Indulge in culinary bliss: unveiling 6 exquisite restaurants redefining Greek gastronomy in Crete

Crete is the largest and most diverse island in Greece, with a rich history, culture, and nature. The island is also famous for its cuisine, which is based on the Mediterranean diet, with fresh and local ingredients, such as olive oil, cheese, honey, herbs, vegetables, fish, and meat. Crete has a variety of restaurants, from traditional tavernas to modern bistros, where you can taste the authentic and delicious flavors of the Cretan gastronomy.

Othonas taverna

Othonas taverna is a local restaurant, located in the old town of Rethymno, one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Crete. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of the Venetian port and the fortress, and it has a cozy and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes such as grilled octopus, lamb chops, and moussaka. The owner and the chef, Mr. Othonas, has personally taken care of the menu, to please the customers who are fond of quality food. The service is also royal and friendly, and the prices are reasonable.

Bravo Seafood Restaurant

Bravo Seafood Restaurant is a family-run restaurant, located in the picturesque area of Little Venice, near the port of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. The restaurant has a terrace that overlooks the sea and the boats, and it offers a romantic and relaxing setting. The restaurant serves fresh and delicious seafood, such as shrimp risotto, grilled calamari, and lobster pasta. You can also try some of the local wines and spirits, such as ouzo and raki. The staff is also welcoming and helpful, and the portions are generous.

Zefyros Family Fish Taverna

Zefyros Family Fish Taverna is a traditional restaurant, located in the historic area of Thissio, near the ancient Agora of Athens. The restaurant has a garden that offers a view of the Acropolis and the greenery, and it creates a peaceful and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant serves classic Greek dishes, such as tzatziki, souvlaki, and baklava, as well as some creative and modern dishes, such as salmon with quinoa and yogurt sauce, and chocolate mousse with orange and mint. The ingredients are fresh and organic, and the flavors are balanced and refined.

Peskesi

Peskesi is a modern restaurant, located in the center of Heraklion, near the Archaeological Museum and the Morosini Fountain. The restaurant is an effort to discover the secrets and enjoy the benefits of the Cretan diet, based on pure and natural products of the Cretan land. The restaurant has a stylish and minimalist decor, and it showcases the ancient and contemporary aspects of the Cretan culture. The restaurant serves Greek and fusion cuisine, with dishes such as smoked eggplant salad, lamb shank with mashed potatoes and rosemary sauce, and cheesecake with berries. The presentation is also artistic and impressive, and the service is professional and attentive.

Avli

Avli is a gourmet restaurant, located in a beautiful courtyard in the old town of Rethymno. The restaurant offers a fusion of Cretan and international cuisine, with dishes such as snails with feta cheese and mint, duck with orange and honey sauce, and chocolate cake with ice cream and caramel. The restaurant also has a wine cellar, with more than 460 labels of Greek and foreign wines. The atmosphere is romantic and elegant, and the service is impeccable.

To Pigadi

To Pigadi is a traditional restaurant, located in a Venetian building in the old town of Rethymno. The restaurant offers a variety of Cretan dishes, such as dakos (barley rusk with tomato and cheese), kalitsounia (cheese pies with honey), and stifado (beef stew with onions and spices). The restaurant also has a terrace, with a view of the old town and the sea. The atmosphere is cozy and friendly, and the prices are reasonable.