Traditional mezedokafenes “Manolis”: Seasonal dishes made with pure ingredients in Atsipopoulo

At Manolis’ kafeneio in Atsipopoulo, Rethymno, you won’t find a menu. Instead, you’ll savor the day’s dishes, always prepared with fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients.

Originally a humble coffee shop, this small taverna has kept its traditional charm while adding delicious small plates to its offerings.

Manolis serves simple, traditional dishes bursting with flavor, complemented by his warm hospitality and the incredible cooking of his wife, Eleni.

In this cozy spot, accompanied by live music, try delightful flavors alongside a glass of raki. Highlights include wild greens with tomatoes hand-picked by Manolis himself, expertly prepared homemade dishes, sautéed goat with xinomizithra cheese, rabbit with okra, mouthwatering meatballs, and many more small plates.

The meats are sourced from a local butcher, while vegetables come from nearby farmers and their own garden.

Manolis has a gift for identifying rare wild greens, which he gathers with great skill and transforms into exceptional dishes!