Madares: Tradition on a Plate in Theriso Square!

If you're in Chania and looking for an authentic taste of Cretan tradition, head to the village of Theriso. A scenic drive will bring you to this charming spot, where in the village square you'll find the rustic Madares tavern, built from stone and wood.

Madares serves up hearty dishes inspired by Cretan cuisine, with specialties like antikristo (slow-roasted lamb cooked around an open fire) and local sausages. Many visitors rave about the spit-roasted pork (kontosouvli), lamb chops, steaks, and traditional tsigariasto—a braised meat dish bursting with flavor. Almost all ingredients come from nearby producers, ensuring each bite brings you closer to the island’s land and traditions.

Theriso itself is a quiet, soulful village with only about 80 permanent residents, who have a deep love for their home. Just 15 kilometers from Chania, you can reach it by one of two scenic routes, including a well-known gorge road that you can explore by car!

*The photo is an AI-generated product.