurants have options for different dietary needs. From organic and vegetarian choices to gluten-free and vegan dishes, you’ll find menus that cater to various dietary preferences.
Are these restaurants suitable for both locals and tourists?
Absolutely! These Chania restaurants are popular among both locals and tourists. They offer an authentic Greek dining experience, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture while also attracting loyal patrons from the community.
What sets these Chania restaurants apart from others in the city?
These restaurants stand out for their flavors, ambiance, and history. They are known as hidden gems and popular spots that locals and tourists rave about. Each restaurant has its own unique charm, making the dining experience memorable and special.
Can I enjoy sea views while dining at these Chania restaurants?
Yes, some of these Chania restaurants offer stunning sea views. For example, Kaiki, located on Nea Chora Beach, provides a beautiful beachfront setting where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the sea.
