Related guide: Best Taverns in Chania
Why Taverna Prices Feel Unclear to Visitors
Many visitors find taverna pricing confusing because meals are shared, menus change daily, and some items appear automatically on the table. Unlike restaurants with fixed per-person pricing, tavernas operate on a more flexible model.
Understanding typical price ranges removes uncertainty and helps you order with confidence.
Typical Starter Prices
Starters in Chania tavernas are usually affordable and designed for sharing.
- Salads (dakos, Greek salad): €6–9
- Fried vegetables (zucchini, eggplant): €5–7
- Saganaki (fried cheese): €6–8
Main Dishes and Oven Meals
Main dishes depend on preparation and ingredients. Slow-cooked meals are often slightly higher priced due to longer preparation.
- Grilled pork or chicken: €9–13
- Lamb or goat (oven or grilled): €12–18
- Stuffed vegetables or stews: €8–12
Seafood Prices
Seafood prices vary the most. Some fish is priced per kilo rather than per portion.
- Small local fish (fried or grilled): €10–14
- Grilled fish (by weight): €50–80 per kilo
Always ask how the fish is priced before ordering.
Sharing vs Ordering Per Person
Sharing dishes usually lowers the total cost. A typical table of two ordering several shared dishes often pays less than two separate restaurant mains.
For two people, a full taverna meal commonly ranges between €30 and €45, depending on drinks and seafood choices.
Common Extras on the Bill
Some items arrive without being ordered. These are standard practice, not hidden fees.
- Bread: €1–2 per person
- Bottled water: €1–2
- Occasional small appetizers
If you do not want these items, it is acceptable to say so at the start.
Dessert and Raki
In many tavernas, dessert and raki are offered at the end of the meal as a gesture of hospitality. These are often free, but not guaranteed.
How to Control the Final Bill
- Ask whether dishes are meant for sharing
- Clarify seafood pricing in advance
- Order gradually rather than all at once
With a basic understanding of pricing, eating at a taverna in Chania becomes relaxed and predictable.
