Merastri

"Merastri" is one of the most famous and atmospheric restaurants in the city of Heraklion, renowned for its commitment to tradition and authenticity. This establishment is a true oasis of comfort, where visitors can immerse themselves in the gastronomic culture of the island of Crete, surrounded by ancient stone walls and lush greenery.

The main feature of the restaurant lies in its interior and method of food preparation. A rustic style reigns here: wooden beams, climbing plants, and warm light create the feeling that you are not in the center of a modern city, but in a hospitable home in the countryside. The cuisine of Greece is presented here at its best, with an emphasis on local products and ancient recipes.

This place is ideal for those seeking not just food, but a full cultural experience. "Merastri" attracts both locals and tourists with its special charm and famous wood-fired oven, in which many signature dishes are prepared, acquiring a unique aroma and taste.

If you are planning a visit to this colorful establishment, it is useful to know its exact location in advance. The restaurant is located within the city limits, making it accessible for a visit while walking around the capital of Crete.

Below are the official contact details for navigation:

At "Merastri," the main activity is enjoying flavors. Visitors should definitely try dishes cooked in the traditional wood-fired oven. Watching the chefs manage the fire and take out fragrant meat or baked vegetables is part of the performance itself. The menu abounds with classic Cretan treats, so tasting local cheeses, olives, and fresh bread will be a great start to the meal.

Besides the food, it is worth paying attention to the atmosphere. Let your gaze wander through the interior: the walls are decorated with old utensils, and the open terrace (if the season permits) is buried in the greenery of jasmine and grapevines. This is the ideal place for leisurely conversations over a glass of homemade Cretan wine, which is served here with special pride.

For photography enthusiasts, the restaurant offers many textured corners. The combination of stone, wood, and living plants creates a beautiful background for memorable shots. In the evening, when the lights are lit, the setting becomes especially romantic and cozy, encouraging a long rest after a day spent exploring the sights.

Getting to "Merastri" restaurant is quite simple, as it is located relatively close to the historical core of the city. If you are in the center, walking will take some time but will allow you to better examine the non-tourist streets. The area near the old Venetian walls can serve as a landmark.

For those who prefer comfort or are saving time, the most convenient option would be a taxi. A trip from Lions Square (Morosini) or the waterfront will take just a few minutes. It is enough to show the driver the address: Chrisostomou 17.

If you are using a rented car, it is worth thinking about parking in advance, as the streets in this area can be narrow and busy. Public transport also runs along the main arteries of the city, but you will likely have to walk a bit from the stop.

Although "Merastri" is a gastronomic venue, the place itself is steeped in the spirit of history. The building in which the restaurant is located represents a fine example of traditional architecture. In the past, such structures were often used as warehouses or workshops, but today the carefully restored stone walls and wooden beams create a unique ambiance.

The name of the establishment and its concept are closely linked to Cretan traditions. In the interior, you can spot many old household items that were used by locals decades ago. This turns an ordinary dinner into a small excursion into the past, where every detail — from clay pottery to woven tablecloths — tells of the islanders' way of life.

Special attention is paid here to preserving culinary heritage. The recipes used in the kitchen are passed down from generation to generation, reflecting the rich history of the Cretan diet, which is considered one of the healthiest and oldest in the Mediterranean.

"Merastri" is a place where time flows a little slower than in the noisy city center. To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine, we recommend setting aside from 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit. This time is enough to leisurely study the menu, wait for freshly prepared dishes, and enjoy them.

If you are planning a large dinner in company with wine and appetizers, the visit may stretch for the whole evening. A traditional Greek feast does not tolerate fuss, so allow enough time to relax and feel the real Cretan "siga-siga" (slowly).

The opening hours of "Merastri" restaurant may vary depending on the season (winter or summer period) and the day of the week. Traditionally, Greek tavernas open closer to lunch and work until late in the evening, however, the schedule may change.

To guarantee getting into the establishment and not encountering closed doors, we strongly recommend checking current information on the official website or calling the restaurant in advance. Also, a preliminary check will help find out about the necessity of booking a table, which is especially relevant on weekends and during the high tourist season.

Visiting the restaurant can be perfectly combined with exploring the city's iconic places. The area where the establishment is located allows easy access to many historical monuments and entertainment zones, making it a convenient point to end a busy excursion day.

After a hearty lunch or dinner, we recommend taking a walk to the nearest attractions to enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of the capital of Crete. Here is a list of interesting objects nearby: