Must-see restaurants in Iraklio

  • Peskesi

    Iraklio

    It's almost impossible to overstate how good Peskesi's resurrected, slow-cooked Cretan dishes are, nor the beauty of the revamped Venetian villa in which…

  • Parasties

    Iraklio

    Parasties’ owner, Haris, is genuine about serving great-quality local produce and top Cretan wines. And his passion shows in his gourmet menu of…

  • Merastri

    Iraklio

    Enjoying one of the most authentic Cretan meals in town, served in this stunning home (a former music building), is a highlight of dining in Iraklio. The…

  • Athali

    Iraklio

    This colourful, crowd-pleasing restaurant is a true family affair: Dad oversees a massive central open fire, roasting spits of succulent lamb and pork for…

  • Brillant/Herbs’ Garden

    Iraklio

    The avant-garde decor at Brillant, the fashionable culinary outpost at Lato Boutique Hotel, may almost distract you from the creatively composed, feistily…

  • Kannelos

    Iraklio

    Escape the touristy seafood restaurants for this speciality shop, which has nabbed its own wares with proprietary fishing boats since 1926. With around 40…

  • Phyllo Sophies

    Iraklio

    With tables sprawling towards the Morosini Fountain, this is a great place to sample bougatsa (creamy semolina pudding wrapped in a pastry envelope and…

  • Kouzeineri

    Iraklio

    Those seeking a traditional Greek meal might be disappointed here, but diners looking for an ultra-contemporary experience will be happy with the modern…

  • Ippokambos

    Iraklio

    This long-running ouzerie (place that serves ouzo and light snacks) just a stone's throw from the fish market specialises in fish – usually freshly caught…

  • O Vrakas

    Iraklio

    Along the waterfront on the tourist strip, this spot is neither grand nor out of the pages of a gourmet magazine, but it was started by the owner’s…

  • Kritikos Fournos

    Iraklio

    This fun cafe-bakery is a Cretan chain, and it's a dependable stop for good espresso (it opens at 6am!), baked goods, pastries and sandwiches (including…

  • Mare Cafe

    Iraklio

    In an enviable location on the beautified waterfront promenade opposite the Historical Museum, trendy Mare is great for seaside munchies (burgers, salads,…

  • Loukoumades

    Iraklio

    Come here for delicious, fluffy loukoumadhes (massive ball-shaped doughnuts drizzled with honey, sesame seeds and cinnamon). One serving easily feeds two …

  • Giakoumis

    Iraklio

    The oldest among the row of tavernas vying for business in a quiet passageway off Odos 1866, Giakoumis offers myriad mayirefta (ready-cooked meals) and…

  • Bitzarakis Bakery

    Iraklio

    Sells excellent freshly baked kalitsounia (lightly fried filled pastries) along with other traditional sweets made by a women’s cooperative.