Four notable traditional eateries to savor Cretan cuisine on the Greek isle of Crete
In the heart of Greece lies the island of Crete, known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a rich culinary heritage. From family-owned restaurants to picturesque tavernas, Crete offers a gastronomic adventure that celebrates local, seasonal, and high-quality ingredients.
One such gem is Avli Restaurant, nestled in Malia, near Heraklion. This family-owned establishment is renowned for its succulent mezes and succulent cuts of meat cooked over a wood fire. The restaurant's terrace offers a great view of the city, making it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. Generosity is at the heart of the dishes served at Avli Restaurant, with standout recommendations including the mousaka, grilled talagani, and the famous saganaki. To round off your meal, don't miss out on trying the contact information provided: Agiou Ioannou 2 28ης Οκτωβρίου 7 Αγίου Ιωάννου, γωνία 2, Malia 700 07, Greece, Tel: +30 2897 031112, and their website is avli-malia.gr.
For those seeking a beachside dining experience, Taverna Bar Vasilis is a must-visit. Located in Chania, this restaurant offers a gorgeous view and the chance to dine with your feet in the sand. Recommended dishes include grilled octopus served with Greek salad and the famous saganaki. To find Taverna Bar Vasilis, head to the city of La Canée, and use the contact information: +30 2821 032214.
Raki, a brandy made from grapes and cooked in copper cauldrons, is a true institution in Crete and served regularly to guests and for celebrations. This spirit, along with top-quality olive oil, forms the backbone of many traditional dishes in Crete.
Among the must-try traditional dishes are Gamopilafo, a rich, creamy rice dish simmered in lamb or goat broth and finished with distinctive Cretan staka butter, traditionally served at weddings and celebrations. Another unique dish is Antikristo, a Cretan barbecue where large pieces of goat or lamb are slowly cooked upright over an open fire for several hours, resulting in juicy meat with a crispy exterior.
Dakos, a salad made with fresh tomatoes, sheep's milk cheese, and a barley cracker or paximadi, is a staple in Cretan cuisine, reflecting the island’s simple, fresh ingredients. Kalitsounia, small pies filled with cheese or wild herbs, sometimes sweetened with honey or dusted with cinnamon, highlight Cretan cheese varieties like mizithra and anthotyro.
Stamnagathi, wild greens served typically with lemon and olive oil, often accompany meat dishes, demonstrating the Cretan emphasis on foraged and seasonal vegetables. Skioufichta, traditional Cretan handmade pasta, is usually served with grated hard local cheeses such as anthotyros or tirozouli, often combined with meat broth or local smoked meats for enhanced flavor.
For an authentic experience, eating in family-run tavernas in villages or specialized restaurants like Canale in Chania Town is recommended, where traditional flavors are preserved and sometimes elevated with modern techniques.
In the picturesque town of Rethymno, Taverna Stavros offers Greek hospitality, wooden tables under vines, and a parrot for company. Here, you can enjoy famous mezes such as tzatziki, gyros souvlaki, and the Greek salad. To contact Taverna Stavros, call +30 2831 024822.
Lastly, don't forget to try Tiropita Sfakiana, a specialty of the Sfakia region. These sweet cheese cakes are made from raki, olive oil, and a variety of Cretan goat's and sheep's cheeses, served with thyme honey.
Crete's strong identity in terms of landscapes, villages, and gastronomy, with Mediterranean influences, makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers. So, pack your bags and embark on a culinary journey through this beautiful island.
At Avli Restaurant in Malia, near Heraklion, enjoy a dining experience with breathtaking city views, featuring en-vols food and drink offerings, such as succulent mezes and succulent cuts of meat cooked over a wood fire, reflecting Crete's rich lifestyle and culinary heritage. For beachside dining with a view, Taverna Bar Vasilis in Chania offers a chance to dine with your feet in the sand, serving food-and-drink options like grilled octopus, embodying the island's unique travel experiences.
