Heraklion Travel - Epic Bucket List Adventures

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Exploring Heraklion on Foot: A Local Walking Tour

Our walking tour of Heraklion offered a vibrant introduction to Crete’s capital city, blending history, culture, and local charm. As we set out, the lively atmosphere of Heraklion immediately enveloped us, with bustling streets, charming squares, and a mix of modern and traditional elements.

We began our tour at the Venetian Harbor, where the impressive Koules Fortress stands guard over the city. The fortress, a symbol of Heraklion’s rich maritime history, provided a perfect starting point. The location offered stunning views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. Walking along the waterfront, we took in the fresh sea breeze and watched the boats bob gently in the water.

Our path then led us through the Old Town, where narrow streets and alleys are lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The architecture here reflects the city’s diverse past, with Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences visible at every turn. We paused at Lions Square, home to the beautiful Morosini Fountain. This working fountain remains a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors. The square buzzed with activity, and we couldn’t resist stopping for a coffee at a nearby cafe for lunch.

Bear at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Continuing our walk, we visited the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the most significant museums in Greece. The museum’s collection, which includes artifacts from the Minoan civilization, provided fascinating insights into Crete’s ancient history. We marveled at the detailed frescoes, pottery, and jewelry, each piece telling a story of the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Our tour also took us to The Church of Saint John the Baptist, an impressive church dating back to the 13th Century. The cathedral’s peaceful interior offered a quiet moment of reflection amidst the day’s exploration. We were also intrigued by the “skull of John the Baptist” housed in the church. While the provenance seems shaky, it was definitely an interesting display.

As we wound our way through the city, we also discovered hidden gems, such as small artisan shops and family-run tavernas, where we could sample local delicacies. The aromas of freshly baked bread and Cretan dishes filled the air, tempting us to pause for a taste. We stopped at Peskesi Restaurant and made a dinner reservation for later in the evening. I will discuss this restaurant further in another post, but I would highly recommend making a reservation. The food was excellent, and this place stays busy.

The tour concluded at the Venetian Loggia, a stunning example of Venetian architecture that now serves as the City Hall. As we stood in front of this elegant building, we reflected on the rich tapestry of history and culture that Heraklion offers to those who explore its streets on foot.

Our walking tour of Heraklion was a delightful journey through the city’s past and present. We enjoyed a deeper appreciation of its unique character. For anyone visiting Crete, a leisurely stroll through Heraklion’s vibrant streets is a must, revealing the heart and soul of this captivating city.

Read more about our Two-Week Tour of Greece!