Eat Like Locals: More Than 12 Best Cafes, Tavernas and Restaurants in Agios Nikolaos
by Crete Locals
- Posted 6 months ago
- Cretan Food
Table of Contents
Best restaurants in Agios Nikolaos are your gateway to truly experiencing Crete’s rich history and culture, not just seeing it but tasting its authenticity. If your quest is to experience the authentic pulse of Cretan life, the secret lies in dining where the locals do. There’s a special charm to the eateries that the residents favour: they are the venues where the quality of produce and the authenticity of flavours are unmatched, ensuring that every dish sings with the island’s traditional essence. It’s here, among the chatter and laughter of Cretan families and friends, that you’ll find the true taste of Crete.
Yet, the gastronomic landscape in Agios Nikolaos is as varied as it is delicious. While the focus of this blog is to guide you through the maze of traditional Cretan tavernas, where the fragrance of olive oil and oregano fills the air, we don’t stop there. We also spotlight those local gems where you can indulge in the town’s best pizza, savour a perfectly grilled burger, or enjoy a cup of expertly brewed coffee.
These places are deeply loved by locals, buzzing with a genuine Cretan spirit, where you’re not just a customer, but a welcomed guest into the warm embrace of Cretan hospitality. Join us as we unveil the top tavernas, cafes and restaurants in Agios Nikolaos, where to eat is to celebrate life itself.
Best Coffee, Breakfast and Brunch Restaurants in Agios Nikolaos
Zygos Urban Garden
Location: 2, Eth. Antistaseos 1, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
At Zygos Urban Garden, nestled by the renowned Voulismeni Lake in Agios Nikolaos, mornings unfold leisurely. Sip on a perfectly crafted Freddo coffee, savour a selection of delectable pancakes, and treat yourself to an array of smoothies and brunch delights. Though its picturesque location might suggest a tourist hotspot, you’ll find yourself amidst locals, who frequent the place for its impeccable service and warm, attentive staff.
ARC Espresso Cocktail Bar
Location: Vitsentzou Kornarou 1, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece.
Find your morning bliss at ARC Espresso Cocktail Bar, where breakfast is an experience enhanced by the ambience of dining under the pine trees on the terrace or soaking up panoramic views from the balcony. It’s the ideal spot to set the tone for your day, with a diverse array of breakfast and brunch choices. As you savour your coffee, the captivating view of the lake complements each sip, making ARC a must-visit destination and a delightful starting point for your day’s adventures in Agios Nikolaos.
Piazza Cafe Bar
Location: Nik. Plastira 1, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Piazza Cafe Bar is a gem located in the pulsing heart of Agios Nikolaos, right at the charming Eleftheriou Venizelou Square, a beautiful and cosy spot with great coffee. Accompanied by friendly staff and an array of delicious offerings, it’s a place where each dish is a celebration of flavour. Highly recommended are their exquisite Eggs Benedict, the sweetly indulgent apple french toast, and the perfectly prepared avocado toast. And to round off the experience, don’t miss out on a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, a vibrant burst of Cretan sunshine in every sip.
Seaside Morning Delights: Breakfast Spots in Agios Nikolaos by the Beach
Earlier, we highlighted some breakfast/brunch gems in the city centre of Agios Nikolaos. However, if you plan to start your day by the beach, gazing over the waves as you have your first sip of coffee, we’ve got you covered. Below is a list of beachfront breakfast and brunch spots that the locals adore and frequent. Dive in and let the sea breeze accompany your morning feast!
Amoodi Beach Bar
Location: Hlia Sotirxou 721 00 Crete Greece
Start your day lounging on sunbeds, your toes nestled in fine sand, with the gentle touch of clean waters lapping at the shore. At Amoodi, the day unfolds seamlessly from a beachside breakfast and aromatic coffee to a magnificent dinner, capped off with a crafted cocktail under the stars. It’s not just a place – it’s an all-day experience that lets you immerse in the coastal charms of Agios Nikolaos. Dive into the day, from dawn to dusk, all while enveloped in the tranquil embrace of the beach.
Kimzu Sea Lounge
Location: Anapafseos 44, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Kimzu Sea Lounge offers an idyllic setting where the beauty of the beach beckons for a day well spent. Indulge in a delicious breakfast with options like fluffy pancakes, savoury toast, a nourishing granola bowl, or perfectly poached Benedict eggs, paired with a chilled Freddo cappuccino. Then, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters that stretch invitingly before you. It’s a harmonious blend of relaxation and indulgence – truly all you need for a flawless beginning to your day.
