Chania Restaurants are a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a wide range of dining experiences, from traditional Greek tavernas to international cuisine. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants in Chania’s old town, each offering a unique and delightful culinary experience.
1. Tamam: A Taste of Authentic Crete
Tamam is a beloved restaurant located in the heart of Chania’s old town, housed in a beautifully restored 14th-century building. It’s a place where tradition and innovation come together to create a memorable dining experience. The menu at Tamam is inspired by traditional Cretan and Greek recipes, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like lamb with honey and thyme, stuffed vine leaves, and moussaka are prepared with a modern twist, making them both comforting and exquisite. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall charm of Tamam.
2. To Kaniski: A Hidden Gem with a View
For a hidden gem with spectacular views of Chania’s old harbor, To Kaniski is the place to go. This restaurant offers a peaceful and romantic setting, away from the bustling streets of the old town. You can enjoy traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine while taking in the stunning harbor views. Seafood is a highlight here, with fresh catches prepared in various delectable ways. Their grilled octopus is particularly recommended, as are their lamb dishes. With attentive service and a selection of local wines, To Kaniski is a top choice for a memorable evening.
3. Chrisostomos: The Essence of Cretan Gastronomy
At Chrisostomos, you’ll find a true taste of Cretan gastronomy. This restaurant specializes in dishes that showcase the pure flavors of Crete, using high-quality local ingredients. The menu includes classics like dakos (rusk topped with tomatoes, feta, and olive oil) and boureki (a pie made with zucchini and potatoes), along with creative dishes that combine tradition with innovation. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with the knowledgeable staff, makes dining at Chrisostomos an experience to savor.
4. Salis: A Culinary Journey through Greece
Salis is a restaurant that offers a culinary journey through Greece, featuring a diverse menu that highlights dishes from various regions of the country. The menu is carefully curated to include a wide range of Greek flavors, from the islands to the mainland. Here, you can explore dishes like pastitsio (a Greek pasta dish with meat and bechamel sauce), souvlaki, and fresh fish. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance and friendly staff make it a great choice for those looking to explore the flavors of Greece in one place.
5. Ta Chalkina: A Hidden Courtyard Oasis
Ta Chalkina is tucked away in a hidden courtyard within the old town’s maze of charming streets. This restaurant’s serene ambiance and elegant decor make it a peaceful oasis for a leisurely meal. The menu at Ta Chalkina offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Cretan flavors. Fresh seafood, succulent meats, and seasonal vegetables are combined to create dishes that are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. The courtyard setting, surrounded by greenery and flowers, adds to the overall charm of the dining experience.
6. Portes: A Gourmet Experience
Portes is a restaurant that caters to those seeking a gourmet dining experience in the heart of Chania’s old town. It’s known for its upscale ambiance and a menu that reflects a fusion of Greek and international cuisines. Dishes at Portes are carefully crafted with attention to detail and presentation. The wine selection is extensive, allowing you to pair your meal with a fine Greek or international wine. The attentive service and elegant decor make Portes an excellent choice for a special evening out.
7. To Karnagio: A Seaside Gem
For a dining experience right by the sea, To Karnagio is a must-visit restaurant. This picturesque seaside establishment offers stunning views of Chania’s old lighthouse and the Venetian harbor. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish, octopus, and seafood pasta. You can enjoy your meal while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves and taking in the beautiful sunset. To Karnagio’s relaxing atmosphere and delectable seafood make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
8. Oinomageiremata: Wine and Dine
Oinomageiremata is a restaurant that combines the pleasures of dining with a love for wine. The establishment prides itself on its wine selection, which pairs perfectly with its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The menu showcases a variety of meze (small dishes) that allow you to explore different flavors, along with larger plates of fish, lamb, and more. The cozy and rustic atmosphere, along with the knowledgeable staff, makes Oinomageiremata a delightful choice for wine and food enthusiasts.
9. Chrisostomos: Traditional Greek Flavors
Chrisostomos is a quaint little restaurant in Chania’s old town that offers a genuine taste of traditional Greek flavors. The menu features classic Greek dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The focus here is on hearty, home-cooked meals that will make you feel like you’re dining at a Greek grandmother’s kitchen. Try their lamb dishes or the famous moussaka, and finish your meal with a slice of homemade baklava. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Chrisostomos makes it a top choice for a cozy and authentic Greek meal.
