← Where to Eat in Rethymno (Food & Restaurants Hub)
The reality of vegetarian & vegan food in Rethymno
Rethymno is friendly to vegetarian eating thanks to Greek cuisine, but fully vegan dining requires a bit more awareness. Many traditional dishes are naturally plant-based, even if restaurants don’t label them as such.
Easy vegetarian options (no planning needed)
- Greek salads and village salads
- Fried zucchini, eggplant, peppers
- Cheese pies and vegetable pies
- Pasta and risotto dishes without meat
Reliable vegan-friendly Greek dishes
- Gigantes (baked giant beans)
- Fava (yellow split pea purée)
- Dolmadakia (vine leaves with rice)
- Stuffed vegetables (gemista) without meat
- Horta (boiled wild greens with olive oil)
Where vegetarian & vegan eating works best
Old Town side streets
More flexible kitchens and smaller menus make it easier to ask for adjustments or confirm ingredients.
Casual cafés & daytime spots
Good for salads, bowls, and lighter meals—especially earlier in the day.
Tourist-heavy menus
Paradoxically, these often lack real vegan options beyond salads. Always check carefully.
What to clarify before ordering
- Butter or cream in vegetable dishes
- Cheese added automatically to salads
- Meat stock used in soups or sauces
Timing matters
- Lunch: best variety and flexibility.
- Early dinner: easier communication with staff.
- Late evening: fewer vegan-safe choices.
Common mistakes
- Expecting dedicated vegan menus everywhere.
- Not confirming ingredients in “vegetable” dishes.
- Arriving late and relying on limited kitchen options.
How to make it easier
Stick to simple Greek dishes, ask directly about ingredients, and rotate between a few reliable places rather than searching from scratch every night.
Next steps
If you’re eating with non-vegetarians or need quick meals, the Old Town and street food guides can help balance choices.
