A Journey of Cretan Flavors, Wines & Spirits
The Feast
– Dakos
Hard Cretan rusk with grated organic cherry tomatoes and “Mizithra” cheese with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
– Apaki
Cured, smoked & marinated pork cuts seared in extra virgin olive oil and finished off with “Petimezi” (grape molasses). Topped with “Xinomizithra” cheese and rosemary.
– Dolmades
Tender vine leaf rolls stuffed with rice and Cretan herbs, simmered in a lemon broth & served with strained Greek yogurt sauce.
– Kolokithakia
Thinly sliced zucchini, lightly coated in flour & double fried in olive oil. Topped with aged “Graviera” cheese and rosemary.
– Patates
Fresh thick-cut potatoes, double fried in olive oil, topped with sea salt, thyme & aged goat cheese. Served with “Tzatziki” on the side.
– Tsigariasto
Tender lamb cuts that are simmering in extra virgin olive oil & their own fat, for over 4 hours (as practised by the Minoans 3000 years ago). Topped with salt & fresh thyme.
- Inform us during checkout about allergies & vegetarianism. Everything will be adjusted. We do not accommodate vegans.
- All our ingredients are locally sourced and 100% organic. Everything is cooked or seared in extra virgin olive oil.
- We deep-fry exclusively on light olive oil, we do not use any commercial vegetable oils.
The Pairings
Tsikoudia
Crystal-clear Cretan tsikoudia has gentle grape aromas on the nose with light herbal hints, while the palate is smooth, warm and clean. It is made by distilling fermented grape pomace in small copper stills, following the traditional method used across Crete for generations.
Rhoditis
Rhoditis, a white grape variety, produces wines with fresh fruity aromas and lively acidity, while its expression changes according to altitude and winemaking style. In mountain vineyards the wines are crisper, more complex and with mineral notes, while at lower altitudes they are fruitier and softer.
Assyrtiko
Dry Assyrtiko shows aromas of lemon, lime, and subtle yellow fruits with a hint of minerality, and an elegant palate with bright acidity and a persistent finish. As a world-class grape of Santorini, it reflects volcanic soils, native resilience, and a wide modern appeal.
Vidiano
Native Cretan grape, rescued from near extinction, now thrives across Crete and northern Greece. Dry Vidiano, known as the white ‘diva’, shows aromas of apricot, bergamot, and subtle florals, with a rich, well-rounded palate, hints of vanilla, and invigorating citrus acidity.
Muscat Of Spinas
Muscat of Spinas, named after the village near Chania, shows intense floral and citrus aromas with a hint of spice, and a fine, pleasantly dry palate with elegant, delicate character. Native Cretan grape, prized for its small berries and fragrant expression.
Malagousia
Malagousia shows aromas of lemon blossom, rose petal, and white stone fruits, with a firm, mineral-driven palate and refreshing acidity. Once nearly extinct, this Greek grape now thrives mainly in Northern Greece, producing some of the most aromatic examples.
Merlot
Merlot produces medium-bodied red and rosé wines with aromas of black cherry, berries, and subtle toffee, complemented by gentle vegetal hints. Its smooth palate shows balanced acidity, soft tannins, and, when oaked, notes of vanilla, tobacco, and earthy nuances.
Romeiko
Romeiko, grown in the Chania region, shows delicate aromas and a light-colored, smooth palate with moderate acidity and high alcohol. This versatile grape also produces sun-dried sweet wines, white wines, and the traditional dry ‘Marouvas’ with Sherry-like character.
Kotsifali
Cretan red grape, cultivated since at least the 14th century, known for producing soft-colored, aromatic wines with moderate acidity. Kotsifali shows aromas of red summer fruits, dried figs, and hints of wild herbs and sweet spices, with a smooth, medium-bodied palate.
Mavrodaphne
Mavrodaphne produces dry or dessert wines with aromas of dark fruit, chocolate, and coffee, complemented by subtle vegetal notes. Medium to full-bodied, it shows moderate acidity and tannins, and ages gracefully, developing hints of ink, tar, and tea.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Considered by many as the king of red varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon shows aromas of blackcurrant, pepper, and hints of chocolate and eucalyptus, depending on terroir. Medium-bodied with moderate acidity and tannins, its deep purple color softens with age, offering a structured yet approachable palate.
Agiorgitiko
Agiorgitiko, Nemea’s signature red grape, shows aromas of fresh red fruits, sweet spices, and hints of chocolate, with a soft to medium-bodied palate, balanced acidity, and supple tannins. Versatile and elegant, it produces young juicy reds, oak-aged wines with complexity, and even rosés or dessert wines from sun-dried grapes.
Muscat Of Samos
Renowned since the 16th century, this iconic Greek grape thrives on terraced Samos vineyards, producing award-winning dessert wines with elegant complexity. Muscat of Samos shows intense aromas of orange blossom, ripe apricot, and honeyed citrus, with a luscious, sweet palate balanced by bright acidity.
Rakomelo
Rakomelo, a traditional Cretan spirit made by infusing “Tsikoudia” with honey and spices, shows aromas of warm honey, clove, and cinnamon. Smooth and warming on the palate, it delivers a sweet-spiced character with gentle heat, perfect as a digestif or after-dinner treat.