10. Portes: A Culinary Gem
Portes is a hidden culinary gem located in the heart of Chania’s old town. This restaurant offers an intimate and cozy dining experience with a focus on Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features an array of dishes that showcase the richness of local ingredients, including fresh seafood, succulent meats, and vegetarian options. The restaurant’s passionate and knowledgeable staff can guide you through the menu and suggest the perfect wine pairing for your meal. The charming atmosphere and attention to detail make Portes a dining destination that captures the essence of Crete.
11. Diporto: A Local Taverna Experience
For an authentic Greek taverna experience, head to Diporto. This unassuming yet charming eatery offers traditional Cretan and Greek dishes in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Diporto is known for its grilled meats, fresh salads, and delicious meze that pair perfectly with a glass of ouzo or local wine. The no-frills approach, friendly service, and reasonable prices make this taverna a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
12. Portes: A Taste of Mediterranean Fusion
Portes is a restaurant that offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Cretan flavors in a contemporary and stylish setting. The menu at Portes combines local ingredients with creative culinary techniques to create dishes that are both visually appealing and full of flavor. The restaurant’s wine selection is extensive, allowing you to find the perfect pairing for your meal. The ambiance at Portes is upscale, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a memorable night out.
13. Ela: Greek Cuisine with a Twist
Ela is a restaurant that puts a modern twist on traditional Greek cuisine, resulting in a delightful fusion of flavors. The menu features a range of dishes that incorporate local ingredients and flavors, offering a unique dining experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Ela can guide you through the menu and help you explore the creative combinations of ingredients. The contemporary and relaxed atmosphere makes Ela a great choice for those looking for a fresh take on Greek cuisine.
14. Tamam: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Tamam is a restaurant that beautifully balances tradition and innovation in its approach to Greek and Cretan cuisine. The menu at Tamam draws inspiration from classic Greek recipes while adding a modern twist. Dishes like moussaka, lamb with honey and thyme, and stuffed vine leaves are prepared with a creative touch. The restaurant is housed in a 14th-century building, and its warm and inviting atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience. The friendly staff is also known for their exceptional service.
15. Salis: A Journey through Greek Flavors
Salis is a restaurant that takes you on a culinary journey through Greece, offering a diverse menu that showcases dishes from various regions of the country. The menu at Salis is carefully curated to include a wide range of Greek flavors, from the islands to the mainland. You can explore dishes like pastitsio, souvlaki, and fresh fish. The inviting ambiance and friendly staff make Salis a great choice for those looking to explore the flavors of Greece.
16. Tavern Strata: A Rustic Gem
Tavern Strata is a rustic gem in Chania’s old town, known for its authentic Greek taverna experience. The restaurant features a cozy courtyard where you can enjoy traditional Cretan dishes and Greek meze. The menu includes grilled meats, fresh salads, and classic Greek specialties like moussaka and pastitsio. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere at Tavern Strata makes it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
17. Pigadi: A Seafood Paradise
For seafood lovers, Pigadi is a paradise. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, prepared in a variety of ways to suit every palate. Whether you prefer grilled fish, seafood pasta, or octopus, Pigadi has you covered. The restaurant’s setting, right by the sea, provides a picturesque backdrop for your meal. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make Pigadi a top choice for seafood enthusiasts.
18. Mesostrato: Fusion of Mediterranean Flavors
Mesostrato offers a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, blending traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine with creative and modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s menu features an array of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, succulent meats, and vegetarian options. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and attentive service add to the overall charm of Mesostrato, making it a great choice for a memorable dining experience.
19. Karnagio: A Hidden Seaside Delight
Karnagio is a hidden seaside delight in Chania’s old town, offering spectacular views of the Venetian harbor and lighthouse. The menu at Karnagio focuses on fresh seafood, prepared in a variety of mouthwatering ways. Whether you choose grilled octopus or a seafood pasta, the flavors are sure to impress. The relaxing atmosphere and the soothing sound of the waves make Karnagio an ideal spot for a memorable meal by the sea.
