Exploring Sitia’s culinary scene is a vibrant journey that leads to delicious, high-quality meals. A wide array of dining establishments, from humble tavernas to sophisticated gourmet restaurants, offer a variety of flavors and experiences. Whether in search of traditional Greek fare or international cuisine, visitors find exceptional options to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Inodion stands as a popular choice, with its expertly crafted dishes embodying the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine. Da Giorgio Restaurant offers Italian delicacies, attracting guests with its charming ambiance and carefully curated menu. Fegaropsaro presents a seafood lover’s paradise with a menu with fresh, locally-sourced seafood cuisine. Dionysos Restaurant, with its extensive offering of Greek and Mediterranean meals, leaves a lasting impression on the gastronomes. Lastly, Ziafeti, a cozy spot that dishes out a variety of local food, adds to the culinary landscape of Sitia, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Exploring the best restaurants in Sitia can be a breeze when done via rental car. The convenience of setting a personalized pace. Car rental costs in Crete are influenced by several factors, such as the choice of vehicle. With daily car rentals ranging between €30 and €40 and a week-long rental coming up to approximately €250, visitors find ample options to suit their budgets. Weekend rentals, costing around €78 per day, are also available for those planning short trips. The rental price sees considerable variation depending on the car model chosen. Various car rental services, like Rental Center Crete, provide a range of vehicles, accommodating the varied needs of different clientele. This flexible mode of transportation ensures a seamless gastronomic tour around Sitia’s top restaurants, such as Inodion, Da Giorgio Restaurant, Fegaropsaro, Dionysos Restaurant and Ziafeti.
Listed below are the best restaurant in Sitia:
- Inodion: Inodion is a popular dining spot in Sitia known for its traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring fresh local ingredients and a wine list that complements its culinary menu.
- Da Giorgio Restaurant: Da Giorgio Restaurant is an Italian eatery located in the heart of Sitia. The restaurant’s distinctive charm lies in its fusion of Italian cuisine with a touch of Cretan flavor, resulting in a unique gastronomic experience.
- Fegaropsaro: Fegaropsaro is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. It serves a variety of fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes, making it an ideal dining spot for those wanting to experience the authentic taste of the Cretan sea.
- Dionysos Restaurant: Dionysos Restaurant is known for its Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. It stands out with its homely atmosphere, friendly service and a diverse menu that caters to both vegetarians and meat-lovers.
- Ziafeti: Ziafeti is a traditional Greek restaurant that offers a rich menu filled with local specialties. Located in a picturesque part of Sitia, Ziafeti not only provides a delightful culinary experience but also stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
1. Inodion
Inodion provides a chance to relish ancient and current recipes from Eastern Crete’s heart. Open since 2005, this family-run taverna, guided by Dimitris Garefalakis, contributes to Sitia’s vibrant day and nightlife. It emphasises the value of local cooking customs and aims to keep these traditions alive.
Inodion brings forth original Eastern Crete dishes using fresh ingredients from the locality. It offers barley rusks baked in a traditional wood-burning oven and meals cooked in Sitia’s famous extra virgin olive oil. A selection of wines and the local tsikoudia, also known as raki, are available to complement the dishes. Inodion’s menu includes lamb chops, young goat, local cheese and fresh salads, with the tender goat meat standing out for its melt-in-the-mouth quality. For a price range of €10 to €20, Inodion delivers an unforgettable dining experience at a reasonable cost.
2. Da Giorgio Restaurant
Da Giorgio Restaurant offers a scenic spot to enjoy Cretan food, with a deep sea view. It holds 12th place among 52 eateries in Sitia and features a menu deeply rooted in Crete’s tradition. Each dish is prepared daily with local gourmet products and the old-fashioned interior paired with homemade kitchen scents makes for a tasty journey back in time.
The menu presents a range of dishes, such as traditional risotto with slow-cooked veal, fried snails, bacon sausages, cream-filled meatballs, stroganoff fillet, eggs with staka and slow-cooked, a spiced rooster with handmade “skioufichta” spaghetti. The restaurant also offers pizzas and fresh seafood. Every dish goes well with traditional Raki and the unique “nerati pie” dessert with honey. Visitors also praised the Greek white wine and beer available. Da Giorgio Restaurant serves traditional Greek bread while waiting for the main meal. The availability of tourist maps and booklets enhances the experience, marking it as a place to visit in Sitia.
