The Best Restaurants In Chania, Crete

Chania, the capital of Crete, offers typical island scenery. This Greek island settlement is not only famous for its past, but also for its present, including the delicious local dishes. Chania offers a rich culinary scene with a variety of dining options – and make sure that you book in advance especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure a table at the restaurant of your choice. We take you to our top culinary options in Chania.
Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.
Chalkina

After having a walk in the old city of Chania, you can have a seat in Chalkina. This place is located just before Megalo Arsenali on the road to Neorio. Here you can enjoy some local delicacies. The staff is friendly and the spaces of the restaurant nicely decorated. The local Cretan cuisine, with delicious mezes and more, won’t let you down. Taste the classic specialty of hohlioi bourbouristoi (escargots) and drink some tsikoudia or rakomelo. Just beware of the fact that this is quite strong alcohol.
To Monastiri Tou Karolou
This is one of the most beautiful cafe-restaurants in the narrow street of Chatzimichalis Dalianis. The building where the restaurant is located is of special historical importance, dating back to the 16th century. Then, it used to function as a Catholic monastery. After the invasion of the Turks in 1645, the monastery was turned into residencies. Nowadays it is being renovated with care and respect to its identity. On the first floor you will find an exhibition space and a studio of sculptural art. The restaurant is located on the ground flood and has a wonderful exterior space, with natural shadow from its trees.
63o Mezedoscholeio
One of the most recently established restaurants in the old city of Chania is 630 Mezedoscholeio. The traditional local dishes, like apaki, kolokithokeftedes (courgette balls) and chicken with sauce offered by this ‘School of Meze‘ are simply delicious. The local wine is perfect to accompany the Cretan dishes. Stand next to the narrow paved street and watch the people wandering around. Don’t miss the strawberry-flavored rakomelo.
Tamam

Known for its traditional Cretan cuisine, Tamam is located in the heart of the old town. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local specialties such as dakos, lamb, and fresh seafood.
Salis
Situated near the Venetian Harbor, Salis provides a stunning waterfront setting. The restaurant offers a blend of Mediterranean and Cretan flavors, with dishes like stuffed calamari and grilled fish. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy your meal while overlooking the picturesque harbor.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.


KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.