20. Palazzo Almare: A Mediterranean Oasis
Palazzo Almare is a Mediterranean oasis located within the charming streets of Chania’s old town. The restaurant offers a menu that reflects the richness of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, using local ingredients to create delectable dishes. The courtyard setting, with its lush greenery and soothing ambiance, adds to the overall charm of Palazzo Almare. Whether you’re dining indoors or under the stars, the experience is one of relaxation and enjoyment.
21. The Well of the Turk: A Historic Setting
The Well of the Turk is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience in a historic setting. Housed in a 15th-century building with a well in its courtyard, this establishment offers an intriguing and charming ambiance. The menu at The Well of the Turk is a journey through Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on Cretan and Greek cuisine. The attentive service and delightful atmosphere make dining here a unique and memorable experience.
22. La Bodega: A Taste of Spain in Crete
La Bodega offers a taste of Spain right in the heart of Chania’s old town. If you’re looking for something different, this Spanish restaurant is a delightful choice. The menu features an array of tapas, paellas, and other Spanish specialties, along with an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. The modern and stylish setting, along with the attentive staff, makes La Bodega a unique dining destination in the old town.
23. Semiramis: An International Culinary Adventure
Semiramis is an international restaurant in Chania’s old town, offering a diverse menu that takes you on a culinary adventure around the world. From Mediterranean dishes to Asian flavors, the menu is a fusion of international cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pasta, or a juicy steak, Semiramis has something to satisfy your cravings. The contemporary ambiance and attentive service add to the overall dining experience.
24. Oinomageiremata: Wine and Culinary Bliss
Oinomageiremata is a restaurant that combines the pleasures of wine and culinary bliss. The establishment prides itself on its wine selection, offering a variety of local and international wines to complement your meal. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, using high-quality ingredients to create flavors that are both comforting and exquisite. The contemporary and relaxed setting makes Oinomageiremata a great choice for those seeking a harmonious pairing of wine and food.
25. Portes: A Culinary Journey
Portes offers a culinary journey through Cretan and Mediterranean flavors in a contemporary and stylish setting. The menu showcases a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on fresh seafood, succulent meats, and vegetarian options. The extensive wine selection allows you to find the perfect pairing for your meal. The upscale ambiance and attentive staff make Portes a dining destination that captures the essence of Crete’s culinary heritage.
26. Chaniotiko Palio: A Traditional Greek Experience
Chaniotiko Palio is a restaurant that offers a traditional Greek dining experience, with a focus on Cretan and Mediterranean flavors. The menu features classic Greek dishes prepared with care and attention to detail. From souvlaki to fresh seafood, the restaurant provides a variety of options to suit different tastes. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with friendly service, makes Chaniotiko Palio a great choice for those looking for an authentic and delicious Greek meal.
27. Kariatis: A Cozy Taverna
Kariatis is a cozy taverna in Chania’s old town, offering traditional Greek and Cretan dishes. The menu includes classics like moussaka, grilled meats, and fresh salads. The restaurant’s unpretentious ambiance and friendly service create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Kariatis is a great choice for those who appreciate a straightforward and delicious Greek meal.
28. Diporto: A Charming Greek Taverna
Diporto is a charming Greek taverna that captures the essence of traditional Cretan and Greek cuisine. The menu features classic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and hearty stews. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make Diporto a popular choice for those looking to experience the warmth and flavors of Greek hospitality.
29. Oinoa: A Wine and Food Lover’s Paradise
Oinoa is a wine and food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse menu that pairs perfectly with an extensive selection of local and international wines. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean-inspired dishes, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From seafood to succulent meats, the menu at Oinoa is a culinary journey that caters to various tastes. The modern and stylish setting, along with attentive service, makes Oinoa a top choice for wine and food enthusiasts.
30. Tamarind: A Taste of the East in Crete
Tamarind offers a taste of the East in the heart of Chania’s old town. This Asian-inspired restaurant is known for its flavorsome dishes that incorporate the spices and ingredients of the East. The menu features a variety of Asian specialties, from sushi to Thai curries, along with creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. The contemporary ambiance and friendly staff make Tamarind a unique dining destination for those seeking a taste of the East in Crete.
