Mesostrato is set behind an unassuming pink-hued facade in Chania, Crete’s too-cute-to-be-true old town. This traditional Greek taverna offers passable meze and grilled fare—the garlicky snails are worth trying—and a good selection of alcohol, including dirt-cheap retsina that is nice and resiny without being overpowering. But the main draw is the setting: a large, open-air courtyard dotted with plants and trees, and even an old bicycle perched in a flower planter on the wall. There are some intriguing wooden doors, too—including a crimson one attached to the wall as decoration. Touristy? Yes, but not overwhelmingly so, and the atmosphere more than makes up for it. Mesostrato is a great pit stop while exploring during the day, and hosts traditional live music most evenings.
More Recommendations
Traditional Greek Taverna in Gorgeous Courtyard
Mesostrato is set behind an unassuming pink-hued facade in Chania, Crete’s too-cute-to-be-true old town. This traditional Greek taverna offers passable meze and grilled fare—the garlicky snails are worth trying—and a good selection of alcohol, including dirt-cheap retsina that is nice and resiny without being overpowering. But the main draw is the setting: a large, open-air courtyard dotted with plants and trees, and even an old bicycle perched in a flower planter on the wall. There are some intriguing wooden doors, too—including a crimson one attached to the wall as decoration. Touristy? Yes, but not overwhelmingly so, and the atmosphere more than makes up for it. Mesostrato is a great pit stop while exploring during the day, and hosts traditional live music most evenings.