Good food is hugely important in Crete (and probably the whole Mediterranean) and the quality of most tavernas and restaurants, even the most simple, is really high. Food is very much part of the Crete experience.

I wouldn't qualify the Greek and Cretan cuisine as anything near high gastronomy but where they often win is on freshness and quality of ingredients. And of course the setting can be a big part of the enjoyment: a simple salad eaten on a shaded terrace overlooking the sea will possibly give you a longer lasting memory than an elaborate meal inside a fancy restaurant.

Follow the links below for a few pointers on Cretan food.

• The Greek and Cretan cuisine
• Cretan eating customs - Do's and don'ts
• Local drinks
• Shopping for food and drinks in Crete