A Foodie’s Guide to Heraklion: Traditional Dishes and Where to Try Them

Crete is not just about sun and sea, it’s also a paradise for food lovers. In Heraklion, you’ll discover authentic flavors that reflect the island’s history, culture, and warm hospitality. From fresh seafood to traditional Cretan recipes passed down through generations, here’s your ultimate foodie’s guide to Heraklion.

Must-Try Traditional Dishes in Heraklion

Dakos (Cretan Rusk Salad)
A crunchy barley rusk topped with juicy tomatoes, mizithra (fresh cheese), olive oil, and oregano. Simple, fresh, and delicious.

Kalitsounia
Small Cretan cheese or herb pies, baked or fried, often served during festivals — but you’ll find them in bakeries year-round.

Gamopilafo (Wedding Pilaf)
A creamy rice dish cooked in rich meat broth (usually goat or lamb), often served at weddings, but available in many tavernas.

Cretan Cheeses
From graviera to anthotyro and staka, Cretan cheeses are a highlight — often served with bread, honey, or raki.

Bougatsa Heraklion
A sweet pastry filled with semolina custard, dusted with cinnamon and sugar. A must for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Where to Try Them in Heraklion

Central Market (Agora)
The heart of local life. Stroll through to sample olives, cheeses, cured meats, and dried herbs — or sit at a simple eatery inside.

Traditional Tavernas in the Old Town

• Ippokambos – Seaside dining with excellent meze and seafood.

• Paralia Seaside Restaurant – Fresh fish and traditional dishes by the water.

• Krasas – A casual spot loved for souvlaki and family-friendly dining.

Cafés & Bakeries

• Kirkor – Famous for bougatsa (don’t miss it).

• Handakos Street bakeries – Great for kalitsounia and koulouri (sesame bread rings).

Villages Near Heraklion
For a truly authentic experience, head to Archanes or Peza villages, where local tavernas serve seasonal dishes paired with excellent Cretan wine.

Don’t Miss the Local Drinks

• Raki (Tsikoudia) – The island’s signature spirit, offered everywhere as a gesture of hospitality.

• Cretan Wine – Try varieties like Vidiano, Kotsifali, or Liatiko at a local winery.

• Herbal Teas – Mountain herbs like dittany and sage are brewed into aromatic infusions..

Stay with Us & Taste Crete Like a Local

At Ariadni Apartments in Karteros, we’ll point you toward the best local tavernas, hidden bakeries, and authentic foodie experiences in and around Heraklion. Staying with us means not just enjoying the beaches and history, but also tasting the true soul of Crete.

Book Your Stay

Reserve your seaside garden apartment in Crete for a relaxing getaway today!