Crete’s Chania is one of the greatest sites in Greece for superb traditional meals. You’ll discover not just your favorite Greek cuisine, but also genuine Cretan fare. I just spent a month eating my way around Chania to compile this list of the greatest Chania eateries.
One of my favorite aspects of Greek restaurants in general was their willingness to provide half quantities. Most restaurants in Chania provide enormous platters, so a half salad and a half meal was usually more than enough food!
One of the first things you’ll notice in Chania is how late the residents eat. Dinner in Crete is normally served at 9 p.m., although it may begin much later. It is not unusual to have supper after midnight. Meals arent rapidly digested theyre designed to be savored over: numerous courses enjoyed with friends and family over carafes of house wine. This is how I prefer to eat!
Hence, here are some of the most popular sites in the neighborhood. Enjoy!
When in Chania, don’t miss out on the following activities that will let you immerse yourself in the city (get them while they’re hot!):
- Day Trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania
- Chania: Boat Trip with Guided Snorkeling & Stand-Up Paddling
- The Miracle of Wine and Olive Oil: Day Tour from Chania
- From Chania: Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion
- Chania: Authentic Cooking Class in the White Mountains
Are you planning to visit other places in Greece? Check out our other tasty guides:
- The 8 Best Restaurants in Athens, Greece
- The Best Walking Food Tour Of Athens
- The Top 12 Best Greek Dishes
- 10 Amazing Things To Do In Greece
Contents
The Top 10 Restaurants in Chania
Portes
2821 076261Akti Papanikoli 1
I ate at Portes more than anyplace else during my month in Chania. The menu features traditional Greek and current Cretan dishes, as well as some intriguing variations on those classics. The restaurant features two levels of outdoor seating on top of its interior dining space. If you arrive early for supper, request a table on the top deck, where you may enjoy some spectacular sunset views.
My personal favorites are the tomato fritters, filled zucchini blossoms, grilled octopus, and fava. Don’t forget to get some house wine to accompany your meal. Portes offers the greatest house wines of any Chania restaurant I’ve visited.
Additionally, inquire about any daily specials, particularly their fresh seafood alternatives. Even though I never saw it on the menu, if the fish burger is on the menu, you must get it. To be honest, anything you order will be delicious.
Enetikon
+30 2821 088270Zampeliou 57Zampeliou 57
This is one of the first places I found that serves half meals, and it is located in the center of Chania’s old town. I came multiple times to try more of their menu items. The nice staff contributed significantly to my frequent trips, and by my second dinner there, the waitress was treating me like a regular. She even recalls what I previously purchased.
I recommend the lamb since Enetikon is famed for its roasted meat specialties. Alternatively, like most of the lovely restaurants on the island, you can’t go wrong with seafood dishes made with local ingredients, such as Crete snails in rosemary!
Go for the steamed mussels if you’re not feeling adventurous but still want to eat seafood.
Woodstock
+30 2821 0957722, 1 Akti Papanikoli
I’m sure Woodstock offers delicious dinners, but I’ve only ever gone for breakfast or brunch. From seats overlooking the water, they get one of the greatest views of the port. They also provide excellent service.
If you want to start your day with a sweet treat, there are pancakes and waffles to choose from. In addition, my coffee-drinking acquaintance said that the cup he was holding had some of the greatest coffee in Chania.
If you like something savory (like me), I suggest the spinach and chicken omelet with crispy roasted potatoes.
Restaurant Serving Vegetarian Food Vegan Pulse Recipe
697 879 2721 Theotokopoulou 70
Since my flat was just above Pulse, I was able to sample a large portion of their menu. This isn’t your ordinary vegetarian or vegan fare.
The chef-owner has put a lot of attention into developing unique (but most importantly, excellent) menu items like Portobello burgers with sushi rice buns, a mushroom risotto that my buddy is still talking about months later, and this carrot lox with handmade cashew cream cheese:
From lunch to supper, Pulse offers a comprehensive menu. The restaurant has a relaxed ambience and is situated on the outskirts of Old Town. It nearly seems like you’re dining on a friend’s patio, and it lends itself to extended conversations over wine.
Even if you don’t believe you like vegan or vegetarian food, come in and give it a go; I think you’ll be pleasantly pleased.
