Tag: Heraklion Restaurants

Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant: Massive portions, great food

During our stay in Heraklion, we had the pleasure of dining at Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa (A Little Wine A Little Sea). This is a charming seaside restaurant offering a perfect blend of Cretan cuisine and Mediterranean flavors. Nestled by the sea, the restaurant boasts stunning views that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The tranquil sound of waves and the fresh sea breeze made the ambiance even more special.

A cat visiting us at Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant

From the moment we arrived, the restaurant’s warm hospitality stood out. We were seated at a table with a beautiful view of the water, allowing us to enjoy the scenery as we dined. The staff were welcoming and attentive, eager to guide us through the menu and make recommendations based on our preferences. We were even welcomed by a random cat who took up residence beneath our table.

Fried zucchini at Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa

We began with an appetizer of fried zucchini. The bowl came out overflowing with fried squash…we barely made a dent in it. A highlight of the meal was the Cretan salad, bursting with fresh vegetables, local cheeses, and drizzled with fragrant olive oil. It captured the essence of Cretan cuisine—simple yet deeply flavorful.

Pork chop with potatoes at Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant
Seafood Linguini at Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant

For our main course, I chose the grilled pork chop while my wife opted for seafood linguini. Both dishes were massive. The portions were enough to feed two people per entree. We did not manage to eat it all, but would have if we could. The food had great flavor.

Donuts topped with ice cream.

To finish, we indulged in a glass of rakomelo, a warm honey-infused spirit that provided the perfect ending. The dessert, small donuts topped with ice cream, was delicious (and complimentary). It was an amazing finish to a tasty, affordable and massive meal.

Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant

Our visit to Ligo Krasi, Ligo Thalassa Restaurant (A Little Wine A Little Sea) was a memorable culinary experience that highlighted the best of Crete’s food culture. The combination of fresh ingredients, beautiful views, and outstanding service made this meal a standout during our time in Heraklion. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy fresh seafood and local flavors by the sea, this restaurant is a must-visit.

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Peskesi Restaurant: Authentic Crete Dining Experience.

Our dinner at Peskesi Restaurant in Heraklion was a culinary journey that left a lasting impression on us. Nestled in the heart of the city, Peskesi is renowned for its dedication to authentic Cretan cuisine, and our experience there more than lived up to its reputation.

Peskesi Restaurant Exterior

As we arrived, the warm, rustic ambiance of the restaurant immediately set the tone for the evening. The stone walls, wooden beams, and soft lighting created a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an intimate dinner. The staff greeted us with genuine hospitality, making us feel right at home. We were seated in the enclosed outdoor seating pictured above on the right (inside the glass enclosure).

Fig Salad at Peskesi Restaurant

We started our meal with a selection of traditional Cretan appetizers. Each dish was a celebration of local flavors, from the creamy fava bean puree to the tangy dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were vibrant, reflecting the richness of the island’s culinary heritage. The salad was particularly memorable. It was hearty and packed with flavor.

Grilled pork chops over a hot coal.

For the main course, we opted for a variety of dishes that showcased the best of Cretan cuisine. I selected the fresh grilled pork chops (Syglino), which requires a photo (above). Four amazing pork chops served over a hot coal along with fresh vegetables. Amazing. My wife and I could have shared this as a full meal.

Kreokakavos at Peskesi Restaurant

My wife ordered a traditional dish called Kreokakavos, which was equally hardy. Again, this could have served both of us as a shared meal. This traditional recipe has ancient roots. It was referred to in an ancient cookbook from the 3rd century called Deipnosophistae. This ancient Minoan recipe consists of pork with honey and thyme served with a legume puree.

Semolina dessert and digestive

The dessert was equally delightful. I can’t recall the name of our dessert, but it was semolina based. Like much of the menu at Peskesi Restaurant, it was likely based on a tradition (or even ancient) recipe. It was served with a digestif, which was an excellent conclusion to an amazing meal.

Pre-meal boost

Throughout our dinner, the service was impeccable. The staff was knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and explaining the origins of each dish. Their passion for Cretan cuisine was evident, adding an extra layer of authenticity to our dining experience.

Map of Peskesi Organic Farm near Heraklion

Our dinner at Peskesi Restaurant was more than just a meal; it was a deep dive into the culinary traditions of Crete. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the island’s food culture made our experience truly special. The farm-to-table experience was exceptional. The restaurant also offers several tours of their farm for a deeper cultural immersion. For anyone visiting Heraklion, a dinner at Peskesi Restaurant is a must. It’s an opportunity to savor the flavors of Crete in a setting that honors the island’s rich heritage.

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