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Restaurants and tavernas

Tavernas on Crete: Authentic Cretan cuisine

The tavernas on Crete are at the heart of the island's cuisine. These traditional eateries have been cooking for generations according to old recipes characterised by fresh, regional ingredients. Olive oil, the liquid gold of Crete, is one of the main ingredients in almost every dish. In the tavernas, visitors enjoy classics such as ‘dakos’ (a barley rusk with tomatoes, feta and olive oil), ‘kalitsounia’ (small dumplings filled with cheese or wild herbs) and the famous ‘moussaka’.

Meat lovers will get their money's worth with lamb and goat meat dishes, which are often cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. Many tavernas also offer freshly caught fish and seafood, which is usually simply grilled and served with a squeeze of lemon.

Restaurants on Crete: from traditional to modern

In addition to the traditional tavernas, Crete also has a variety of restaurants that range from fine dining to modern interpretations of traditional dishes. Many restaurants on Crete focus on a fusion of Cretan ingredients and international influences, resulting in innovative yet authentic dishes.

In towns such as Chania, Rethymno and Heraklion in particular, you will find a wide range of restaurants located in picturesque alleyways or overlooking the sea. Here you can savour not only traditional cuisine, but also international dishes and creative menus that combine the best of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine.

Christo's Taverna - Gallou

Enjoy local delicacies and various daily specials.

Taverne Fantastiko - Maroulas

Fresh, traditional Cretan cuisine with breathtaking views.

Taverne GIO-MA - Plakias

Enjoy delicious fish specialties and the sunset right by the sea.

Taverne Babis - Kournas

Antichristo, Kokoretsi & Co. await you in the village of Kournas/District of Chania.

Taverna Yiannis - Platanes

International and Cretan cuisine in the heart of Platanes / Rethymno.

Raki Ba Raki - Rethymno / Altstadt

Wonderful food in a great atmosphere.

Alekos Taverna - Armeni

Authentic Cretan cuisine. Good service and large outdoor area.

Mariou Taverna 

Super quality, as you rarely find it, changing daily menu.

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