Pasiphae Restaurant — Restaurant in Municipality of Heraklion

A Must-Visit Gem Near the Palace of Knossos!

Pasiphae is a beautiful, family-run restaurant just a short walk from the archaeological site of Knossos—and it’s truly a hidden treasure. We stopped here after visiting the palace and were blown away by the warm hospitality, peaceful setting, and delicious food.

What makes this place truly special is the story behind it. The family grows their own vegetables right next to the restaurant in an organic garden that sits beside a grove of several hundred olive trees. You can taste the freshness in every bite—from the crisp cucumbers in the barley salad to the golden olive oil drizzled over grilled bread.

We enjoyed carbonated Zaros water, a strawberry smoothie, and a beautifully grilled chicken skewer served with fresh pita and a hearty grain salad. The olives and tomato dip starter were bursting with local flavor, and even the fries were perfectly seasoned and addictive.

The decor blends natural wood with airy open space, and the placemats feature Minoan history and Linear B script, tying in perfectly with the cultural experience of Knossos. It’s clear the owners take pride in every detail—from the food to the atmosphere.

Free shaded parking is available right outside, which is a huge plus if you’re driving. Whether you’re coming from the ruins or just looking for a meal made with love and tradition, Pasiphae is...

The restautant is just 3min away from the Knossos sightseeing area and worth staying there. This is because you have 2 options here: you can park your car under some shade giving trees if you want to go for a tour in Knossos or/and to enjoy the restaurant. I suggest you do both. The staff of the restaurant is very hospitable, very friendly and you feel very welcome here. Due to the COVID pandemic they are wearing masks and supply every table with a desinfection dispenser for your hands. Very thoughtful!

The food is is very delicious and served quickly, even if the restaurant gets a little bit crowded at times. Salads are served with olive oil here and are freshly made. They are delicious but almost too big, if you want to eat a main dish or some grill plate as well. So think carefully if you want to order a salat just for you or 2 people. The main dishes go from traditional Greek food like the Mussaka (which is traditionally served in a bowl) to the already mentioned grill plates and pasta. After finished with your meal the staff serves you, as it is tradition in Crete, with some ice cold liquor and even some chocolate sweets if you intend to finish off with a coffee. All in all a very pleasant experience there. Definitely recommended and the prizes are very moderate here especially for a sightseeing place...

Opa! Hold onto your taste buds, because this Greek restaurant is like a culinary vacation to the Mediterranean without the jet lag! Picture this: You walk in, and you're greeted like you're joining a family feast - just with less arguing about whose turn it is to wash dishes.

The food? Oh my Zeus, it's like they have a direct line to Mount Olympus. The souvlaki? So tender it melts in your mouth. The moussaka? Creamy, cheesy heaven in every bite. And don't even get me started on their tzatziki - it's so good you'll want to bathe in it.

The serving staff? They've mastered the art of making you feel like a Greek god or goddess. They're friendly, attentive, and always ready with a joke or a recommendation. Plus, they've got this knack for knowing just when to bring you another glass of that fine Greek wine.

And let's not forget the local vibes. It's like they brought a piece of Greece right to your table. You'll be shouting 'Opa!' and breaking plates (well, not really) in no time.

So, if you're in the mood for an unforgettable Greek food adventure with a side of laughter, this restaurant is your ticket. Just remember, it's not only about the food; it's about the experience, and they've got that down to a gyro science!"

Hope this brings a smile to your face and tempts your taste...