Food guide

Best Restaurants in Crete

The rule is simple: the further you drive from the beach umbrellas, the better and cheaper you eat.

How to spot a good taverna

Short handwritten menu, locals at the tables, the owner cooking, no photo menus, no one outside inviting you in.

Cretan cooking is olive oil, greens and slow lamb.

Archanes and Zaros for village cooking, Elounda and Kalyves for fish, Chania's back streets for modern Cretan plates.

Dinner starts at 21:00 for locals. Raki at the end is free and refusing it is a tiny insult. Cash is welcome in villages.

How expensive is eating out?

A full village taverna meal with wine is typically €15-25 per person.

Is it vegetarian friendly?

Very. Cretan cuisine is built on beans, greens, cheese and vegetables.

Do I need to book?

In July and August yes for the well-known places, otherwise walk in.

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