Crete’s natural beauty is equaled only by the richness of its history. This unique nature, a fruitful blend of sun, sea and the mountain terrain inspired Cretan people to develop their own culinary scene which was also the foundation of the Mediterranean diet. The cuisine has a real personality and undeniable local style sourced by ingredients such as the virgin olive oil, herbs and cheese. Small taverns in local farms, distinguished restaurants and wineries all leave their mark with a secret element: the Cretan soul. In search for the best restaurants in Chania, the below restaurants definitely worth visiting:
Gramvoussa Restaurant
The restaurant is named after the peninsula of Gramvoussa at the northwestern part of Crete Island, nearby the famous beach of Balos. It’s not big, it’s not showy, but it has great views and an amazing garden with a homey atmosphere. The dishes are based on mostly organic produce such as fresh vegetables, virgin Cretan olive oil, thyme honey, local herbs and local meat and fish while the recipes are originating back to early 18th century Cretan diet. The restaurant is famous for the veal with tomato and local pasta and the rabbit wrapped in lemon leaves.
Dounias Restaurant
The restaurant is cited near the village Drakona, a few kilometres after Therissos village and the stunning gorge under the same name. A little bit the ambience of the place, the location, the friendly but also loud owner and the homegrown food, create a culinary experience close to the Cretan heart. The restaurant has been awarded the Quality label of the Cretan Cuisine, while the owner and cook Mr. Trilirakis has created a menu to revive flavors from older generations, creating the gastronomy center for the Cretan diet called Dounias. The cook/owner only uses ingredients produced by his family or fellow villagers while his signature dishes include chicken with noodles and stuffed zucchini blossoms. A highlight is the kitchen with chimney – corners, wood solves and the wood oven.
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
The restaurant is cited in Tabakaria Chania, the old quarter of Halepa. The scenery with the vacant industrial buildings on the background and the uninterrupted sea view is cinematic and quite unique. A table next to the sea is highly recommended. The menu is based on fresh fish and make sure you try lobster with pasta, fried shark with garlic sauce and fried sardines.
