Ntounias Traditional Cretan Food – A Culinary Journey Back to the Roots
Nestled in the serene hills of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), just 18km from Chania, Ntounias is more than just a restaurant—it's a celebration of Cretan tradition, authenticity, and slow food philosophy. This family-owned taverna and farm, led by Stelios Trilirakis, offers an immersive experience in pure, organic, and traditional Cretan gastronomy, where everything is made from scratch and cooked over wood-fired stoves.
An Authentic Farm-to-Table Experience
At Ntounias, nature sets the menu. Ingredients are sourced directly from the family's organic farm, ensuring that every dish reflects Crete's seasonal bounty.
- Wood-Fired Cooking: No gas, no electricity—just traditional wood-fired stoves, clay ovens, and "parasies" (stone-based fire pits) that give food an authentic, deep, smoky flavor.
- Homegrown Ingredients: Vegetables, olive oil, honey, wine, and dairy products are exclusively produced on-site or sourced from local farmers.
- Free-Range Livestock: The farm is home to native Cretan breeds, such as the rare Cretan Gidomouskara goat, seen in ancient Minoan frescoes.
A Culinary Theater in the Open Air
Dining at Ntounias is not just a meal—it's an experience. Instead of a menu, guests are invited into the kitchen to see what's cooking in the wood-fired clay pots and ovens.
🍽 Signature Dishes Include:
✔ Lamb slow-cooked in parchment paper
✔ Gardoumakia (stuffed lamb intestines – a Cretan delicacy)
✔ Cauliflower with Xynochondro (fermented wheat and sour milk)
✔ Freshly baked bread and award-winning rusks
✔ Cretan mountain greens, wild herbs, and farm-fresh cheese
The philosophy of slow food is truly embodied here. Stelios often greets guests with a smile, saying:
"What can I do? Slow food takes time! But that's how the best flavors come to life, right?"
Ntounias Educational Farm – A Step into Cretan Village Life
Beyond the taverna, Ntounias Farm offers an educational and interactive experience, ideal for those who want to connect with nature and traditional rural life.
🐐 Meet the rare Cretan Gidomouskara goats—a species that has been part of Cretan history for thousands of years.
🌿 Discover sustainable farming practices and learn how traditional Cretan crops are grown.
🫒 Experience the art of olive oil production, from harvesting to pressing.
The goal is to bridge the past and the present, helping visitors appreciate the simplicity and richness of rural Crete.
Visit Us
📍 Location: Drakona, Keramia, Chania, Crete
📞 Phone: +30 6974 989 248 / +30 28210 65083
✉ Email: steliostrilyrakis@gmail.com
🌍 Website: www.ntounias.gr
📷 Facebook: Ntounias Traditional Taverna
📌 TripAdvisor: Read Reviews
Why Visit Ntounias?
✅ Authentic farm-to-table experience
✅ 100% organic, slow-cooked meals
✅ Traditional Cretan recipes with no electricity, only wood-fired cooking
✅ Educational farm tours & cultural immersion
✅ Breathtaking views of the White Mountains
Whether you're a food lover, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, a visit to Ntounias Traditional Cretan Food is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Cretan gastronomy.
🌿 Come, taste, and experience the true soul of Crete. 🌿
->Check more places to eat here!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Ntounias Traditional Cretan Food
1. What makes Ntounias different from other restaurants in Crete?
Ntounias is a 100% farm-to-table taverna where all dishes are cooked exclusively on wood-fired stoves and ovens. We use organic, locally sourced ingredients from our farm, ensuring the most authentic and natural flavors of Crete.
2. Do you have a set menu, or does it change daily?
Our menu is seasonal and changes daily based on what is available from our farm and local producers. Everything is made fresh using only the best ingredients from nature.
3. Can I visit the farm and see how the food is made?
Yes! At Ntounias, we offer a unique farm experience where guests can see our organic vegetable gardens, free-range animals, and traditional cooking methods. You can also watch our wood-fired cooking process and taste dishes straight from the oven.
4. Is Ntounias vegetarian- and vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! We serve many traditional vegetarian and vegan Cretan dishes, such as wild greens, lentil dishes, wood-fired vegetables, and local pulses. Everything is seasonal and made from scratch.
5. Do I need a reservation, and how can I book a table?
Due to our limited seating and high demand, we recommend making a reservation in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can book by calling us at +30 6974 989 248 or +30 28210 65083, or by emailing steliostrilyrakis@gmail.com.
6. How do I get to Ntounias Traditional Cretan Food?
We are located in the village of Drakona, Keramia, about 18km from Chania. The best way to reach us is by car, driving through the scenic Therissos Gorge, one of Crete’s most breathtaking routes.
7. Do you serve alcohol?
Yes! We offer homemade Cretan wine, raki (tsikoudia), and other traditional beverages, all made from local, organic ingredients.
8. Are credit cards accepted, or is it cash only?
We currently accept both cash and major credit cards, making it easy for guests to pay however they prefer.
9. Do you offer gluten-free options?
Yes, since all our food is made fresh and from scratch, we can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. However, please inform us in advance so we can ensure your meal is prepared accordingly.
10. What are your opening hours?
We are open daily except for Mondays. To confirm the most up-to-date hours, check our website at www.ntounias.gr or call us at +30 6974 989 248.
🌿 Visit Ntounias and experience the true essence of Cretan cuisine, slow-cooked over a wood fire in the heart of nature! 🌿
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