Chania Old Town is the heart of the city — a maze of Venetian alleys, historic buildings, colorful shops, and hidden courtyards. It’s also home to some of the most charming places to eat. Whether you want gourmet Cretan cuisine, casual street bites, or romantic courtyard dining, these are the best Chania Old Town restaurants worth visiting.
Top Restaurants in Chania Old Town
1. To Xani – Traditional Cretan Cooking
📍 Agiou Deka Street (Topanas)
One of the most beloved tavernas in Old Town. To Xani serves authentic Cretan dishes made with local ingredients and family recipes.
Best for: Traditional dinners
Try: Boureki, lamb with herbs
Vibe: Warm, local, charming
2. Tamam – Fusion of Greek, Turkish & Middle Eastern Flavors
📍 Zambeliou Street
Located in an old Turkish bathhouse, Tamam is a must-visit for food lovers seeking bold flavors and a historic setting.
Best for: Creative Mediterranean cuisine
Try: Chicken curry, hummus plates, stuffed vegetables
Vibe: Cozy, historic, lively
3. Semiramis – Courtyard Dining Under the Trees
📍 Old Town Courtyard
An atmospheric courtyard restaurant filled with greenery, lights, and live music some nights. Perfect for a relaxed evening.
Best for: Romantic dinners
Try: Moussaka, grilled meats
Vibe: Garden, peaceful, charming
4. Salis – Modern Cretan Cuisine by the Sea
📍 Old Harbor Front
Combining modern techniques with local ingredients, Salis offers gourmet-level dishes directly on the waterfront.
Best for: Sunset dining
Try: Mussels, sea bass tartare, organic wines
Vibe: Elegant, seaside, contemporary
5. Kariatis – Italian Fine Dining in Old Town
📍 Old Venetian Harbor (near Fortezza)
A refined restaurant offering handmade pasta, pizzas, and a fantastic wine list. Ideal for date nights and celebrations.
Best for: Italian cuisine
Try: Truffle pasta, seafood risotto
Vibe: Upscale, romantic, candlelit
6. Oasis Taverna – Local Favorite with Home-Style Meals
📍 Near the Market (Agora)
Simple, old-school, and authentic. Oasis serves delicious Greek meals at affordable prices — a great option inside Old Town.
Best for: Value & traditional comfort food
Try: Souvlaki, Greek salad, lentil soup
Vibe: Casual, friendly, family-run
7. Pallas Restaurant – Modern Greek Gastronomy
📍 Venetian Harbor
A stylish, contemporary restaurant offering creative Greek dishes and stunning sunset views over the lighthouse.
Best for: Fine dining in Old Town
Try: Sea bass, lamb plates, signature cocktails
Vibe: Sophisticated, scenic
8. Palazzo Al Mare – Seafront Dining by the Lighthouse
📍 Venetian Harbor
With tables right on the water, Palazzo Al Mare is perfect for a relaxed meal with beautiful harbor views.
Best for: Seafood with a view
Try: Fresh fish, shrimp pasta
Vibe: Scenic, calm, romantic
Why These Are the Best Chania Old Town Restaurants
These restaurants were chosen for their authentic flavors, beautiful settings, quality ingredients, and great service. Whether you prefer modern cuisine or traditional Cretan dishes, the best restaurants in Chania Old Town offer unforgettable meals in one of the most historic districts in Greece.
Tips for Eating in Chania Old Town
- Book ahead during summer (especially after 7 PM)
- Avoid “tourist trap” menus with many photos
- Walk a few streets behind the harbor for better prices
- Evening is the most atmospheric time to dine
- Try Cretan wines — Vidiano and Romeiko pair perfectly with local dishes
Chania Old Town is full of charm, history, and delicious food. From cozy courtyards to waterfront terraces, these Chania Old Town restaurants offer some of the best dining experiences in the city.
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