31. Tamam: Tradition and Modernity in Harmony
Tamam is a restaurant where tradition and modernity come together to create a harmonious dining experience. The menu at Tamam is inspired by traditional Cretan and Greek recipes, with a contemporary twist. Dishes like lamb with honey and thyme, stuffed vine leaves, and moussaka are prepared with attention to detail. The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff add to the overall charm of Tamam, making it a restaurant where tradition and modernity are in perfect harmony.
32. Oinomageiremata: A Wine and Culinary Delight
Oinomageiremata is a restaurant that marries the pleasures of wine and culinary delight. The establishment is known for its diverse wine selection, offering a range of local and international wines to complement your meal. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, using high-quality ingredients to create flavors that are both comforting and exquisite. The contemporary and relaxed setting makes Oinomageiremata a top choice for those seeking a harmonious pairing of wine and food.
33. Chaniotiko Palio: A Culinary Journey
Chaniotiko Palio is a restaurant that offers a culinary journey through traditional Greek and Cretan flavors. The menu features classic Greek dishes prepared with care and a focus on high-quality ingredients. From souvlaki to fresh seafood, the restaurant provides a variety of options to suit different tastes. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with friendly service, makes Chaniotiko Palio a great choice for those looking for an authentic and delicious Greek meal.
34. Semiramis: International Flavors
Semiramis is an international restaurant in Chania’s old town, offering a diverse menu that explores flavors from around the world. From Mediterranean dishes to Asian-inspired creations, the menu is a fusion of international cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pasta, or a hearty steak, Semiramis has something for every palate. The contemporary ambiance and attentive service make Semiramis a unique dining destination in the old town.
35. Kariatis: A Cozy and Authentic Taverna
Kariatis is a cozy and authentic taverna in Chania’s old town, offering traditional Greek and Cretan dishes. The menu includes classic Greek dishes such as moussaka, grilled meats, and fresh salads. The unpretentious ambiance and friendly service create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Kariatis is a great choice for those who appreciate straightforward and delicious Greek cuisine.
36. Tavern Strata: A Rustic and Charming Eatery
Tavern Strata is a rustic and charming eatery in Chania’s old town that provides an authentic Greek taverna experience. The restaurant features a welcoming courtyard where you can enjoy traditional Cretan dishes and Greek meze. The menu includes grilled meats, fresh salads, and classic Greek specialties like moussaka and pastitsio. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere at Tavern Strata makes it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
37. Palazzo Almare: A Mediterranean Retreat
Palazzo Almare is a Mediterranean retreat located within the enchanting streets of Chania’s old town. The restaurant offers a menu that reflects the richness of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, using local ingredients to create delectable dishes. Whether you’re dining indoors or under the stars in the courtyard, the experience is one of relaxation and enjoyment. The charming and soothing atmosphere at Palazzo Almare adds to the overall dining experience.
38. The Well of the Turk: A Historic Dining Experience
The Well of the Turk is not just a restaurant; it’s a historic dining experience. Housed in a 15th-century building with a well in its courtyard, this establishment offers an intriguing and charming ambiance. The menu at The Well of the Turk is a journey through Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on Cretan and Greek cuisine. The attentive service and delightful atmosphere make dining here a unique and memorable experience.
39. La Bodega: Spanish Flavors in Crete
La Bodega is a restaurant that brings the flavors of Spain to Crete. This Spanish eatery offers an array of tapas, paellas, and other Spanish specialties, along with an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. The modern and stylish setting, along with the attentive staff, makes La Bodega a unique dining destination in the old town.
40. Pigadi: Seafood Delight by the Sea
For seafood lovers, Pigadi is a delightful choice. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, prepared in various mouthwatering ways. Whether you choose grilled fish, seafood pasta, or octopus, the flavors are sure to impress. The restaurant’s setting, right by the sea, provides a picturesque backdrop for your meal. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make Pigadi a top choice for seafood enthusiasts.
41. Mesostrato: Fusion of Mediterranean Flavors
Mesostrato offers a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, blending traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine with creative and modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, succulent meats, and vegetarian options. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and attentive service add to the overall charm of Mesostrato, making it a great choice for a memorable dining experience.
