5 Best Restaurants in Heraklion, Crete

Peskesi

$ Fodor's choice
In a restored sea captain's mansion, stone walls and arches provide the backdrop to some of the best food in Crete: traditional cuisine brought to life with modern techniques and presentation. A 60-acre farm in Harasso is dedicated to supplying the restaurant with seasonal local produce, much of it organic, and the flavors really shine through. Stand-out bread arrives in a wooden drawer, salads are creative, and there is pure theater when Syglino, smoked pork chop, is bought to the table in a paper bag with smouldering thyme and sage leaves. Sensational cheeses, plentiful vegan and vegetarian options, and a brilliant wine list make this a must-go destination. Reservations are needed in high season as it gets very busy.

Crumb

$
Handily placed for mid-shopping treats, Crumb serves not only great coffee but also the best healthy options in Heraklion. The shaded outside tables are an ideal place to reflect and recharge before returning to the fray.
Café Quick Bite $
Kallergon square 11, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
28102-28877
Known For
  • healthy cooking---great for vegans and vegetarians
  • lactose-free, gluten-free, sugar-free all available
  • South American coffee is some of the best in town

Erganos

$

One of Heraklion's most traditional restaurants, just by Kazantzaki park, serves authentic local fare, mainly to a local crowd, far removed from the tourist havens in the center. Mouthwatering bite-sized sfakianopita (pies), filled with cheese and honey, are a classic true taste of Crete, and the lamb and goat are always popular, as are tremendous keftedes (meatballs). The dining room is cozy, especially in colder seasons when the fireplace is lit, and the generous welcome is equally as warming.

Greek Lunch Dinner $
G. Georgiadou 5, Heraklion, Crete, 71202, Greece
28102-85629
Known For
  • traditional Cretan cuisine
  • outdoor terrace for summer evenings
  • hospitable staff
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted

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Ippokambos

$$

In a modern wood-and-glass conservatory overlooking the Koules, this Heraklion institution serves some of the best fish in town, with the waves only a stone's throw away. Ask a local for a recommendation and they will invariably mention Ippokambos. Family-run with an unflustered spirit, the dishes are simple and well executed, the house white perfectly acceptable, and the portions generous. It takes skill and confidence in your raw materials to present food so honestly.

Seafood Lunch Dinner $$
Sofokli Venizelou 3, Heraklion, Crete, 71302, Greece
28102-80240
Known For
  • the freshest local fish and seafood
  • generous portions
  • seafront setting

KirKor 1922

$

Stop into this venerable old bougatsa shop for an envelope of flaky pastry that's either filled with a sweet, creamy filling and dusted with cinnamon and sugar, or stuffed with soft white cheese. A portion of each, served warm with Greek coffee, is a nice treat. Thick Cretan yogurt and ice cream are other indulgences on offer. KirKor is the classic place to hang out after getting off the night boat from Piraeus and the museums and businesses are yet to open.

Café Quick Bite $
Platia Liontarion, Heraklion, Crete, 71202, Greece
28102-42705
Known For
  • Greek pastries
  • Cretan-style yogurt
  • open early