A guide to the best restaurants in Aghia Marina

As expected in a busy tourist destination the restaurants and bars in Aghia Marina are plentiful and varied. You can sample the delights of local Cretan or Greek cuisine or stick to familiar territory with international menus comprising pizzas, burgers and other well-known staples. Most of the restaurants are located around the town’s stunning beach. But if you venture into Aghia Marina’s picturesque old village, you’re in for a treat with charming, authentic Cretan atmospheres.

Old world charm at Manolis

Situated in the heart of the old village square the home-cooked Cretan menu is certainly tasty. They serve the local delicacy of gamopilafoa – a rice dish traditionally served at weddings complete with braised chicken and lamb. The attractively laid out terrace dining area is festooned with scarlet geraniums and purple bougainvillea.

Familiar food at Jay Jay's

For those who want a break from Greek cuisine, Jay Jay’s range of steaks and burgers make a nice change. Complete with moody lighting and a pleasant terrace it’s open ’til 1am. The restaurant has a relaxed vibe and also offers special deals for large groups or families on Greek island holidays.

Seafood elegance at Kri Kri's

With its wonderful seafront views, garden play area and varied Cretan menu, Kri Kri is a perennial favourite with families on Greece holidays. Named after a local mountain goat, Kri Kri offers seafood and salads plus many other dishes at moderate prices.

Pizzas and pleasure at Raeti

Not only does Raeti serve delicious seafood but their pizzas – cooked in a traditional oven – are wonderful. Raeti also prides itself on the quality of its service and its local dishes like xorta vrasta – freshly picked greens drizzled with lemon juice. Many of the dishes on the menu are from recipes handed down through the generations.

Great food and great atmosphere at Olivi

Homemade bread and pizzas are just a few of the delicacies on offer at Olivi. The honey flavoured raki is a house speciality. With two ovens, clay for meats and wood burning for pizzas, the food is beautifully-cooked. Olivi also offers a takeaway and delivery service.

Contemporary cool at Ear restaurant

Set in a landscaped garden, complete with family play area and surrounded by palm trees, Ear restaurant does a great line in ice cold frappes as well as serving delicious food. Here you can enjoy modern Mediterranean recipes as well as vegetarian dishes while enjoying the restaurant’s contemporary vibe.

From seafood to spaghetti at Paralia

With its wonderfully eclectic menu, warm hospitality, and idyllic position, lovers of a truly international cuisine will be charmed with the delights on offer at Paralia. From spaghetti carbonara to zucchini croquettes, some of the dishes have a distinctly Italian feel. Rest assured that local wines, rabbit dishes and fresh seafood are also on offer.

Pizzas aplenty at Lottos

Family-friendly Lottos, with its seafront location, and children’s play area is the place to visit if you want to relax with a pork schnitzel, or pizza or sample local Cretan specialities. Lottos stays open until the early morning, offers fantastic value for money and is popular with groups large and small.

Great food and good beer at Nostos

Set just off the main beachfront, surrounded by a lush garden, Nostos prides itself on its range of beers as well as its extensive menu. Try homemade ice cream, steaks or barbecue pork ribs as well as traditional Cretan cuisine. Nostos also claims to have the largest selection of local and international beers in Crete.

Timeless elegance overlooking the sea at Mitsos

Enjoy the views, delight in the relaxing atmosphere and relish the excellent service and food, at Mitsos. There’s a selection of delicious fresh seafood dishes to choose from or sample something from Mitsos international repertoire. With wheelchair access, free Wi-Fi and a children’s playground Mitsos is welcoming to all.