Arismari & Varsamo

Discover a highly-rated Greek restaurant in Crete. Experience authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Sample delicious dishes with a 4.6/5 rating.

Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill$$4.6(1,329)Crete
Explore Crete

About Arismari & Varsamo

Nestled in the historic heart of Crete, this charming eatery offers a memorable dining experience. Diners frequently commend its inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both intimate meals and gatherings. With an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars, it's clear that many appreciate the quality and authenticity of the Greek cuisine served here. The menu features traditional dishes, prepared with care and presented with a touch of local flair. This establishment provides a delightful setting to savor the flavors of the island, complemented by a good selection of cocktails and the option for outdoor seating.

📊

Restaurant Analysis

Restaurant Characteristics

Formula-Based Analysis

This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.

💰Price Range
Moderate
🕐Meal Time
lunch
👥Group Size
Groups Welcome
🎭Atmosphere
Outdoor
🍽️Dining Style
Flexible
Features & Amenities
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
+5 more

Set your dining preferences to see how well this restaurant matches your taste.

Own or manage this restaurant?

Get 5-12× more clicks with prominent CTAs, a sticky button, and a TOP badge. Starting at just $4.99/month.

Hero CTASticky ButtonTOP Badge

Ready to Book Top Tours in Crete?

Browse 6 curated tour categories with instant booking & best price guarantee.

Why Travelers Love Arismari &

Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.

4.6 / 5.0(1,329 reviews)

I really do not get the reviews. This has been hands-down, by far, the worst experience in Crete. Let's start with the food as this can compensate anything if it's delicious but sadly not the case. We had: Steamed mussels - ok; cannot really screw up this dish Sfakiani pita - completely burnt and extremely little cheese, just a drop in the middle of it. Skioufichta traditional pasta - they came absolutely soaked in water; almost a soup; when we pointed it out at the end, the waiter tried to tell us that this is how the pasta is served...way to go adding insult to injury Lamb ofto - decent but the chef got too excited with the salt; this is usually done to mask old meat but I guess I will find out in a day or two if that was the case. The location is poor. The street where the tables are is not flat so you will be sitting at an angle and everything on your table will as well. The way you order is by filling in the boxes of the foods you want on a printed menu sheet for your table, very weird. There are many more aspects that seemed off about this location but don't want to write a novel just trust me...avoid it at all costs. We had our first night dinner in Heraklion here. The food was delicious, with nice breeze from the sea. Love the grilled mushrooms, prawns and the mixed grilled meat. Would highly recommend. We had an absolutely wonderful experience at your restaurant! The food was incredible - generous portions and bursting with authentic Cretan flavors that left us wanting more. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel at home. A special thank you for the complimentary dessert and raki - it was the perfect ending to an amazing meal! We'll definitely be back and can't wait to try more of your delicious dishes. Keep up the fantastic work!👌

Find the Restaurant

Where to Find Them

Λυσιμάχου Καλοκαιρινού 10, Plateia Istorikoy Mousseiou, Iraklion, Crete 712 02, Greece

View on Google Maps

Opening Hours

Open Now
MondayClosed
Tuesday12:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday12:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday12:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Sunday12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Recent Reviews

Ovidiu P.

October 23, 2025

I really do not get the reviews. This has been hands-down, by far, the worst experience in Crete. Let's start with the food as this can compensate anything if it's delicious but sadly not the case. We had: Steamed mussels - ok; cannot really screw up this dish Sfakiani pita - completely burnt and extremely little cheese, just a drop in the middle of it. Skioufichta traditional pasta - they came absolutely soaked in water; almost a soup; when we pointed it out at the end, the waiter tried to tell us that this is how the pasta is served...way to go adding insult to injury Lamb ofto - decent but the chef got too excited with the salt; this is usually done to mask old meat but I guess I will find out in a day or two if that was the case. The location is poor. The street where the tables are is not flat so you will be sitting at an angle and everything on your table will as well. The way you order is by filling in the boxes of the foods you want on a printed menu sheet for your table, very weird. There are many more aspects that seemed off about this location but don't want to write a novel just trust me...avoid it at all costs.

Heidi L.

June 21, 2025

We had our first night dinner in Heraklion here. The food was delicious, with nice breeze from the sea. Love the grilled mushrooms, prawns and the mixed grilled meat. Would highly recommend.

Jakub P.

October 21, 2025

We had an absolutely wonderful experience at your restaurant! The food was incredible - generous portions and bursting with authentic Cretan flavors that left us wanting more. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel at home. A special thank you for the complimentary dessert and raki - it was the perfect ending to an amazing meal! We'll definitely be back and can't wait to try more of your delicious dishes. Keep up the fantastic work!👌

Hans R.

August 9, 2025

One of the best places to eat when in Heraklion! Excellent food, good service and great location

Harry A.