Palazzo Cafe Bar
Location: Akti Papa Nikolaou Pagalou 8, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
A mere 200m walk west from the picturesque Lake Voulismeni in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find Palazzo Cafe Bar perched gracefully by the Kitroplatia beach. This spot is not just about savouring a delicious meal or sipping on your morning coffee; it’s an experience where each moment is accentuated by the gentle caress of the sea breeze. Immerse yourself in a breakfast experience where the ambience matches the flavour on your plate.
Best Lunch & Dinner Restaurants in Agios Nikolaos Loved by Locals
While the breakfast and brunch spots we mentioned above also make delightful destinations for lunch and dinner, Agios Nikolaos brims with even more culinary treasures to discover. Local favourites don’t stop at the morning menu, and as the sun climbs higher or dips below the horizon, a new array of flavours comes to life in this Cretan gem. In the upcoming section, we’re venturing deeper into the town’s gastronomic heart, unveiling more lunch and dinner spots that have won the adoration of the locals. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into a feast of flavours that awaits!
Paradosiako
Location: Themistokleous 1-9, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Embodying its name to the core, Paradosiako Restaurant is a testament to the rich tapestry of Greek culinary traditions. “Paradosiako,” which translates to “traditional” in English, is not just a name but a philosophy that permeates every aspect of this beloved eatery. Focused on showcasing quintessential Greek dishes, every item on the menu sings praises to fresh, local produce.
The dining journey begins with an array of meze – delightful small plates such as creamy fava dip, refreshing tzatziki, and perfectly wrapped dolmades. As you delve deeper into the menu, robust mains like succulent grilled octopus, rich moussaka, and tender lamb chops beckon. However, the showstopper for many is the saganaki – a delicacy where Greek cheese is fried to crispy perfection and finished with a hint of honey. This savoury-sweet masterpiece is a cheese aficionado’s dream and embodies the spirit of Paradosiako: authentically Greek and unforgettably delicious.
Karnagio
Location: Kon/nou Paleologou 24, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Nestled by the quaint Voulismeni Lake at the core of Agios Nikolaos, Karnagio Restaurant is an enchanting venue to indulge in local delicacies and genuine Greek cuisine. The commitment of the proprietors to sourcing exclusively Cretan produce – ranging from olive oil and honey to sea salt and freshly caught fish – resonates well with both tourists and residents, bolstering the eatery’s esteemed standing in the community. Beyond the culinary delights, Karnagio captivates with its unique ambience; dining just meters from the lapping waters, guests are treated to an extraordinary view of the village. A visit to Karnagio is a must for any traveller looking to immerse themselves in the local flavours and scenery of Agios Nikolaos.
Gioma Meze
Location: Dionisiou Solomou 12, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Gioma Meze stands as a culinary beacon in Agios Nikolaos, delighting diners with its superb melding of seafood excellence and Greek culinary traditions. Renowned for both its delectable dishes and the warmth of its service, this restaurant offers an extensive menu that promises something for every taste. From the moment you’re welcomed by their personable and professional staff, the stage is set for a memorable dining encounter. Here, you’re not just eating a meal; you’re immersing yourself in the true essence of Greek gastronomy. Add to this the captivating views of the tranquil Voulismeni Lake, and Gioma Meze becomes more than just a meal – it’s a feast for the senses.
Be sure to add Maistrali, Ofou to lo, Achinos, and Kri Kri to your culinary itinerary. These tavernas are local favourites, celebrated for their embodiment of authentic Cretan flavour and the genuine warmth of Cretan hospitality. Each one offers a unique taste of the region’s rich gastronomic culture, promising an experience that resonates with the true spirit of Crete.
Best Restaurants for a Fine and Elegant Dinner in Agios Nikolaos
In the vibrant heart of Agios Nikolaos, culinary enthusiasts will find a blend of traditional Greek flavours and modern gastronomy. If your palate yearns for sophistication and elegance in both ambience and dish presentation, then look no further. These select restaurants in Agios Nikolaos promise an unforgettable fine dining experience that seamlessly marries the rich Cretan tradition with contemporary culinary artistry.
