Chrisostomos

Chrisostomos is one of the most respected restaurants in Ierapetra — the southernmost city in Europe, located on the narrow southern coastal strip of eastern Crete where the island is at its narrowest point between the Cretan and Libyan seas. Ierapetra is often overlooked by visitors who concentrate on the north coast, but its position gives it a character distinct from the better-known Cretan towns: a genuine provincial city with its own food culture, ferry connections to the small island of Chryssi (known for its flamingo colonies and cedar forest), and some of the finest fresh seafood in Crete. Chrisostomos at Kothri 20 has built its reputation on exactly this: fresh local catch and good Cretan grilling presented with a warm, knowledgeable welcome from staff who are genuinely invested in the restaurant's reputation. Sea bream (tsipoura) is the defining grilled fish here — the Libyan Sea produces excellent specimens and the kitchen prepares them simply and confidently. Prawn saganaki baked in a tomato, ouzo, and feta sauce is one of the more popular main courses and is reliable. Grilled swordfish appears when seasonal supply allows and is worth ordering. Cretan salad — a regional variant of the standard Greek salad incorporating local dakos, Cretan feta or graviera, and quality olive oil — is the standard opener. The friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff are also known for practical assistance with day trips to Chryssi Island: boats depart from Ierapetra harbour and the restaurant is a good source of current information about schedules. Reservations are recommended in summer. Average spend is around €22 per person.