KOUZEINERI

"We ended up dining at this restaurant twice during our four-day trip simply because the food was just that good. The beef was excellent, the grilled vegetables were even better, and the fried chicken wings are an absolute must-try.

They also have an impressive wine cellar with a wide selection. Since we’re from France, we especially appreciated the chance to explore some great local Cretan wines.

The service was incredibly warm and attentive honestly, it felt like Michelin-level hospitality. I would gladly recommend this place to anyone visiting Crete. It was one of the true highlights of our trip."

vera zheung

"The food was spectacular! Perfectly cooked steaks that were larger than expected. The Cretan salad and chicken bites were amazing too, almost a full meal with just them.

Kosta our server was excellent and tended to our every need, with some helpful banter on the city and Greek life in general.

The atmosphere was great and not as noisy as other spots in the city. Definitely a higher class of restaurant in the city."

Jess Howland

"Absolutely delicious experience at Kouzeineri Steak House – a meaty dream come true!

We stopped by Kouzeineri Steak House around 5 PM – perfect timing, as the place wasn’t too crowded yet, and we could fully enjoy the vibe without the dinner rush. And oh, what a feast it was!

We kicked things off with Buffalo chicken wings as a starter – and wow, they were spot-on: perfectly spiced, just the right level of heat, and served with a herby yogurt dip that we could honestly eat by the spoonful. A perfect start!

For the mains, my husband went big with the ribeye steak – beautifully grilled, juicy, with grilled veggies and some baby potatoes that were so good we debated stealing them from each other. I had the half chicken – and let me tell you, it was a real half chicken, no bones, full flavor. Served with veggies and a bright chimichurri sauce that made each bite better than the last.

We thought we were done... but of course, “for the house,” came a generous slice of cake. Super tasty, though after all that food, I could only manage a few bites – but it's the thought (and sugar) that counts!

The service was warm and attentive, and the overall atmosphere was relaxed but classy – a great spot for meat lovers. Now, if I had to nitpick... the steak price was a bit of a surprise. It was listed as €42 for 350g, but the waiter only mentioned after we ordered that they only had 400g cuts. Not a dealbreaker, but that info would’ve been nice before the decision. Also – €7 for sparkling water? That bottle better have come from the Alps personally escorted by goats.

Total bill: €114 (2 Paulaner beers, 1 gin & tonic, mains, starter, water, dessert “on the house”).

All in all, an absolutely fantastic meal – one of the best we had in Heraklion. We’d go back in a heartbeat (maybe just bring our own water next time!)."

MAGDA WODNICKA