3. Fegaropsaro
Fegaropsaro serves Greek and Mediterranean dishes and has gained a reputation for its delicious calamari, sardines and Greek salads. Its parfait has left a mark on regular visitors and the selection of house wine, rakia or gin doesn’t disappoint either. Located nearby the Folk Museum of Sitia, the restaurant’s menu provides an enticing break from cultural exploration. The cost of meals here, falling between €15-€20, matches the quality, making the prices reasonable.
The restaurant’s friendly team is always ready to assist, adding to the pleasant experience. The comforting atmosphere combined with the service adds to the overall dining experience. Offering more than just seafood, the restaurant caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan and vegetarian. It serves daily meals, from lunch to dinner and even brunch. Fegaropsaro allows reservations and outdoor seating is available for those who wish to dine with a view. The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring it is welcoming to everyone.
4. Dionysos Restaurant
Dionysos Restaurant is sure to please Italian cuisine lovers with it’s serving of perfectly baked pizza, calamari and tarator. The mouthwatering crepes and tasty cheeses are other highlights of the menu. guests can try delicious rakia, house wine or beer, making this spot a paradise for drink lovers. Praised for its top-notch service and friendly workforce, Dionysos ensures every visit is pleasant. It offers meals and drinks in the €2 – €15 range, balancing quality and affordability. An added charm is its expansive children’s playground, making it an ideal family restaurant. Catering to various dietary preferences, it has vegan and vegetarian options too. Whether it’s lunch, dinner or drinks, Dionysos is a delightful stop. Dionysos Restaurant offers parking, delivery, takeout and free wifi. It also accepts major cards and features outdoor seating, making it a versatile choice for a meal out.
5. Ziafeti
Ziafeti features its home recipes and pure ingredients combined with traditional cooking making it a haven for food lovers in the heart of Sitia. Although not extensive, the menu ensures fresh and authentic flavours in every bite. Greek salads, saganaki and prawns come highly recommended, with the house special, Che, making a standout impression. Pairing these meals with delicious rakia or wine heightens the dining experience.
The cosy atmosphere and homey decor at Ziafeti allow guests to unwind after a busy day. Renowned for its service, Ziafeti owes its efficiency to a team of attentive staff. Its focus on locally sourced produce, delectable meals at affordable prices and a more authentic atmosphere sets it apart from other dining establishments in the area. To ensure a comfortable experience for every visitor, it accepts credit cards and offers outdoor seating, takeaway and booking services. Catering to various dietary needs, vegan and vegetarian options are also available on the menu. Ziapheti stays open from 6 PM to 12 AM throughout the week, making it an excellent choice for evening or late-night get-togethers.
6. Thalassa Café Restaurant
Thalassa Café Restaurant is known for its Greek cuisine. This restaurant wins over guests with various dishes, including the famous octopus, fish and prawns. The menu also features delectable che. Complementing the flavorful dishes is a selection of good rakia and delicious wine; a unique blend leaves a lasting impression on coffee lovers. Thalassa Café Restaurant has a commanding view of the sea, creating a pleasant and comfortable ambience for guests. Meals are prepared daily using the finest ingredients from Crete and Greece, such as fresh vegetables, fruits and extra virgin olive oil. The seafood risotto and skewers, traditional cheese pie and dumplings with chicken are highly recommended.
7. Antonis Rakadiko
Antonis Rakadiko sits in the vibrant city of Sitia inside a building from the late 1800s. Facing the quaint harbour, the restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients. It opens at 10:00 AM and welcomes guests till late at night, offering homemade Tsikoudia (raki) and red wine. With a price range of €3 – €24, Antonis Rakadiko stands out for its reasonable costs and rankings. It holds the 13th position among 73 restaurants in Sitia and 8th among 23 seafood eateries. Its friendly service and live music add to its appeal as a popular barbecue spot. Antonis Rakadiko keeps its doors open from 1 PM till late at night, welcoming all those searching for a great dining experience.
