If you are looking for a foodie paradise, look no further. Crete has one of the best foods in the world. Plus the prices are really affordable. With a rich culinary tradition and an abundance of fresh ingredients, Crete offers some of the best dining experiences in Greece. From traditional Greek tavernas to modern fine dining establishments, there is something to suit every palate.
We spent 2.5 months exploring Crete and here are our favorite restaurants with food recommendations from all over the Crete island where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine.
Key Takeaways:
- Crete is a food lover’s paradise with a rich culinary tradition.
- Crete has various dining options, from traditional tavernas to fine dining establishments.
- It’s quite common to receive a complimentary dessert along with raki in almost every restaurant.
Must-Try Restaurants in Crete, Greece
Crete, known for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins, is also a culinary paradise. With its rich food tradition and fresh ingredients, this Greek island offers some of the best dining experiences in the country. If you’re a food enthusiast looking for an authentic taste of Greece, these 10 must-try restaurants in Crete will exceed your expectations.
Ntounias in Drakonas Village
About a 40-minute drive from Chania. A popular family-owned restaurant among locals that’s nestled in the charming Drakonas Village, Ntounias offers a truly local dining experience. This rustic taverna is known for its farm-to-table approach, serving dishes made with ingredients sourced from their own organic farm and cooked on open fire. They even offer cooking classes in the Mediterranean tradition.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Seasonal Salad: A delightful mix of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and nuts, perfectly paired with local cheese and crispy barley rusk.
- Chestnut-Potato Stew: Arguably the best chestnut stew in Crete, if not the world, with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
- Broccoli Stew: A melt-in-your-mouth stew where all the flavors harmoniously blend together for a memorable taste experience.
- Dakos: This could be Crete’s best dakos, thanks to fresh, homemade barley rusk and perfectly mild cheese.
- Bread: Don’t miss their warm, homemade organic bread, especially when dipped in rich, flavorful olive oil.
PS! It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance.
Peskesi in Heraklion
Situated in the heart of Heraklion, Peskesi is a hidden gem that impresses both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant prides itself on reviving ancient Cretan recipes while using locally sourced, organic ingredients. You have the opportunity to learn about the journey of your food, with a timetable showing how long it takes for ingredients to go from source to restaurant. For starters, you can choose from over 10 different olive oils, each served with bread. It’s definitely a must-try experience.
You can also explore their organic farm, participate in a culinary lesson, or enjoy a food pairing experience with olive tasting.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Virgin olive oil with bread: Choose between 10+ quality olive oils.
- Bean Salad: A tasty mix of chickpeas and other beans, all in olive oil.
- Smoked Eel with Taramosalata: Perfect for fans of smoked fish.
- Bean Stew: A delicious stew with a strong pea flavor.
- Goat Stew: The best goat stew in Crete – so good, it might make you cry.
- Gastrin Dessert: Traditional Minoan Crete pastry is an exquisite combination of almonds, walnuts, poppy seeds, and honey, encased in a delicate pastry sheet. Its flavor profile is reminiscent of the baklava.
- Free Dessert: A delicious semolina pudding with a hint of orange and cinnamon.
PS! It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance.
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Kaiki in Chania, Nea Chora Beach
If you’re craving freshly caught seafood paired with a stunning beach view, Kaiki in Chania won’t disappoint. This charming, family-run restaurant, situated on the promenade of Nea Chora Beach, skillfully blends the simplicity of Mediterranean flavors with a modern culinary twist. It’s not only a feast for the palate but also a delightful spot for a cozy dinner by the sea.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Octopus Salad: The best octopus we’ve ever tasted – tender, not rubbery in the slightest.
- Boiled Shrimps: Succulent shrimps with just the right touch of lemon.
- Creamy Seafood Soup: Rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
- Seafood Risotto: Simply amazing, but be warned – the portion is generous! It’s ideal for sharing.
- Free Brownie: A perfectly moist brownie, layered with jam and served with vanilla ice cream – an irresistible finish.
The Five Restaurant in Chania, Nea Chora Beach
Located on Nea Chora Beach in Chania, The Five Restaurant offers a contemporary spin on traditional Cretan cuisine. With its elegant setting and innovative dishes, Five has gained a reputation as one of the best fine dining establishments on the island. Indulge in their creative tasting menus and experience the artistry of Chef Aris Tsanaklidis. We were amazed by their interesting choices of vegan food.
We had just arrived, hungry and in search of a good meal. Our first stop was Five Restaurant, and it was love at first bite – the perfect beginning to our workation in Crete.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Summer Salad: A delightful first taste. The peach-basil dressing is a standout, bringing freshness and flavor to a mix of greens, seasonal fruits, and local Manouri cheese.”
- Vegan Carpaccio: A fantastic appetizer featuring oven-roasted beetroot slices paired with a smooth cauliflower purée.
- Sea Bream in Kakavia Sauce: A delectable sea bream fillet served with celeriac purée and a unique smoked pancetta foam.
PS! The Five Restaurant is temporarily closed after high season starting from November.
