Places List

Just an hour's drive from Heraklion and only 5 minutes from the famous Matala beach, you'll find Green Kukunari in the charming village of Pitsidia — quite possibly the most well-known vegan restaurant in Crete, and definitely a spot worth visiting.

What makes it special? The warm and inviting atmosphere, the creative and delicious plant-based dishes, and the peaceful courtyard where you can also enjoy your coffee or drink.
It’s the perfect stop after a stroll through Matala or a swim at nearby Kommos beach — two must-see places during your holiday in Crete.

To Stachi is a long-running family restaurant serving hearty Greek food—with an emphasis on homegrown veggies and olive oil from their own farm. The menu is vegetarian and leans heavily vegan, offering stews, stuffed vegetables, pies, and legume-based dishes. Every meal feels like it was made at home, with rich flavors and simple, high-quality ingredients.
This is a place where you can relax and enjoy genuine Cretan hospitality; the owners often greet guests themselves and are passionate about explaining the origins of each dish. Many people come back for the warmth and for specialties like the vegan moussaka or slow-cooked beans. Portions are substantial, and the atmosphere is friendly, unpretentious, and welcoming to all ages.

Nestled in the heart of Heraklion, Veganato is a delightful vegan spot that invites you to savor a creative menu filled with fresh, plant-based dishes. This charming eatery offers a variety of flavorful options, from hearty bowls to mouthwatering desserts, all crafted with high-quality ingredients. Guests rave about the welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and the vibrant flavors that celebrate the essence of vegan cuisine. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply looking to try something new, Veganato promises a memorable dining experience that showcases the best of plant-based dining in Crete.

Pulse Vegan Restaurant in Chania is all about creative, plant-based Cretan food. The menu covers everything from vegan moussaka to vegetable risottos, burgers, wraps, salads, soups, and unique homemade desserts. Diners appreciate the effort put into making traditional local recipes entirely vegan, and the kitchen uses fresh, local vegetables and authentic Greek spices. The setting is cozy, colorful, and casual, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers looking for a straightforward, wholesome meal.
Most guests praise the friendly, attentive staff who are happy to explain ingredients or offer recommendations. Pulse is also known for generous portions and a rotating selection of handmade cakes and sweets. It’s a reliable spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner, with satisfying options for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone wanting to try plant-based versions of Cretan classics.

Located in the vibrant heart of Crete, Tiny Rebels is a cozy vegan café that offers an array of delicious plant-based dishes. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, this charming spot serves everything from hearty sandwiches and fresh salads to delectable desserts, all made with love and high-quality ingredients. Guests appreciate the creative menu and the friendly service that make each visit special. With a focus on sustainability and healthy eating, Tiny Rebels is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy flavorful vegan cuisine while soaking in the local vibe of Crete.

Located about a 15–20 minute walk from Heraklion city center, Charlotte is the city’s first fully vegan pastry shop. Chara, the pastry chef behind Charlotte, prepares fresh handmade vegan desserts every day, all free from refined sugar and gluten, with a strong focus on quality ingredients and freshness.

It’s definitely worth a visit if you enjoy healthier and more unique sweet treats. Since everything is made in small batches daily, many items tend to sell out early. It’s a good idea to contact the shop in advance to check availability before visiting.

Freshly made every day — so don’t wait too long!

Perched on the cliffs above the Libyan Sea, Levinthos is one of the most special places you will find in southern Crete. This family-run, eco-friendly retreat centre is named after the enormous rock nearby that resembles a seated lion — and the setting is every bit as dramatic as that suggests. The views are breathtaking, the energy is calm, and the pace of life here is exactly what you come to Lentas for.
Levinthos offers 8 rooms and apartments, all thoughtfully designed and overlooking the sea. A small, almost private beach lies just below the cliffs, with crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming. The whole complex blends beautifully into its surroundings, built with an ecological sensitivity that feels genuine rather than performative.
For vegans and vegetarians, Levinthos is a particularly good find. The food is fresh, wholesome and made largely from locally grown ingredients — think seasonal vegetables, figs, broad beans, homemade jams and honey from the surrounding land. Breakfasts are generous and nourishing, and the restaurant is known for its warm, unpretentious hospitality.
Beyond accommodation, Levinthos also hosts yoga retreats and wellness programmes, making it a favourite among travellers seeking both rest and deeper experience. Lentas village is a pleasant ten-minute walk away.

A wonderful pastry shop with plenty of vegan options, just 10 minutes from the center of Heraklion.
Aristea’s desserts and ice creams are truly irresistible — and the best part? They’re probably the healthiest treats you can find: raw, sugar-free, and with many gluten-free and diabetic-friendly options.
Bonus for parents: it's located right in front of a pedestrian area that's perfect for kids to play safely, so you can actually enjoy your coffee in peace.
Small downside: it’s close to the airport, so it can get a bit noisy at times..

Tucked at the entrance of the charming village of Lentas, Meeraki is one of those places you stumble upon and never forget. Housed in a former bakery, this cosy café-restaurant has been transformed into a relaxed, welcoming spot with its own distinct personality — blues playing softly in the background, board games on the shelves, and plants everywhere you look.
Run by a team of young, friendly people, Meeraki serves simple, healthy food made with fresh local ingredients from breakfast through to dinner. The menu is creative and varied, with some excellent vegan options to choose from. Start your morning with their fluffy vegan pancakes, a perfect way to fuel up before a day at the beach. For lunch or dinner, don't miss the falafel wrap — crispy, golden falafel served with delicious accompaniments — or the vegan pizza, generously topped and full of flavour.
What makes Meeraki special is its atmosphere. It sits away from the seafront tavernas that line the rest of the village, which gives it a quieter, more intimate feel. It is the kind of place where you sit down for a coffee and end up staying for hours.

Crumb is a cozy café just outside the center of Heraklion. It offers a delicious mix of sweet and savory flavors and is a great spot for breakfast or brunch. Don’t miss the vegan croissant — it’s absolutely amazing!

Third Eye has been serving vegetarian and vegan food in Palaiochora for years and is a favorite among both travelers and locals. It sits just a short walk from the water and has a breezy, open-air seating area surrounded by shade. The menu changes every day but usually includes things like veggie curries, salad bowls, fresh juices, sandwiches, and creative vegan desserts.
People love coming here for a long breakfast or a laid-back dinner after the beach. The staff is friendly and used to catering for all sorts of dietary needs. What makes Third Eye special is the relaxed pace, the positive energy, and the wide variety—whether you’re hungry for a light snack or a full vegan feast, you’re covered.

To Rimadi is a charming vegan restaurant located in the center of Heraklion, offering a unique culinary experience. With a menu filled with fresh, local ingredients, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes that celebrate plant-based cuisine. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for enjoying delicious meals with friends and family. From traditional Cretan recipes reimagined in vegan style to creative dishes, To Rimadi is dedicated to providing flavors that satisfy every palate. It’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to blend their love for plant-based dining with the local culture of Heraklion.