Peskesi

Peskesi is in the old centre of Heraklion, on a side street a few minutes’ walk from the Morosini Fountain and Lions Square, and it is the most-reviewed restaurant in Crete, with more than 15,000 Google reviews. It has built its reputation on traditional Cretan cooking, presented with care in a restored old building in the historic centre.

It is the obvious dinner if you base yourself in Heraklion for Knossos and the Archaeological Museum, and a good introduction to Cretan food before you head out across the island. With that level of popularity it is booked out on many summer evenings, so reserve a table ahead, or aim for an early lunch. Prices are above an ordinary taverna, but in line with the care that goes into the food.