- Special dinner
- Avli, Xanthoudidou 22
- Meze and raki
- Raki BaRaki (Avli's sister)
- Courtyard
- Alana, Salaminos 15
- Book
- Avli in summer
Avli
Avli was founded in 1987 by Katerina Xekalou in a 16th-century Venetian villa in the old town, built around a courtyard. Today it combines a restaurant, ten suites, a wine cellar and a shop of traditional products. Book ahead in summer; same-day bookings are handled by phone (+30 28310 58250).
Raki BaRaki
Raki BaRaki is Avli's sister: a traditional kafeneio and rakadiko with meze from an open kitchen and seating under the vines. Order several small plates and a carafe of raki.
Alana
Alana, at Salaminos 15, first opened in 1986 below the Fortezza and reopened under new management in 2002. Its garden courtyard is full of flowers and plants, and the menu reinterprets Cretan and Greek cooking with local produce and grilled meat. It serves brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails.
Tips
Old-town restaurants fill after 21:00 in summer. Book or arrive early, and leave time to wander the lanes afterwards.
Questions before you go
Where should I book a special dinner in Rethymno?
Avli, in a 16th-century Venetian villa.
What is Raki BaRaki?
Avli's sister meze and raki bar.
Is Alana in the old town?
Yes, at Salaminos 15, below the Fortezza.
