Food

Eating in Crete is an event! There are many Taverna's within walking distance of Pavlakis Beach Apartments and there are many that are a short or long taxi/car ride away. Visit the harbor and enjoy the many Fish tavernas, go up into the Mountains and experience traditional fare, stay in Stalos or Chania for more great traditional food! My suggestion is to always talk to Antonios. He will give you suggestions and make the arrangements, and from a personal experience I know you will never be disappointed!

Greeks take their time over food. Much of the cooking relies on simple seasonings and fresh meats and vegetables. Most menus have an English translation. It is common for Greeks to make a lunch (usually eaten late afternoon 2-4) of Mezedes or hor'dourves - typical of these dishes would include fried meatballs, squash balls, octopus, shrimp, squid, cheeses, olives, stuffed vine leaves, tzatziki, eggplant dip and small sausages. A meal does not arrive as it does at home! You receive items as they come freshly cooked from the kitchen, so you may get your fish or meat before your potatoes or veggies - or you get everything at once! Cutlery arrives with the bread - keep your utensils for the entire meal. In the traditional tavernas you may be invited to walk into the kitchen and select your meal from the variety on the stove - this is a lot of fun! Beware . . . plates are piled high with delicious food. For the evening meal (usually eaten later 8-10) tavernas serve such specialties as moussaka (lamb, eggplant, béchamel sauce), kabobs, pastitsio (lamb with macaroni and tomatoes), stifado (braised beef with onions) or paidakia (grilled lamb chops)

Some dishes you'll want to try:

Loukanika - spicy sausage

Boureki - zucchini, potatoes and cheese pie

Kaltsounia - cheese and spinach pie

Greek salads - soooooooooo fresh

Mizithra - soft cretan cheese

Dakos - Cretan bread with oil, tomatoes, cheese and herbs

Wine is usually the product of the owner, in Crete, almost everyone has a vineyard, therefore all wines are slightly different and generally very good! The local Greek beer is Mythos - excellent! Raki is offered to guests at the end of the meal often with a small sweet desert - at no charge. Raki is a potent drink and it is customary to share this drink with local people when it is offered - which is often!!!