8. Sitia Beach Pizzeria Restaurant
Sitia Beach Pizzeria Restaurant is located on Kon/nou Karamanli Street, a culinary beacon among Greek and Italian cuisine lovers. Located conveniently near Mitsakakis (22 meters), Thalassa Restaurant (52 meters) and Da Giorgio (88 m)., it is renowned for its delightful pizza, sardines, mushrooms and dessert menu. guests also appreciate the range of beverages, including delectable house wine and rakia.
Sitia Beach Pizzeria excels in creating perfect pizzas and superlative salads. Highlights include courgette balls and homemade chips from real potatoes. A generous chicken Caesar salad, a large pizza, a bottle of water and a half-litre of the house rose wine can be enjoyed for just €24. Notably, their pizzas are hand-thrown and cooked in a wood oven – a rarity in Crete. Sitia Beach Pizzeria Restaurant also offers convenient takeout services for those who prefer to dine at home.
9. Tzivaeri
Tzivaeri stands out among the many restaurants found on the Sitia seafront. It operates as a family business, with the Psarakis family growing many ingredients. They serve fresh fish daily; their homemade bread, olive oil and wine are organic. The mixed fish platter is a visitor favourite, costing only €22 for two people. Spit-grilled meats are a big hit on Fridays and Sundays, attracting locals in large numbers.
While enjoying tasty dishes, guests can also take in the beautiful sight of the Sitia port. The food’s flavour is enhanced by using organic ingredients and virgin olive oil. Their homemade wine and raki are also worth trying. Favourites among the dishes include rice-stuffed courgette flowers for starters and grilled meat or fish for main courses. As per the ratings by Tripadvisor Travellers, Tzivaeri scores 4.5 for food, service and value.
10. Aposperítis
Aposperítis specialises in Greek cuisine that serves delicious prawns, grilled octopus and saganaki. Adding to the appeal is the availability of tasty parfait, delightful rakia and fine wine. Open daily from 1 PM to 2 AM, Aposperítis offers a variety of flavoursome dishes, including meat, seafood, salads, cheese, gyros, kebabs, souvlakia, doner kebabs and various types of meat, including lamb, chicken and pork.
Located on the seafront of Sitia, the restaurant boasts a beautiful view and a cosy atmosphere. guests enjoy excellent service, friendly staff, live music and the option of food delivery. Aposperítis earns its place as the 10th of 52 restaurants in Sitia, having received the Travelers’ Choice award in 2022 and a 4.5 rating from 96 reviews—prices range from €4 to €20. A visit to Aposperítis offers a meal and an authentic Cretan experience. Locals and tourists can be found enjoying their meals and watching local men playing board games.
11. The Wall Music Bar
The Wall Music Bar, situated across from the Sitia harbour, offers guests an exceptional experience. guests can savour single-origin coffee, signature cocktails, fresh juices and various tea options. Beyond beverages, this establishment serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering a diverse menu.
A prominent feature of The Wall is the quality of the coffee prepared by specialised baristas, which complements the dominant ambience and makes it suitable for any occasion. Each cup is an art piece made from high-quality beans sourced globally, primarily in association with the Bristot company. The café’s success hinges on its perfectly prepared burgers, pasta and salads. Additional delights include waffles, pancakes and cheesecakes. Noteworthy among the beverages is the delicious beer selection. However, the authentic charm of The Wall Music Bar is its menu, frequently mentioned in reviews for its club sandwich and chicken burgers and applauded for its friendly staff and excellent service.
12. Mitsakakis
Mitsakakis is a dessert hotspot located near the Folk Museum of Sitia and is ranked as the top dessert spot in Sitia. The restaurant also offers dessert choices such as beignets, sweet fried dough and gelato. It serves cafe frappe, cappuccino and espresso to those seeking a caffeine kick.
Mitsakakis occupies an accessible location, easy to reach even during busy times. The restaurant takes pride in its friendly and hospitable staff. Outdoor seating, Wi-Fi and wheelchair accessibility are among the amenities it offers. Mistsakakis desserts have earned recognition for their freshness and incorporation of local ingredients. A special recipe of galaktoboureko has stayed unchanged over the years.