Mikro Kelari in Chania Old Town Night Street
If you’re in search of vibrant nightlife, Mikro Kelari is your go-to spot for dinner. Nestled in the picturesque old town of Chania, along the lively night street, this cozy taverna is bursting with charm and character. Serving traditional Cretan dishes made from family recipes, this restaurant captures the essence of Greek hospitality. The portions are rather huge with a truly authentic taste of Crete.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Field Meatballs: These are not your ordinary meatballs! Imagine vegan zucchini patties infused with spearmint, making them the best zucchini burgers we’ve ever tasted. The accompanying tomato-bell pepper sauce is simply amazing. We returned just for these!
- Pomegranate, Fig & Walnut Salad: A fresh and deliciously seasoned vegan salad, where the flavors of pomegranate and fig perfectly complement the crunch of walnuts.
- Lamb & Pork Stews: Each stew is a masterpiece, slow-cooked for hours to bring out rich, deep flavors.
PS! It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance.
Tamam in Chania Old Town
Another hidden gem in Chania’s old town, situated in a historical building around 1400 AC by the Venetians to operate as a public bath. Tamam offers a blend of Middle Eastern and Cretan flavors. With its cozy narrow courtyard and intimate ambiance, this restaurant is a favorite among locals. During high-season you might see long queues there which was the reason we decided to visit that amazing restaurant.
Founded in 1982 by a group of friends, Tamam got its name from a playful twist: the sound of ‘hamam’ music morphed into ‘tamam.’ This word, meaning ‘all good’ in Arabic, fittingly captured the essence of the newly established restaurant.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Baked Giant Beans With Garlic Sauce: So creamy, tastes like heaven. We returned specifically for this dish.
- Salad with Roasted Pumpkin: Expertly seasoned, featuring delightfully sweet roasted pumpkin.
- Fried Talagani Cheese in Hazelnut Crust: A surprisingly delightful combo. It’s best shared.
- Iranian Rice: Simply amazing, reminiscent of Biryani. Definitely one of the best we’ve tried.
PS! It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance.
Spilios Taverna near Falassarna Beach
If you find yourself near Falassarna Beach, a visit to family-run Spilios Taverna is a must. Overlooking the azure waters, this taverna specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine. We highly recommend enjoying dinner here, complemented by some of the most breathtaking sunset views you’ll ever experience.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Potato & Garlic Dip: Imagine a chilled, garlicky potato puree – simple yet surprisingly delightful. As potato enthusiasts, we were thoroughly impressed.
- Fava: A traditional, heartwarming split pea dip that’s full of flavor.
- Okra Stew: A homely, tomato-based stew brimming with tender okra – simplicity at its best.
Raki BaRaki in Rethimno
Raki BaRaki is a hidden treasure in the heart of Rethimno’s old town, offering a fresh take on Greek dining. This vibrant eatery, with its extensive selection of raki, promises a dining experience that’s both unique and memorable. Our discovery of this charming spot was almost serendipitous – while meandering through the old town’s narrow streets, adorned with lush plants, we were instantly drawn to its inviting ambiance. From the first moment, it felt like we’d stumbled upon something special. Dining here isn’t just about the food; it’s about the entire experience, deeply rooted in the lively spirit of Rethimno.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Boiled & Grilled Seasonal Vegetables: Perfectly cooked to retain their juiciness, these seasonal vegetables are enhanced with a sprinkle of crunchy hazelnuts.
- Oxtail Orzo: This dish is the epitome of comfort food: a hearty and satisfying oxtail orzo, richly flavored and generously cheesy, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort.
The Banana Garden in South Crete, near Preveli Beach
If you find yourself exploring southern Crete, near the stunning Preveli Beach, make sure to stop by The Banana Garden. It’s the ideal spot to satisfy your hunger before or after a beach visit. This charming eatery feels like stepping into a lovely grandmother’s garden, surrounded by lush foliage. With chickens, roosters, turkeys, and cats freely roaming, it offers an authentic farm experience that’s both delightful and unique.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Fresh Juice: We sampled two distinct flavors – a tropical guava and a rich banana. Each was a delightful refreshment.
- Greek Salad: A classic offering, bursting with freshness and traditional Greek flavors.
- Traditional Sausages: Authentic Cretan grilled sausages, packed with herbs and spices, offering a true taste of the local cuisine.
Phyllosophies in Heraklion
Phyllosophies, nestled in the heart of Heraklion old town, invites diners on a culinary exploration of Greece’s rich flavors. This restaurant stands out for its innovative takes on traditional dishes, a testament to the chefs’ creativity. A highlight of Phyllosophies is their renowned bougatsa. Crafted with hand-opened, fresh phyllo dough and ingredients from select Cretan producers, their bougatsa has roots stretching back a century. The tradition began with Apostolos Salkintzis, a bougatsa master from Smyrna, and has been lovingly preserved through four generations, offering a genuine taste of Cretan heritage.
If you’re a vegan craving traditional Cretan desserts, this spot is an absolute must-visit.
We recommend the following dishes:
- Bougatsa With Almond Cream & Maple Syrup: Truly delicious experience that’s also suitable for vegans.
- Bougatsa Moussaka: With minced mushrooms and coconut yogurt. No words needed.
These must-try top restaurants in Crete provide a range of dining experiences that embody the essence of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in farm-to-table dishes, savoring fresh seafood by the beach, or exploring modern gastronomy, Crete offers a culinary adventure like no other. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Greece and create lasting memories with every meal.
See our recommendations for the 8 Best Chania Restaurants here.
For stress-free preparations, see our essential guide on how to plan a trip to Greece.
More tips for Exploring Crete:
