A restaurant-pizzeria, a smart and insightful entrepreneur and a talented chef form a trio that is not often found in the world of taste. When this place also talks about Cretan delicacies, the visit to the courtyard becomes almost mandatory!
If someone asked what he achieved, Katerina Xekalo by opening the restaurant Garden, The answer would be straightforward: change the restaurant reality of Rethymno, bringing modern dining to the city, without abandoning its ties to its birthplace and Cretan tradition.
However, it did one more thing. The Palace served as the springboard for the revival of the old city of Rethymno, contributing to the journey that elevated it to one of the most beautiful traditional settlements in Greece.
The restaurant is housed in a 16th-century building, a characteristic example of the architectural aesthetics of the era. Kingdom di Candia. Without a trace of excess, one rarely has the opportunity to dine in a space that preserves the aesthetic appeal of another era, while simultaneously enjoying contemporary flavors imbued with the aura of the tradition of an island that has developed its own distinctive gastronomic identity.
An equally important element of the architectural ensemble is, of course, the courtyard… The historical elements surrounding it remind of the special identity of the space, while the abundant greenery, with real plants and not with green painted walls, adds a romantic dimension that transports you to another era.
A little extra touch to the cake, but also a tribute to the island that produces the famous Cretan olive oil. Vassilis Leonidou. It may not be from Rethymnon or Crete in general, but it comes from another region of Greece with a strong tradition in olive production: Agrinio.
His presence in the court is reflected not only in his talent, which translates into exceptional dishes, but also in his personality. highlighting the essential relationship between good food and quality olive oil. It may sound paradoxical for a country with such a deep tradition in olive production, however, the average consumer does not always know how crucial the quality of olive oil is for the final taste result, nor how important its proper use in the kitchen is. In this field, the Villa, with its award-winning knowledge of Vasilis Leonidas, proves to be a pioneer.
As for its culinary offering, the Court offers an interesting menu featuring a strong Cretan flavor, presented in a stylish, modern menu. In addition, it proposes a tasting menu that, if you choose to follow it, will guide you through the Cretan culinary tradition.
To convince you of its value, we don’t need to mention specific dishes. After all, Cretan cuisine doesn’t need special recommendations to prove its value and quality. On the other hand, a restaurant that knows its subject well and respects its guests must also respect seasonality, adapting its menu accordingly.
After all of this, the only thing left is to get to Crete, choose the Rethymno And sit down at a table in the Courtyard. Let Katerina Xkalou and Vassilis Leonidou lead you on a gastronomic experience that combines history, Cretan tradition, and modern creativity.
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