Rethymno is a beautiful town located on the island of Crete. It is a stunning area with gorgeous beaches and natural beauty, but what stands out here is the culinary landscape of local cuisine and its restaurants.
This post will guide you through our top picks of the best places to eat in Rethymno, highlighting must-try dishes and traditional meals. No matter if you are wandering along the streets of the old town or looking for a seaside dining experience, Rethymo is a food lovers’ paradise catering to all!
Dining in Rethymno
What we love about dining in Retthymno is that it has a diverse landscape of food and restaurants, mixing traditional Greek flavours and ingredients with modern innovations. Undoubtedly, you can find traditional Greek taverns influenced by the town’s rich history, fresh local produce and the Mediterranean.
Must-try traditional dishes in Rethymno
You cannot visit Rethymno without trying some of the region’s traditional dishes. These meals provide a real taste into Creten life and tradition as many of these recipes have been passed down from generation to generation on the island. The local cuisine is a blend of flavours and ingredients from past civilizations that have influenced Crete over the centuries.
Dakos
An appetizer that you can find at any Cretan restaurant, dakos is a dish made from barley rusk or dried bread, tomatoes, feta cheese, olives and of course, local extra virgin olive oil. It is usually garnished with oregano and capers and is the perfect fresh mezze for a summer day!
Kalitsounia
These are small cheese and herb pies that are specifically associated with the island of Crete. Kalitsounia can be either sweet or savoury, depending on the filling. The savoury version of the fried pie is usually filled with herbs, spinach, and local cheeses like feta or mizithra. The dough is flaky and is typically served as a mezze or snack.
Lamb with stamnagathi
This is a classic meal found on Crete, which is a plate of tender lamb cooked with Stamnagathi (wild chicory). Wild chicory grows on the island and resembles dandelion leaves. The dish is typically seasoned with a lemon and olive oil sauce with fresh herbs and represents an authentic Cretan plate.
Sfakianopita
To be enjoyed either as a mezze or dessert, this traditional Cretan cheese pie is made with a thin, soft dough and filled with mizithra cheese, then drizzled with honey. Originally coming from the region of Sfakia, the combination of salty cheese with sweet honey makes each bite delightful! Our recommendation is to enjoy it with a cup of Greek coffee.
Top rated restaurants in Rethymno
There are many top-rated restaurants in Rethymnon, each offering a unique dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual bite with friends, these restaurants are the perfect place to enjoy the local cuisine.
Lemonokipos
Lemonokipos is a quaint restaurant located in the heart of Rethymnon’s old town. It offers a blend of traditional Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, all locally sourced. The restaurant’s name Lemonokipos translates to “Lemon Garden,” and lives up to its name as the restaurant’s outdoor dining is in a beautiful garden filled with lemon trees and flowers. The ambience is charming and ideal for a romantic dinner. Popular dishes on the menu include fresh grilled fish and tartar, but Lemonokipos is arguably better known for its amazing wine list.
Goules
For an authentic Cretan experience, you must visit Goules. This is a rustic tavern located outside of the town’s centre. It is ideal for intimate get-togethers with family and friends as the taverna itself is decorated with traditional elements, feeling like home. Goules prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including herbs, vegetables, and meats from nearby farms. The menu offers slow-cooked lamb, grilled fish, and a variety of mezzes perfect for sharing. They even make their own tsikoudia from local grapes.
Pigadi
Set in a courtyard that will make you feel like you are in a different era, Pigadi serves a range of traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s name means “Well” in Greek, which you can find in the courtyard. The restaurant is located in a historic Venetian building, and the outdoor dining area is breathtaking! The menu is diverse here as you can find many traditional dishes with creative modern influences, ranging from seafood and grilled meats to vegetarian options.
Thalasses
If you are looking for a higher-end experience and the most pristine fresh seafood, then Thalasses is your go-to option. The restaurant is located on the seaside, with some stunning views of the Aegean Sea from their terrace and glass-walled windows. The menu has a wide array of dishes such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, and the daily catch of the day. Thalasses sources its seafood from local fishermen, ensuring that every dish is fresh and flavorful. Make sure to call ahead to reserve your table here.
Athivoles
If you are looking to immerse yourself in Cretan tradition, then eating at Athivoles is a true experience. Apart from its rustic style and decor, the outdoor seating area is full of wild vegetation, a waterfall and even a shark tank with sturgeon swimming around as you eat! Traditional Cretan and Greek menu items can be found here such as moussaka and dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lamb roast on an open pit. The staff is known to be very friendly and they even host traditional nights where dancers perform, providing dinner and a show.
Come and enjoy Rethymno restaurants
In Rethymno, you are sure to enjoy the culinary scene as it’s a testament to the island’s cultural heritage and homegrown ingredients. From traditional tavernas to modern eateries, there is something for every palate.
To make your visit to Rethymno even more memorable, don’t forget to book your accommodation through Oreo Travel. Our extensive selection of holiday rentals will guarantee that you can find the perfect place to stay while exploring the best restaurants in Rethymno. Bon appétit!