Ageri Thalasino
Viilaki 35 +30 2821 051136
This was one of my favorite eating experiences on Chania, if not the best. You should certainly reserve a table since the views are spectacular:
I sat over the river many times throughout my stay, having a nice supper and watching the wonderful sunset while sipping on house wine. I can’t wait to return.
The menu includes a variety of fresh seafood priced by the kilo or dish. Anything from grilled swordfish to fried shark, grilled or fried sardines, octopus, and even lobster may be found here.
This is an excellent location for an anniversary or birthday supper.
The Ginger Idea
+30 2821 057590 36 Sarpaki
Ginger Concept is open all day, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy their delectable food. Start your day with designer toast choices including a Reuben with grilled beef or smoked salmon and avocado toast with horseradish cream cheese.
A Croque Madame prepared with Edam cheese, a Spanish omelet loaded with chorizo sausage, and their own take on a traditional Greek breakfast are all on the menu.
You may also request yogurt or acai bowls for a lighter start to the day.
Later in the day, stop by for aperitivo to sample their extensive menu of tapas coupled with wine or a drink from their outstanding selection.
If you want something more substantial than tapas, they also provide pizza, spaghetti, and even beef bourguignon.
Tamam
+30 2821 096080Zampeliou 51Zampeliou 51
You’ll most certainly come across Tamam while wandering the alleyways of Chania’s ancient town. As you pass by, stop in to make a reservation since this eatery fills up rapidly at night.
Tamam’s menu is inspired by traditional Greek Sunday dinners, which means you’ll discover classic, homestyle dishes created with high quality local ingredients.
Try the rabbit in sweet wine with rosemary, the basmati rice with dried fruits and vegetables, or one of their many excellently executed seafood dishes.
Their wine selection includes numerous Greek wines, with a concentration on Crete bottles. Be sure to ask your server for a wine recommendation for your meal.
Evgonia
Milonogianni 120 +30 2821 059420Milonogianni 120
Evgonia is a little out of the way, but it is definitely worth the effort to discover. This is a terrific restaurant for typical neighborhood cuisine, with a menu that isn’t huge but does include some classic Greek favorites. If you’re eating alone, you probably don’t need a salad, appetizer, and main course. This is something I found for myself! If you’re a solitary diner or your table doesn’t want to divide, inquire about half servings.
I’d also suggest you inquire about any specials. The staff would gladly walk you through the menu and provide recommendations. I essentially let the owner order for me, and in the end, I got some of the greatest roasted octopus I’d tasted on the island:
The Well of Turks
+30 2821 054547 1 Sarpaki
Its menu is an eclectic blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern food, and this description is accurate.
Slow-cooked local lamb with preserved lemons served over couscous, shish kebabs with an avocado and orange salad, lamb pizzas, or this vegetarian moussaka are all available here.
If the weather permits, take a seat on the outside terrace. They’re in a calmer portion of Chania’s old town, and it’s a lovely spot to unwind and relax after a long day of sightseeing.
EPE Kouzina ( …)
+30 2821 042391Daskalogianni 25
This restaurant, which provides a daily changing menu of handmade options, is one of my favorite spots in town to sample true, no frills homestyle Greek cuisine. Kouzina is an excellent choice for lunch or a light meal. The meals are made using local ingredients and cooked in the manner of a Greek grandmother.
Inquire with the waitress about what’s available that day; they’ll be pleased to show you what’s behind the lids of pots.
My personal favorite was a beef chickpea dish with tomato sauce. Make a point of looking for it when you come!
Now that I’ve covered your meals, here are some of my favorite bars in Chania:
Shattered Dreams Boulevard
+30 2821 052685Gavaladon 41
This Old Town jazz bar provides amazing beverages and huge amounts of wine. What more do you require? This quickly became my favorite spot in Chania (and it didnt hurt that it was located literally right out the front door of my apartment). I like their laid-back atmosphere, fantastic music, and unique drinks.
Fagotto Jazz Club
Aggelou 16 +30 2821 071877
Numerous residents have said that this is their favorite pub in town and where they go to relax. Another jazz bar that serves excellent drinks. Fagotto is nestled discreetly behind the Maritime Museum. Fagotto also appears to be one of the bars open the latest in the surrounding region, making for a wonderful stop on the way home for one more drink.
While I’ve never had the opportunity to taste it, I’ve heard Fagotto also offers a delicious breakfast.
Which of these Chania finest restaurants do you wish to try the most? Please share your thoughts in the comments box below!
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