Spinalonga Fish Taverna

Spinalonga Fish Taverna sits on the small harbour front in Elounda in eastern Crete, occupying a position that makes it the natural bookend to a visit to Spinalonga Island — the Venetian fortress and Ottoman fortification that later served as one of Europe's last active leprosy colonies, now Crete's most visited historical site. Boats to Spinalonga depart from Elounda harbour regularly throughout the day during the tourist season, and the fish taverna is the most convenient quality dining option both before departure and after return. The format is classic Greek fish taverna: fresh fish and seafood displayed on ice at the entrance, a straightforward menu of grilled whole fish, fried calamari, shrimp preparations, and classic Greek salads. The fish is sourced locally from the Gulf of Mirabello — one of Crete's most scenic and sheltered bays — and the quality is consistently good. Grilled fish of the day (always worth asking what is freshest) is the primary order. Fried calamari prepared to the Greek standard — light batter, properly hot, with lemon and a handful of sea salt — is one of the best starter choices. Shrimp with ouzo and tomato sauce, known as garides saganaki, rounds out the reliable seafood options. The restaurant looks directly across the narrow strait towards the distinctive silhouette of Spinalonga Island and its Venetian walls. This view, combined with accessible pricing (average around €28 per person) and good-quality simple food, makes it one of the most visited restaurants in the village. Operations run daily from 11:00 to 22:00. No reservations are required for most visits.