Via Pastarella — Restaurant in Municipality of Heraklion

한국분들은 다른 선택지 많으니 굳이 불쾌한 경험 하지 마시고 다른 옵션 생각하시라고 글 남겨요. 특별히 맛있지도 않아요. I visited this restaurant recently, and unfortunately, it turned out to be one of the most disappointing experiences during my trip.

I asked for the carbonara served with melted Grana Padano cheese, which is clearly shown on the menu. The waiter told me it wasn’t available, so I settled for the regular carbonara. I also ordered sparkling water, which was simply left on the table unopened — I poured it myself.

Normally, it’s standard in most restaurants for staff to open bottled drinks and pour them for the guest. I noticed this, but assumed the service style here was just more casual and let it go without complaint.

However, as I looked around, I saw that other tables were being served still water in simple PET bottles — and even that was carefully poured into their glasses by the staff. That was the first moment I felt something was off.

Later, I saw the Grana Padano version of the carbonara being served at another table — the very dish I was told was unavailable. When I raised this with the staff, a supervisor came after I insisted. He did apologize, which I appreciated, but by then my entire experience had already been ruined.

I don’t want to jump to conclusions about discrimination based on race or nationality. However, being the only Asian guest at the time made it hard not to wonder. Regardless of the cause, it was the staff member’s inconsistency and lack of professionalism that created doubt and disappointment. That alone is unacceptable.

It's also worth noting that this city doesn’t only attract tourists — it regularly hosts international academic conferences and events, welcoming visitors from all over the world. Restaurants in such a setting carry a special responsibility to treat every guest with equal respect.

I hope this feedback leads to better training, awareness, and consistency in service. Every guest deserves to feel welcome, respected, and...

I had my proposal here few years ago...with my Greek husband. It is a beautiful place and very tasty food. Today I decided to come by myself. When I entered the shop and started speaking English the smile from waiter's face disappeared immediately. Waiters looked at me very suspicious and I was waiting for a glass of water and my cocktail about 10 minutes... Like always delicious pasta and good Greek wine. I know very well how Greek restaurants work and I know that after your meal they always bring some small treats/desserts complimentary from the Chef. I was so disappointed when I saw other tables enjoying their small treats that their waiter brought them... and I wasn't even asked if I would like to have one. Every single table and every single person have received their small treat, except me. What a shame. It's very very pity... Looks like guys that work there are not interested of getting any tips and definitely, are not interested in constant clients. Come on! To separate Greek guests and treat them better that guests from the abroad (tourists)... I would never ever expect anything like that in this place! I'm not sure if I will be back here again as it was my favorite place in Heraklio, but...

I’m beyond upset that a restaurant would allow this type of treatment. I came in tonight (around 22:00) with my mother after traveling all day, hoping to grab dinner. When we arrived, there was one couple in front of us who asked for a table for two and were seated right away. There was also another open table visible.

Shortly after, another couple came in behind us. The hostess/waitress looked directly at us, blatantly glanced us up and down—even though we were dressed nicely in sun dresses—and then ignored us. She immediately seated the couple who had just arrived instead. Finally, she turned to us with a smug expression, as if we were bothering her.

When my mom politely said, “We’d like a table for two,” the hostess rolled her eyes and replied, “They’re all full.” My mom asked how long the wait would be, and she just said, “No idea,” and stared at us without offering any help.

It was humiliating and deeply upsetting, especially after such a long travel day. It was clear we were being singled out, not because of availability, but because of how we looked—despite the fact that we were appropriately dressed and nothing but kind and respectful. No guest should ever be...