Tucked away on Marmara Beach near Loutro, this taverna is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Run by the warm and welcoming Chrisostomos Orfanoudakis, this seasonal seaside taverna offers an authentic taste of Cretan cuisine in a breathtaking setting.

Getting to Marmara Beach isn’t easy, but the adventure is part of the experience. The beach, with its crystal-clear azure waters, lies at the mouth of the Aradena Gorge and is surrounded by stunning sea caves, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The pebbly shore and rocky seabed make it a unique and picturesque spot, though it is open to the southern winds.

The taverna specializes in hand-kneaded bread and traditional Cretan dishes, prepared with high-quality local ingredients. Highlights include:

• Slow-cooked goat in the oven or tsigariasto (stewed)

• Sfakiani pita (cheese-filled pie)

• Sweet pumpkin, potato & mizithra cheese patty

• Goat cooked in butterfat

• Stamnagathi (wild greens with olive oil & lemon)

• Wild goat tsigariasto with staka cheese & hot chips

• Complimentary Loukoumades (Greek honey donuts)

The friendly and attentive service makes the dining experience even more special. And what about the view! We highly recommend this taverna when in Marmara beach.