Many things are being said about the much acclaimed Mediterranean diet and the beneficial effects the local Greek cuisine can have on health and well-being, and there is no better reference than the southern Greek island of Crete and its residents, who are famous for enjoying a prolonged lifespan and taking on a healthy Mediterranean eating lifestyle.
Ancient as this cooking tradition is, fine restaurants have recently emerged around the island, offering unique twists on age-old recipes. Take a look below at some of Crete’s most superb Greek restaurants that are worth dining at.
Akrogiali Fish Tavern (Chania)
The family-run fish restaurant Akrogiali (Greek for “coast”) offers exceptional traditional Cretan fish and seafood preparations, which are caught daily by the family’s own fishing boat for over four decades now. Voted one of the friendliest places to eat, this charming traditional restaurant also has a fabulous view on the Mediterranean clear-blue sea.
Avli (Rethymno)
At Avli (Greek for “courtyard), the very finest of culinary creativity goes along with strict traditionalist ideals, creating a taste of fusion at its best, while doing a great job in pleasing its guests. With an almost scientific approach, the restaurant dissects Cretan traditional cuisine to preserve it, as well as enhancing and artfully recreating it.
Taverna Goules (Goulediana)
Situated in the mountains between Rethymno and the coastal villages along the Libyan Sea, Taverna Goules is one of those places you never forget. Organically grown products are lovingly crafted into age-old Cretan dishes discovered by the owner in his mother’s old recipe drawer, combining lost herbs, spices, and flavors, into nutritionally perfect bits of gastronomical pleasure.
Marilena Restaurant (Elounda)
Once a quaint fishing village, the now glamorous resort of Elounda, east of Heraklion, is home to Marilena Restaurant, which keeps alive the best Crete has to offer. Family owned, and ultra hospitable, the restaurant has the distinction of offering both traditional Greek and Cypriot cuisine, a combination most visitors find delectable. Being around since the mid 70′s, Marilena is certainly one of Crete’s most famous eating spots.
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