Which are the must-visit restaurants in Crete?
Top dining spots in Crete, such as Elia Restaurant in Malia, Tamam Restaurant in Chania and Pelagos Seaside Restaurant in Koutsounari, offer delicious food and stunning views. Other places worth a visit include Chrisostomos Restaurant, Taverna Alekos, Ferryman Taverna, Avli Rethymno, Dounias, Apostolis Restaurant and Herb’s Garden at the Lato Boutique Hotel. Each meal enjoyed at these establishments tells a story of Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage. For convenience and ease in exploring Crete’s best places to eat and vibrant food markets, a rental car proves handy, making it simpler to journey through the various dining destinations on the island.
What do you need to know about Sitia before visiting?
Sitia, a delightful seaside town on Crete’s northeastern side, has a variety of appealing qualities:
- Deep Roots: With a history stretching back to the Minoan era, Sitia offers a wealth of historical and cultural sites. Visitors can delve into the past at the Sitia Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum and the Kazarma Venetian Fortress.
- Food and Drink: Sitia’s local food scene thrives on traditional Cretan and Mediterranean dishes. The region is famous for its honey, olive oil and wine.
- Sandy Shores: Visitors can enjoy some of Crete’s best beaches in Sitia, such as the unique Vai Beach with its palm forest and Itanos Beach with its clear waters.
- Natural Wonders: The area abounds in natural beauty, with stunning landscapes and hiking trails. Richtis Gorge is particularly popular among nature enthusiasts.
- Friendly Faces: The people of Sitia are known for their warmth and hospitality, always ready to make visitors feel welcome.
- Easy Access: Sitia is well-connected with an airport and seaport and is within driving distance of large cities like Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos.
- Festive Spirit: Sitia hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the well-known Sitia Wine Festival and the Kazarma Festival.
- Places to Stay: There’s accommodation for all budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guest houses. Visitors should select one of the best places to stay in Sitia.
It’s a good idea for potential visitors to check the local weather and opening hours of attractions to make their trip as enjoyable as possible.
Do you need to rent a car to visit restaurants in Sitia?
Yes, getting a car rental proves helpful for trips to Crete, including Sitia. A car allows for exploring diverse locations, sites and eateries at one’s leisure. The visitor enjoys the liberty of choosing the time and place to visit. However, a few aspects are worth considering before opting for a car rental in Crete. These encompass the renter’s age and validity of the driving license, the car’s condition, comprehension of the fuel policies, verification of any mileage restrictions and ensuring all essential paperwork is in place.
What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?
Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Sitia:
- Insurance Coverage: This includes Collision Damage Waiver and credit card insurance. It serves as an assurance for car rentals. A variant of insurance with zero excess and no credit card involves extra fees, available upon request from the car rental company. However, neither insurance type covers damage to glasses and mirrors. In case of an accident, the rental company should be contacted immediately and one must wait for the arrival of a patrol officer.
- Driver’s Age: The minimum age requirement for the driver is 21 years, with the licence held for at least 12 months. Certain companies might stipulate a minimum age of 23 years. It is necessary to clarify these age-related restrictions.
- Car Types: Consider the type of driving you’ll be doing. Smaller cars are often better for navigating narrow city streets, while a 4×4 could be useful for exploring mountainous or off-road areas. Learning how to choose the right car to rent in Crete will make the most of one’s time enjoying the beautiful tourist spots.
- Required Documents: A driver’s licence and a credit or debit card under the driver’s name are essential for car rental. If the driver’s licence is forgotten, but a credit card is available, the second driver’s licence could be used. Driving without a licence in Greece is strictly forbidden.
How much does a car rental in Crete cost?
Crete, an island bursting with tourist attractions, bestows the opportunity for exploration via a rented vehicle. The car rental expense in Crete is influenced by multiple factors, such as the number of travellers, travel plans, car model, location and rental duration. A daily car rental in Crete could range between €30 and €40. For a week-long rental, the average cost would be approximately €250, while a weekend rental could be around €78. The rental price can vary significantly depending on the type of car chosen. Various car rental services, like Rental Center Crete, offer vehicles catering to different customer needs.