42. Tamarind: Asian Flavors in Crete
Tamarind offers a taste of the East in the heart of Chania’s old town. This Asian-inspired restaurant is known for its flavorsome dishes that incorporate the spices and ingredients of the East. The menu features a variety of Asian specialties, from sushi to Thai curries, along with creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. The contemporary ambiance and friendly staff make Tamarind a unique dining destination for those seeking a taste of the East in Crete.
43. Tamam: Tradition and Innovation Combined
Tamam is a restaurant where tradition and innovation come together to create a harmonious dining experience. The menu at Tamam is inspired by traditional Cretan and Greek recipes, with a contemporary twist. Dishes like lamb with honey and thyme, stuffed vine leaves, and moussaka are prepared with attention to detail. The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff add to the overall charm of Tamam, making it a restaurant where tradition and modernity are in perfect harmony.
44. Oinomageiremata: A Wine and Culinary Delight
Oinomageiremata is a restaurant that combines the pleasures of wine and culinary delight. The establishment is known for its diverse wine selection, offering a range of local and international wines to complement your meal. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, using high-quality ingredients to create flavors that are both comforting and exquisite. The contemporary and relaxed setting makes Oinomageiremata a top choice for those seeking a harmonious pairing of wine and food.
45. Chaniotiko Palio: An Authentic Greek Experience
Chaniotiko Palio is a restaurant that offers an authentic Greek dining experience, with a focus on Cretan and Mediterranean flavors. The menu features classic Greek dishes prepared with care and a focus on high-quality ingredients. From souvlaki to fresh seafood, the restaurant provides a variety of options to suit different tastes. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with friendly service, makes Chaniotiko Palio a great choice for those looking for an authentic and delicious Greek meal.
46. Semiramis: International Flavors
Semiramis is an international restaurant in Chania’s old town, offering a diverse menu that explores flavors from around the world. From Mediterranean dishes to Asian-inspired creations, the menu is a fusion of international cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pasta, or a hearty steak, Semiramis has something for every palate. The contemporary ambiance and attentive service make Semiramis a unique dining destination in the old town.
47. Kariatis: A Cozy and Authentic Taverna
Kariatis is a cozy and authentic taverna in Chania’s old town, offering traditional Greek and Cretan dishes. The menu includes classic Greek dishes such as moussaka, grilled meats, and fresh salads. The unpretentious ambiance and friendly service create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Kariatis is a great choice for those who appreciate straightforward and delicious Greek cuisine.
48. Tavern Strata: A Rustic and Charming Eatery
Tavern Strata is a rustic and charming eatery in Chania’s old town that provides an authentic Greek taverna experience. The restaurant features a welcoming courtyard where you can enjoy traditional Cretan dishes and Greek meze. The menu includes grilled meats, fresh salads, and classic Greek specialties like moussaka and pastitsio. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere at Tavern Strata makes it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
49. Palazzo Almare: A Mediterranean Retreat
Palazzo Almare is a Mediterranean retreat located within the enchanting streets of Chania’s old town. The restaurant offers a menu that reflects the richness of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, using local ingredients to create delectable dishes. Whether you’re dining indoors or under the stars in the courtyard, the experience is one of relaxation and enjoyment. The charming and soothing atmosphere at Palazzo Almare adds to the overall dining experience.
50. The Well of the Turk: A Historic Dining Experience
The Well of the Turk is not just a restaurant; it’s a historic dining experience. Housed in a 15th-century building with a well in its courtyard, this establishment offers an intriguing and charming ambiance. The menu at The Well of the Turk is a journey through Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on Cretan and Greek cuisine. The attentive service and delightful atmosphere make dining here a unique and memorable experience.
Conclusion
Chania’s old town is a culinary paradise, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for traditional Cretan and Greek flavors, international cuisine, or a taste of the East, the old town has something to offer. The restaurants mentioned in this guide represent just a selection of the many dining establishments that make Chania’s old town a destination for food enthusiasts. From the picturesque harbor views at To Kaniski to the historical charm of Tamam, there’s a wealth of culinary experiences waiting to be explored in this beautiful corner of Crete. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, these restaurants are sure to provide a memorable and delightful dining experience in Chania’s old town.