Paradisos — Restaurant in Municipality of Agios Nikolaos

A Taste of Paradise in Elounda

Taverna Paradisos is a true hidden gem, a family-run business that has been serving guests since 1965 in the quiet, scenic area of Elounda, Crete. Located next to the ancient site of Olous, the taverna offers a peaceful escape from the main road, nestled within a lush garden surrounded by olive trees. The "temple-like structure" provides a beautiful, shaded space for dining, creating a truly tranquil and memorable atmosphere. The food at Taverna Paradisos is as delicious as a home-cooked meal, with a focus on traditional Cretan and Greek dishes. They take pride in using fresh, local ingredients, many of which are grown right in their own garden. One of their standout specialties is the great root beet salad, a dish that perfectly captures the fresh, earthy flavors of the region. The menu is extensive, offering a variety of options to suit every taste: Starters: Classic Greek appetizers like Tzatziki, Dakos Cretan rusk, and local Wild Greens Pies. Main Dishes: A wide selection of traditional Greek fare including Moussakas, Lamb Kleftiko, and Stifado. Grilled Meats & Fresh Fish: A great selection of grilled meats, seafood, and fresh fish, including Grilled Octopus and Marinated Anchovies. With its beautiful surroundings, delicious home-style food, and long-standing family tradition, Taverna Paradisos offers a truly authentic and satisfying dining experience. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing meal that feels both special...

From reading the reviews, we had had high expectations but were disappointed. The food seemed overpriced for what it was (we ate the fish platter for two). For starter we asked for vine leaves and we’re told they wouldn’t be ready for two hours. We said fine we’ll have them at the end of the meal and he said it would be almost 11pm when they were ready. (Not sure why he didn’t just say they had run out). We also ordered tsatsiki which arrived without bread (other tables had been given breadbaskets but not us). We assumed he was bringing some and when it was clear he wasn’t, we requested some and he said it’s going to take hours to make the pitta. He then came back with some rock hard croutons and offered us them instead. We refused and asked him to take away the dish. Were we expected to initially eat it with a fork? One of the fish in our platter was nice but the rest (sardines/anchovies deep fried and a small piece of salmon) was distinctly average (not worth 50 euro). They did offer free watermelon and some local spirit but then they short changed us 1 euro when we paid. At this point we just left. I’m sorry but I would have to suggest avoiding this restaurant unless you are staying in Elounda for two weeks and are running out of restaurants to visit. I suspect this restaurant was once good but is now resting on its laurels of former reviews and overcharging for a sub...

Paradisos... well what can one say, its a fabulous place to sit and take lunch or dinner or a drink or two with family or friends .. Its so relaxing the atmosphere here, away from the hustle and bustle of village life and situated on the outskirts of Elounda as you enter the village, where you need to drive down a track, that takes you through the olive groves, until you come across the parking area outside. It comes highly recommended for weddings, christenings, birthday parties or a family get-together. The food is amazing, very tasy, well cooked, well presented and when you finish what is on your plate, you wish for more because of this. The staff are vvery very polite and the service is something else. The chef Nikos is one of the best I know, if not " THE BEST " ... Nikos the owner, a very obliging young guy, is always ready to make certain that you are comfortable and happy with everything whilst you are there at the taverna. The gardens surrounding the taverna itself are beautiful and very well kept at all times. Its a lovely spot that overlooks the causeway and the saltpans, depending on which table you sit at. Dont think where can I go to eat today, I have made up your mind for you .. it will be none other than at the PARADISOS TAVERNA .. the best in town as far as I am concerned.. !!! Happy...