Migomis Piano Restaurant
Location: Nikolaou Plastira 20, Nik. Plastira 22, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Perched on the brink of a cliff, Migomis Restaurant offers a stunning overture to the cosmopolitan vibe of Agios Nikolaos, with the serene Voulismeni Lake lying gracefully beneath. Here, Greek and Mediterranean cuisines are reimagined, presenting a fusion of flavours to both lunch and dinner guests. But the experience transcends the taste buds; the breathtaking panoramic views coupled with the melodic tunes of live piano set a scene so romantic, it seems conjured from a dream. To ensure the pinnacle of this enchanting dining experience, reservations are recommended – aim for the best seats to fully embrace the enchantment of Migomis.
Piato
Location: Minoos 5, Ammoudi Beach, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
Steps away from Ammoudi Beach in Agios Nikolaos, Piato stands out as a refined dining establishment, celebrated for its creative twist on Cretan cuisine. The culinary team, led by a distinguished chef, takes pride in a regularly refreshed menu that infuses modern flair into time-honoured Cretan dishes.
Piato’s offerings are a celebration of the island’s bountiful produce, featuring a sumptuous array of meats, fresh seafood, poultry, and vegetarian options, all curated from local harvests. Each dish is a testament to the traditional cooking techniques, promising a sensory journey of complex flavours and textures. Complementing the exquisite food, the service at Piato is impeccable, and the owner’s personal touch -especially his astute wine pairings – elevates the dining experience, ensuring it remains etched in your memory.
Traditional “Kafeneio“ Tavernas in Agios Nikolaos
For a genuine taste of Crete, there’s no better way than to pull up a chair at one of Agios Nikolaos’s traditional kafenions. These are the places where the heartbeat of local life is most palpable, where you’ll be welcomed into a convivial atmosphere filled with the aromas of authentic Cretan cooking. It’s an immersive experience where every dish has a story, crafted with the freshest local ingredients.
To help guide your culinary adventure, we’ve compiled a list of Kafenios where you can savour the true essence of local cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying the Cretan Dakos, savoury Stuffed zucchini flowers, classic Tzatziki, crispy Deep-fried zucchini, smooth Fava, succulent Cretan meatballs, Fried Snails, meat and seafood. For a deeper dive into traditional Cretan dishes, be sure to visit our blog and enrich your foodie knowledge before your visit.
- Gypas (Palaia EO Irakleioi – Agioi Nikolaoi 7, Xirokampos 721 00, Greece)
- To Potiraki (Pl. El. Venizélou 7-8, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Roza (Kiprion Agoniston 1, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Farsaris Thanasis (Latous 20, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Portes (Anapafseos 3, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Ta Bouzoukia (Andrea Papandreou 54, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
Best Pizza in Agios Nikolaos
A vacation isn’t complete without indulging in some comfort food. For the pizza aficionados among us, Agios Nikolaos doesn’t disappoint. Dive into the rich flavours and authentic taste that these local favourites have to offer. Loved and frequented by locals, these venues promise a slice that’s sure to elevate your vacation experience. Check out the following spots for a pizza experience that will have you coming back for more:
- Al Dente (Akti Nearchou 3, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Palermo (Kon/nou Paleologou 26, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Sirocco (Akti Nearchou 16, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Basilico (Akti Nearchou 3, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
Best Gyros in Agios Nikolaos Town
No culinary journey through Crete is complete without indulging in the nation’s beloved fast food – the Gyros. This simple yet scrumptious dish comes in two forms: wrapped in a soft, warm pita brimming with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and fries, or served as a delectable plate full of succulent sliced meats accompanied by these same delicious sides. Agios Nikolaos has its fair share of spots where you can find top-notch Gyros, and we’ve got the inside scoop on where locals go to satisfy their cravings. Here’s our roundup of eateries where the Gyros not only taste like tradition but also embody the vibrant spirit of Cretan street food at its finest.
- Al Dente (Akti Nearchou 3, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- UNO (3, Kondilaki 1, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
- Thraka (Kon/nou Karamanli 5, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece)
And there you have it – a curated guide to Agios Nikolaos through the eyes and appetites of those who know it best: the locals. We’ve journeyed from the quaint cafés pouring the richest coffees to the spots where pizza rivals the shores for beauty, from the heartwarming Kafenions that are the soul of Cretan tradition to the elegant establishments perfect for an evening under the stars.
In Agios Nikolaos, the spectrum of culinary delights mirrors the vibrant hues of its landscapes, ensuring that every meal is not just sustenance, but a celebration. So, take this list and let it lead you to not just dining, but an experience. Eat, savour, and live like a local. Enjoy every bite, every sight, and every moment. Kali orexi! (Bon appétit!)
