Welcome to Kariatis – A Culinary Gem in Crete!
Situated in the heart of the picturesque old town of Crete, Kariatis Restaurant has quickly become a favorite destination for both locals and tourists alike. It offers a delightful escape into the world of Italian cuisine, enriched by the warm hospitality typical of Greek culture. With a stunning ambiance and an open kitchen where you can witness culinary magic being created, Kariatis promises an experience that goes beyond just a meal.
A Warm Welcome Awaits You
From the moment you step inside, the welcoming atmosphere at Kariatis sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. Reviews from visitors highlight how the attentive staff, exemplified by the lovely server Demetrius, ensures that every guest feels valued. This friendly service cultivates a relaxed environment, allowing you to savor each moment of your dining experience.
A Taste of Excellence
Diners rave about the exceptional quality of food served at Kariatis. Notably, many guests were enchanted by dishes such as the beef tenderloin pappardelle and the crepe marinera. A review from Gregory G emphasizes the "show-stopper" of the meal, which was indeed the pappardelle with mushrooms. Such gourmet dishes underline Kariatis’ commitment to offering high culinary standards.
Italian Flavors with a Greek Touch
While Kariatis primarily serves Italian cuisine, its offerings exhibit a Mediterranean flair that pays homage to local flavors. Guests like Judy Lin have found the menu to be refreshingly varied, with scrumptious options that blend traditional Italian ingredients with vibrant Greek influences. This unique culinary fusion keeps visitors coming back for more!
A Feast for the Senses
Reviewers such as Inna P have praised the restaurant not only for its delicious food but also for its beautiful presentation. Each dish arrives at your table with an artistic touch that enhances the dining experience. Whether it’s a tantalizing pasta or a decadent dessert, every plate is a visual delight, making your meal feel even more special.
Exceptional Wine Selection
Kariatis boasts an impressive wine list that complements its menu perfectly. Visitors like Judy Lin have enjoyed varieties from carefully curated selections that pair beautifully with their meals. Whether you prefer a robust red or a crisp white, you’re sure to discover the ideal wine to accompany your dining experience.
Hidden Treasure in the Old Town
Despite its somewhat hidden location behind a prominent building, many guests affirm that Kariatis is worth the search. Thomas Rach mentions how, although not immediately visible, the exceptional food and outstanding service make it a gem worth discovering. This exclusivity adds to its charm, making you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a special secret.
The Charisma of Open Kitchen
One of the unique aspects of dining at Kariatis is its open kitchen design. This feature not only provides entertainment for guests but also ensures transparency in the cooking process. Diners enjoy watching their dishes being prepared, adding an extra layer of engagement to their culinary experience, as mentioned in several guest reviews.
Sweet Finishes to Remember
A meal at Kariatis wouldn’t be complete without indulging in dessert. Feedback from guests indicates that the sweet dessert wine and chocolate truffles served at the end of a meal create a lasting impression. These simple yet indulgent touches elevate the overall dining experience, leaving you with fond memories and a satisfied palate.
Fair Prices for Unmatched Quality
Kariatis manages to maintain reasonably fair pricing while delivering high-quality dishes, as highlighted by Gregory G and others. The ability to enjoy gourmet meals without breaking the bank makes this restaurant a top choice for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions.
A Cozy Yet Modern Atmosphere
The modern yet cozy ambiance at Kariatis creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for any dining occasion—be it a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a friendly outing. Inna P aptly noted the pleasant atmosphere that matches the delightful food, making the restaurant a popular spot for those looking to engage with good company over a hearty meal.
Quality Complaints Addressed
While most reviews are glowing, some notes on specific dishes, such as the lobster & shrimp risotto being somewhat overcooked, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to improvement. Feedback from guests is received positively, and initiatives are taken to enhance the menu continually, ensuring quality remains a priority.
Your Go-To Dining Destination
As per the visitor reviews, Kariatis is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience that blends delicious food with exceptional service in a beautiful setting. The commitment to customer satisfaction and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the culinary landscape of Crete.
Recommendations from Fellow Diners
Reviewers frequently recommend Kariatis to fellow travelers, expressing their desire to return. The restaurant has become a beloved spot for visitors looking for comfort, creativity, and warmth—all characteristics that embody the local culture of Crete. Service, ambiance, and delicious meals make this restaurant a favorite among both tourists and residents.
Book Your Table Today!
Ready to experience the culinary delights of Kariatis for yourself? With consistently high ratings and a reputation forged through positive guest experiences, it’s time to make your reservation. Enjoy exceptional Italian food with a Greek twist, delightful wines, and a warm welcome at one of Crete’s standout restaurants. We look forward to serving you soon!
Useful Information
Address: Katechaki 12, Old Harbour, Κατεχάκη 12. Παλαιό Λιμάνι, Chania 731 33, Greece
Opening hours: Monday: 6:00 – 11:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 – 11:30 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 – 11:30 PM
Thursday: 6:00 – 11:30 PM
Friday: 6:00 – 11:45 PM
Saturday: 6:00 – 11:45 PM
Sunday: Closed
Phone: 2821 055600
Rated count: 4.6 of 1059 ratings
We had a nice dinner at Kariatis. We were welcomed warmly and sat in a decent spot to see a little bit of the water. We enjoyed our 2 red wines…one was a cab-sauv, the other a Merlot. The bruschetta was pretty sparse for toppings although the flavour was excellent, the crepe marinera was spectacular, the lobster & shrimp risotto (somewhat over-priced considering the outcome of the dish) was too al dente and the shrimp/lobster overcooked, but the show-stopper of the meal was the beef-tenderloin pappardelle with mushrooms…it was one of the best dishes we’ve had in Crete! At the end of our meal, we were treated to a lovely sweet dessert wine and tasty chocolate truffle. Overall, a nice night out, with reasonably fair prices, and I would recommend Kariatis.
Edit after owner’s comment: justification of review- two of our four dishes were exemplary…two of our dishes were below average. I wish I could give a 4.5 star rating.
After a week of Greek food, we wanted something different so decided to have Italian. Kariatis was so excellent we ended up returning the next night as well. The pasta with beef, focaccia and wild mushroom starter were all amazing. Next night we had a big salad and a pizza. Great wine list as well, and our server Demetrius was lovely.
We were three people for dinner. The served bread was very good, cocktails I would rate as ok.
Starter: mozarella (5/5) and tuna tartare (5/59
Main: Ravoli (4/5), Napoli 3/5)
Overall one of the most expensive restaurants in chance, but a nice atmosphere and top service.
A little bit hidden behind a big building but really worth eating there. The food is excellent, the service outstanding. The waiters and the owners are super friendly. Food is made while you can watch it in the open kitchen. And the owners eat there their own food too, which is usually a good sign! We had a really good experience there and will come back!
We thoroughly enjoyed our experience here. From great food and beautiful presentation to amazing caring stuff and modern yet cozy atmosphere. All the food we ordered was bright to us quickly and was very tasty. My pasta was missing something for me and when asked, the waiter had no problem adding some Truffle shavings to my dish / free of charge!!! Pricing is reasonable and food is quite good! Location is superb and in the heart of old town. Highly recommended! We ordered a lot of food and some amazing wine so our bill was a bit higher than usual.