Zen of Crete • Cretan cuisine with a modern twist — Restaurant in Municipality of Archane - Asterousia

Come to this place if you want to feel the authentic Cretan hospitality.

We were looking for a nice place to eat after our long visit to Knossos, and found this restaurant had best reviews in vicinity. Once we got there we were greeted by the owner (Georgia), but the restaurant was unfortunately closed for cleaning.

When she realized we were starving, she recommended another restaurant in the village which was opening in an hour, and offered us a glass of wine and a quick mezze while we’re waiting - which ended up being a feast of olives, cheese, bread and figs, and probably the best meal we had in Greece, and in lovely company of Georgia and her family.

My biggest regret is that this was our last day in Crete, and we haven’t had a chance to let Georgia cook a proper meal for us. But it gives us another reason...

I'm so happy that place we went to on our first night in Archanes was not able to accommodate us second time and we ended up at Zen of Crete. The hostess/ owner is one of the sweetest persons on Earth, no kidding. Every dish was superb, however the home made pasta and aubergine dip are to die for. The wine is being served in proper glasses, which adds to the experience. The owner tries to recreate food that her grandmother and mother were cooking for her, using only authentic local ingredients. And it works! If we ever going to be in Archanes again, Zen of Crete would be our first stop. Thank you for great atmosphere and...

Did not have a bad meal the entire time that we stayed in Archanes, a lovely mountain village about 20 minutes from Heraklion. However, Zen of Crete was the best meal we had during our four-night stay. Liked it so much that our party went back for dinner on Sunday after lunch on Friday. The lamb pasta was exceptional and the lamb lollipops and grilled pork were also delicious. Everybody who had the salad options at our table raved and I don't think any of the 20+ people I saw dine at the restaurant during our stay had a bad thing to say about any...