5 Cretan Flavors You Must Try in Rethymno

Cretan cuisine is world-renowned for its quality and unique flavors. During your visit to Rethymno, don't miss out on these five dishes that represent the heart of local gastronomy.

• Antikristo 🥩

  The most legendary dish of Cretan cuisine! It features lamb or goat slow-roasted around an open fire. The result is meat with an incredibly tender texture and a unique, smoky aroma.

• Gamopilafo 🍚

  A traditional rice dish (similar to risotto) typically served at weddings and major festivals. It is slow-cooked in rich meat broth, offering a velvety, buttery taste you will never forget.

• Chochlioi Bourbouristoi (Fried Snails) 🐌

  A true Cretan delicacy. Snails (chochlioi) are fried in olive oil with rosemary and vinegar. It’s a dish that you’ll either love or hate, but it is definitely worth trying for an authentic experience!

• Kaltsounia 🧀

  Small, handmade pies with sweet or savory fillings made from local cheeses like mizithra. Kaltsounia are perfect as an appetizer or a sweet treat and are an essential part of the Cretan diet.

• Dakos (Koukouvagia) 🍅

  The ultimate Cretan appetizer! It consists of a hard **barley rusk** softened with olive oil, topped with grated fresh tomatoes and local creamy **xinomyzithra** (or feta) cheese. It is the cornerstone of the healthy Cretan diet.

Enjoy your meal! (Kali Orexi!) 🍷