Finding the best romantic dining experience in Chania could be tricky due to the amount of ‘touristy’ restaurants serving almost the same types of Cretan dishes that lack that special factor. We have done the work for you by providing our top picks for that ‘one fine night’ tailored to your own preference:

1. Mon.Es Restaurant

40, 4th Kallinikou Sarpaki Due, Chania 721 32, Greece 

Reservations: +30 2821 052129

Upscale dining set in a 15th century Venetian stone building that is tastefully renovated. Elegant minimalism is the best way to describe it. A luxury dining experience without being overly-expensive. Mon.Es serves inventive Cretan Cuisine done with a sense of romance. Food here is not only instagram-worthy but also a burst of experience in your mouth. Perfect for couples who don’t only dine for food but also for that contemporary experience.

2. Periplous

Vivilaki 25 Tabakaria, Chania 731 33, Greece
Reservations: +30 2821 043300

Situated in the most astounding location just right next to the sea, Periplous is the place to be for a romantic sunset dinner. The interior is a stylish blend of industrial minimalism with dramatic natural stone work. This restaurant wins for its dramatic setting and overall serene ambience away from the bustling old town. Their interpretation of Mediterranean gourmet dishes is performed with attention to details. Strong emphasis on the quality of the ingredients is apparent (you can even view the fish before preparation) and the flavors are extraordinary. The wine selection is also creditable with a selection of local and international wines. We can guarantee you that a wonderful dining experience awaits here so you better call for reservation.

3. Pallas Thalassa

Akti Tompazi, Chania 731 00, Greece

Reservations: +30 2821 045688

Experience Chania’s Old Town like no other. Thalassa is situated at the rooftop garden of Pallas restaurant in the heart of old town Chania. A panoramic view of the harbour while dining makes this restaurant brilliant for that romantic scene. The menu features modern Mediterranean cuisine mixed with a good selection of sushi. Seats are limited at the rooftop, so make sure you call in to reserve a spot.

4. Salis

Akti Enoseos 3, Chania 731 32, Greece

Reservations: +30 2821 043700

Salis is proud to exclusively use locally-sourced ingredients from farms and producers within Crete. Serving a seasonal menu, the restaurant offers Mediterraneaan cuisine with a modern twist. Located just along Chania’s harbour, the restaurant both have an indoor and outdoor space where you can opt to watch people roaming around this busy street. The concept of this restaurant is a fresh take on that Cretan experience due to their contemporary approach. They also offer an extensive range of local wines, which make it a must visit for wine lovers.

5. The Five Restaurant

Akti Papanikoli 15, Chania 731 36, Greece

Reservations: +30 2821 086596

If you’re looking for an escape from the big crowds of the Old Town, and prefer a beachfront dining experience instead, then head down to The Five. This is a new restaurant in town offering well-known Mediterranean dishes. Believe it or not, the food is as good as it looks, and the breeze from sea makes the trip down here worthwhile. We recommend going for the sunset and you will for sure have that laid-back dining experience.