December 15, 2024

Arismari is one the top places try traditional cretan food in Heraklion. Food like Antikristo, kreatotourta, gamopilafi (rice) should be not missed. As for drinks, select rakomelo and raki. Prices are very competitive too.

What to Expect

Features and amenities that make Arismari & special

Outdoor Seating

Cocktails

Beer

Wine

Coffee

Family Friendly

Dog Friendly

Groups Welcome

Reservations

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before you visit

Payment Options

Credit Cards
Debit Cards
NFC/Contactless

Parking

Free Parking Lot
Free Street Parking

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Make It a Full-Day Experience in Crete

Pair your reservation at Arismari & with unforgettable tours in Crete. From sunset sails to culinary adventures, our AI curates the best ways to explore the island like a local.

Other Popular Restaurants in Crete

Build your own culinary trail—save these spots for future nights out in Crete.

Mediterranean

Bellot

Experience exceptional Greek cuisine in Iraklio, Crete. This highly-rated (4.9/5) restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and delicious dishes. Book your table today!

4.9$$Mediterranean · Seafood
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Neratzoula

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated ($$) taverna in Crete. Enjoy delicious, home-style cooking with a 4.9-star rating. Book your table today.

4.9$$Mediterranean · European
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Aloni - Traditional Cretan Restaurant

Savor authentic Cretan flavors at this charming restaurant, boasting a 4.9/5 rating. Experience warm hospitality and traditional dishes in a beautiful village setting. Book your table.

4.9$$Mediterranean · European
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Sir Papafigos

Experience exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere at this highly-rated Crete restaurant. With a 4.9/5 rating, enjoy delicious food and friendly staff. Book your table!

4.9$$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Taverna Giannousakis

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated ($) taverna. With a 4.9/5 rating, enjoy delicious food, fair prices, and a warm welcome. Discover your new favorite spot.

4.9$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

the Dolphin

Discover a highly-rated (4.9/5) Greek taverna in Crete. Experience authentic, fresh flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. Reservable, outdoor seating.

4.9$$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Peskesi

Discover Crete's authentic flavors at this highly-rated Greek restaurant (4.8/5). Experience traditional dishes and a unique atmosphere. Book your table!

4.8$$Mediterranean · European
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Merastri

Experience authentic Cretan dining in Iraklio with a 4.8-star rating. Savor delicious Greek cuisine and warm hospitality. Visit Merastri for a memorable meal.

4.8$$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Seafood

Mythos Restaurant

Experience exceptional Greek cuisine at Mythos Restaurant in Crete. With a 4.8-star rating, enjoy fresh, delicious food in a warm, seaside atmosphere.

4.8$$Seafood · Mediterranean
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Poliou House / Το σπίτι του Πολιού

Experience exceptional Greek cuisine in Crete at Poliou House, boasting a 4.8-star rating. Enjoy a beautiful atmosphere, traditional music, and delicious food. Reservations recommended.

4.8$$Mediterranean · European
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Lola

Experience exceptional modern Greek cuisine in Crete, with a 4.8/5 rating. Enjoy a warm atmosphere, delicious dishes, and attentive service. Reservations recommended.

4.8$$Mediterranean · Italian
View Restaurant
Seafood

Hiona Taverna

Experience authentic Cretan dining at a highly-rated beachfront taverna (4.7/5). Enjoy fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

4.7$$Seafood · Mediterranean
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food

Discover authentic Cretan cuisine with a 4.7-star rating. Experience artistic Greek dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your table.

4.7$$Mediterranean · Fusion
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Taverna Spilios

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated taverna (4.7 stars) in Crete. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes in a charming atmosphere. Book your table.

4.7$$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Apiri greek_eatery

Experience authentic Greek cuisine in Crete at this 4.7-star rated eatery. Discover delicious Mediterranean dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your table today.

4.7$$Mediterranean · Steakhouse & Grill
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

Mambo Beach Restaurant

Discover a highly-rated (4.7/5) beachfront gem in Crete. Enjoy delicious food, cocktails, and attentive service. Perfect for a memorable meal.

4.7$$Mediterranean · Italian
View Restaurant
Mediterranean

TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated Chania restaurant (4.5/5). Enjoy fresh flavors, friendly service, and a charming atmosphere.

4.5$$Mediterranean · European
View Restaurant

View All Restaurants in Crete

Explore every curated dining spot we recommend across the island.

Browse the list

Ready to Explore Crete?

Discover the best tours, activities, and restaurant picks with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.

Plan Your Crete Trip

From transportation to stays, we help you build a complete itinerary around this must-visit restaurant in Crete.

Transportation Tips

Rental cars for island exploration, buses for main routes, and ferries for coastal access. Walking is perfect for exploring cities and villages.

Car Rental Deals in Crete

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Crete adventure. From luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hideaways, we highlight the best basecamps for food lovers.

Best Hotel Deals in Crete

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.