We ate at this wonderful restaurant four times during our week long stay in Episkopi ... a testament to the wonderful food and hospitality! We chose multiple small plates to share as a group; our particular favourites were the sweet and salty feta cheese with kantaifi and rakomelo, the deliciously smoky aubergine salad, the traditional dakos with fresh tomatoes, anthogalo and wonderfully rich olive oil and the simple yet incredibly flavourful green salad with bee pollen, pastelli and mezithra cheese. All the dishes served were presented with care and were excellent value for money. The family who run the restaurant were so welcoming and took great pride in the food they served and making sure their guests had a fantastic meal. If we ever find ourselves back in Episkopi, we will be back in a flash! Don't miss this fantastic Cretan eatery!
Overview
Located in the heart of Episkopi, Greece, Cretan Cuisine Murelo offers a unique and authentic dining experience that showcases the best of Cretan food culture. As soon as you step inside, you're welcomed by the warm, rustic ambiance of the restaurant, setting the tone for an unforgettable meal. Cretan cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and rich history, and Murelo does a fantastic job of bringing these elements to life. Whether you're a local or a visitor exploring the island, a visit to Cretan Cuisine Murelo is an experience you don't want to miss.
One of the things that make Cretan Cuisine Murelo stand out is its menu. The variety and quality of dishes reflect the rich agricultural heritage of Crete. From fresh seafood to flavorful lamb dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The restaurant takes great pride in using locally sourced ingredients, which enhances the overall dining experience. Many of the dishes incorporate olive oil, a key element in Cretan cooking, renowned for its rich flavor and health benefits. For those with a preference for lighter fare, Cretan salads made with locally grown vegetables and a dash of olive oil are perfect.
Among the most popular dishes at Cretan Cuisine Murelo is the lamb with potatoes. Cooked to perfection, this dish exemplifies the slow-cooked techniques that are integral to Cretan cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The lamb is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, with the roasted potatoes providing the perfect accompaniment. For those who enjoy seafood, the grilled fish, often freshly caught from the Mediterranean, offers a light yet savory option. The fish is perfectly seasoned and served with a side of traditional Cretan salads and a sprinkle of olive oil.
What also sets Murelo apart is its emphasis on creating an immersive experience. The restaurant doesn't just serve food; it serves a story. The dishes are inspired by recipes passed down through generations, ensuring that each bite tells a piece of Cretan history. The waitstaff are knowledgeable and eager to share the cultural significance behind each dish, offering guests a deeper connection to the food they are enjoying. It’s an opportunity to learn about Crete’s culinary history while indulging in some of its best offerings.
Aside from the main courses, Cretan Cuisine Murelo also offers a selection of delicious desserts, such as the renowned Cretan honey pie. Made with the finest local honey, this dessert is the perfect sweet ending to a meal. It’s rich yet not overly sweet, with a satisfying balance that leaves you wanting just one more bite. Another popular choice is the yogurt with honey and walnuts, a simple yet decadent dessert that showcases the island's commitment to using the best ingredients.
The restaurant’s location in Episkopi, Greece, offers guests a tranquil environment to enjoy their meals. Whether you're dining indoors, where the rustic décor creates a cozy atmosphere, or al fresco under the warm Mediterranean sky, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Crete. The peaceful surroundings add to the overall charm of the place, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal with family, friends, or a special someone.
Reviews of Cretan Cuisine Murelo are consistently positive, with guests praising both the quality of the food and the exceptional service. Many visitors note the welcoming atmosphere and the staff's commitment to ensuring a memorable dining experience. It’s clear that the team at Murelo takes great pride in offering not just a meal, but a piece of Cretan culture. Whether you're a food enthusiast or someone seeking to immerse yourself in local traditions, Cretan Cuisine Murelo delivers on every level.
In terms of price, Cretan Cuisine Murelo offers good value for the quality of food and service. While it’s a bit higher than some casual dining options, the experience and the quality of the meals make it well worth the price. Dining here is not just about eating; it's about enjoying a meal that’s been thoughtfully crafted and expertly prepared.
For those looking to explore more of what Crete has to offer in terms of food and culture, Cretan Cuisine Murelo is the perfect starting point. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, offering a dining experience that’s both authentic and refreshing. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch or celebrating a special occasion, Murelo ensures that every guest leaves satisfied and eager to return.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fireplace ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Late-night food ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Lunch reservations recommended ✓ Reservations required ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile paymentsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed ✓ Dogs allowed inside ✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
We came here 4 years ago just after lockdown. We found it by accident when in a little trek through the hills on a quad and it was amazing then and it’s amazing still. We ordered the Greek salad and tzaziki and then a mixed grill 2 and wow wow. Such amazing food, fantastic hosts. Take that trip out to the hills Episkopi
Delicious food with great ambience and very friendly service. Everything we had was great, especially the goat, biftekia, dakos and the pork knuckle (kotsi). Everything topped off with a great free dessert and raki.
Great service and delicious food. The grape leaves were *chefs kiss and orange cake was the perfect sweet treat.
Incredible food and service! the cheeses . We especially loved the warmth of the family who runs the restaurant - they were all very sweet and talented in the kitchen! complimentary homemade dessert and digestif drinks (wine and liquor) at the end were so special.
This was the BEST food I tried during my two weeks on Crete! They use local ingredients from their village and prepare their food with passion. You can taste the love in their food. The staff were kind and accommodating - we had a large group. If you want true, mouth watering Cretan cuisine come to Murelo
We just found this place as we were staying nearby and shared a mixed grill for two people. It was very welcoming and had a high chair for our baby. The food was very tasty and plenty we both left feeling full and happy, they also gave us pudding to take with us which we later had which was also very tasty.
The restaurant is great. The service is friendlier than usual. The food awesome especially the "kotsi" (the meat was soft like butter!!!) and the chicken with cheese (sorry no photo for that). Finally served Raki + orange pie with tons! of ice cream. God sent! To be honest 4.5 stars for food because 1) a little bit unsalted (salad+zucchini balls) to my preference . Although you can add later. 2) The boiled weed salad and the ravioli portions were a little bit small (as seen in the photo). In general a great choice to lunch near Herakleion.