O Nikolas

On our recent trip to Agia Pelagia, Crete, we had the pleasure of dining at O Nikolas, a charming traditional taverna located on Eleutheriou Venizelou. This family-run restaurant quickly became one of our favorite spots, offering delicious food, warm hospitality, and an authentic Cretan dining experience.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with friendly smiles and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff at O Nikolas made us feel like part of their family, ensuring that we had everything we needed for a memorable meal. The restaurant’s location, overlooking the beautiful sea, provided a stunning backdrop for our dining experience.

We started our meal with a selection of appetizers that truly set the tone for the evening. The marinated anchovies were fresh and flavorful, while the grilled Greek cheese was perfectly complemented by tomatoes and balsamic. We also enjoyed a traditional Greek salad, which was crisp, refreshing, and generously portioned.

For our main courses, we decided to try a variety of dishes to fully experience the menu. The standout dish was undoubtedly the seafood platter for two, featuring an array of freshly caught fish, including a gigantic sea bream that was cooked to perfection. The fish was tender and seasoned beautifully, making each bite a delight.

I opted for the rabbit and lemon dish, which was incredibly tender and packed with flavor. The combination of succulent rabbit and tangy lemon created a mouthwatering dish that I couldn’t get enough of. My partner chose the tomahawk pork, which was impressively large and cooked to perfection. The meat was so tender it almost melted in the mouth, and the seasoning was spot on.

To finish off our meal, we were treated to complimentary desserts, including a delicious yogurt-honey dessert and a variety of fresh fruits. The homemade Raki, a traditional Cretan spirit, was a perfect end to our meal, adding a touch of local flavor to our dining experience.

The atmosphere at O Nikolas is cozy and inviting, with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. The restaurant is decorated in a traditional style, and the tables are arranged to offer great views of the sea. Despite being busy, the service was impeccable. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and more than willing to offer recommendations based on our preferences.

One of the most memorable aspects of our experience at O Nikolas was the genuine warmth and hospitality of the staff. Giannis, Eleani, Elpida, Vangelis, and Nikos all went out of their way to ensure we had a wonderful time. They took the time to chat with us, share stories about the local cuisine, and make us feel truly welcomed.

O Nikolas in Agia Pelagia is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment. The combination of delicious, freshly prepared food, exceptional service, and a beautiful seaside location makes it a standout dining destination. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer hearty meat dishes, there’s something for everyone at O Nikolas. We look forward to returning on our next visit to Crete and reliving this delightful dining experience.