Our Approach
We focus on simple, traditional Cretan dishes, crafted to perfection using the finest local ingredients. We celebrate the flavors of the island in their purest form, honoring centuries-old recipes and techniques. You’ll come here to experience what Crete truly has to offer gastronomically — not fine dining or elaborate presentation.
Guest Testimonials
Super gezellige avond met heerlijk eten en geweldige wijnen. Ook het personeel was erg vriendelijk en leuk. Een top ervaring! Helaas is het niet mogelijk om sommige van de geproefde wijnen uit Kreta te bestellen in mijn thuisland, Jammer dat ze niet exporteren, zou heel graag sommige wijnen thuis willen hebben!
This was the most amazing experience. The food was fantastic. The wine tasting was incredible. We met some wonderful people. It was the experience of a lifetime. If you are visiting Crete it is a must do. The views were amazing.
Our dinner at the Secret Gorge was an unforgettable experience, highly recommended by our hotel. We were welcomed with warm hospitality by Sifis and his father, whose company and stories added a unique charm to the evening. The food was exceptional, a true taste of the local cuisine, and the wine flowed freely, enhancing the delightful atmosphere. The evening was filled with laughter and interesting conversations, making it an intimate dining treat not to be missed. A perfect 10/10 experience—thank you, Sifis and your father, for an amazing night!
What an experience! If you are looking for an authentic experience with LOTS of wine, look no more...Sifis was a great host, very charming, knowledgeable, respectful, and fun! His Dad's food was exceptionally delicious, and as a chief, he had the fatherly love of "eat your food"🤣🤣 We got lucky with a group of people that made the experience even more enjoyable. It's as if we knew each other for years ❤️ The view of the terrace added to the charm of this experience...if I'm ever back in Crete I'm definitely coming back!
Thank you Sifis and Micel for a wonderful evening. Spectacular views, outstanding food and perfectly paired with delicious wine. Our best experience in Crete, and would recommend to everyone!
This was an amazing experience! Thank you both for a wonderful meal, education on local food and really fun company!
The host (son) and chef (father) were amazing people who opened up their hearts to us with their amazing food and wisdom from their homeland. Highly recommend it to anybody who wants to experience the island of Crete through the food and wine. Very tasty, very amazing, and such rich history all explained and cooked by the father and son who are very warmhearted people. My wife and I were on our honeymoon and were treated with the most care and service. Can not explain enough how rich this experience was. Highly highly highly recommend 🙏🏼😊😊😊 Bravo!!!!
Very unique experience. Would recommend it to anyone.
A wonderful night trying local dishes and sampling 8 delicious wines. The location couldn't be better and the hospitality was great from Sifis and his dad. Highly recommend!
This place is magical, romantic, and picturesque perfect. Sifis, was an amazing host his knowledge of the wines amd the love that goes into the food is unmatched The views is breathtaking just a great experience
We had a very nice experience at this place, if u come to crete its definitely a place u must see. We had the best wine and food here on our whole trip. 🫶
A great experience with beautiful views! The owners make wine tasting a real experience! 100% recommendation!
Wir hatten einen wunderschönen Abend und wurden sehr gut bekocht. Die Auswahl an Weinen war überragend. Danke auch für das authentische Auftreten des Gastgebers!
We visited this beautiful, cozy place yesterday and we didn't know, what to expect. Sifis and his father welcomed our group very heartly and guided us well informed through all the different wines and dishes. The wines are perfectly chosen for each dish. Each course harmonized. The atmosphere was very chill and we had some good chats with Sifis and had the chance to enjoy some stories of his life on Crete and get in touch with his favourite music. :D The whole experience was awesome and i will remember this evening for a long time.
An unforgettable evening. Thanks to Sifis and his family for serving us one of the best traditional Greek dishes we have ever tasted. The ambience, the view and the atmosphere are unique and definitely worth the money. Sifis spent the entire evening explaining a lot to us about the best wines in Crete and they were all really excellent. A family business that takes care of its guests with all its heart and passion and truly fulfills every wish. Thank you for this unique and special evening. Everyone in our group of 11 got their money's worth, more than enough food and wine for everyone! We were extremely happy and can only recommend that everyone give Sifis and his family the chance and convince themselves of these wonderful people, excellent food and excellent wines. Definitely the highlight of our vacation, thank you very much.
Thank you for the great night I can recommend this to any group looking to adventure Cretan cuisine paired with local varieties of wine, a cozy atmosphere and welcoming personal
An unforgettable evening. Misail and Sifis were amazing hosts. Every course and wine pairing were exceptional and the personal touch will make this a sure recommendation to all our friends. You cannot go wrong with an evening here.
We had the most incredible experience with Sifis and his father! It’s was a Cretan culinary delight paired with an amazing selection of wines, food and ambiance! Highly recommended to anyone that wants to experience traditional Greek food and wine!!
Absolutely gorgeous evening, in the most surreal settings. Carefully prepared, fresh thoughtful courses. Hosted by a wonderful family. Was the perfect evening in every way. Highly recommend!
What a brilliant experience we have had! Perfect food with amazing wine and great service. We are so impressed and delighted. Definitely recommend everyone to visit and try! Thank you so much