Food and Drink in Rethymno, Crete - Local Guide 2026
Rethymno has an excellent food scene that punches above its size. The old town tavernas (avoid the obvious harbour strip) offer some of the best traditional Cretan cooking in western Crete, and the surrounding region produces exceptional olive oil, cheese and wine.
Where to Eat in Rethymno
The Venetian harbour restaurants are mostly tourist-facing and mediocre. Walk one block inland to Vernardou Street, Plateia Petihaki and the lanes behind the Rimondi Fountain for the best value and quality. Recommendations: Avli (garden courtyard, excellent Cretan cuisine), Primachiori (rooftop, best views), Lemonokipos (family-run, locals favourite).
What to Eat: Rethymno Specialties
Boureki (Rethymno signature dish: zucchini and potato pie with fresh myzithra), kalitsounia (small fried cheese pastries for breakfast), slow-roasted lamb from Anogia mountain farms, fresh seafood at the small harbour near the lighthouse.
Rethymno Wine Festival
The Municipal Wine Festival (usually last week of June) takes place in the Municipal Garden. Entry includes unlimited tasting from 20+ Cretan wineries. Live traditional music. Free entry. One of the most enjoyable events in Crete.
Cretan Raki Tasting
October-November is raki distillation season. Ask your hotel or guesthouse to take you to a local village kazani (distillery) for the ceremonial first-pressing experience. Free raki flows freely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is boureki and where should I eat it in Rethymno?
Boureki is Rethymno signature pie: layers of zucchini (courgette), potato and fresh myzithra cheese baked in olive oil pastry. Try it at Avli restaurant or the bakeries on Arkadiou Street.
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