Scooters, Monks & Stew

Sadly, my camera died yesterday and I did not have time to get an adaptor until late evening, so no food pics (sad face). We spent the day wondering through two ancient monasteries, hiking down the Rocky Mountains to the caves that the monks once inhabited. They now brew their own wine and extra virgin olive oil to raise money for the community. I bought a bottle of Cabernet which I drank that evening on my balcony. 

We went for a late dinner (like 11pm, when in Greece eat like the Greeks) at a Taverna called Semiramis in a hidden alley. The food was so authentic and there was the most romantic live music being sung by three old Greek men. Of course we were greeted with the usual fresh bread and bowl of local olives. I was feeling some comfort food so ordered a bowl of vegetable stew. I know you are thinking, stew? Really dom? But yes, the stew was divine! It was filled with local produce: courgettes, aubergine and carrots. I slopped that plate up with a warm piece of homemade bread. Once again, the Cretens never disappoint with their FREE dessert and Raki. We were served four deep fried donuts rolled in honey and cinnamon with ice cream in the middle. 

Definitely went to bed happy. I can't believe the only picture I have to share with you is the first steps of our pilgrimage down to the caves...

Xo domappetit 

PS. I forgot to mention that we rented a scooter for the day and rolled down to this gorgeous beach where we ate out on their patio. Cheese pies, salad with fresh onions and Greek style mashed potatoes with two Mythos. Mmmmm...

    The start to our sweaty pilgrimage 

    The view from our balcony... Tres romantique! 

    The cutest little blue chairs ever. I just had to share! 

Chestnuts, Olives & Pannacotta

The sun is now setting here in Chania (pronounced Ha-Nia), Crete,  and I am laying here on one of the local beaches debating on where to head for dinner. Our three week Greek & Turkish adventure began yesterday in Athens, which feels like ages ago with my jet lag still unsettled. We managed to visit the magnificent & ancient agora gardens, climb the Acropolis, and stuff 2 (yes, 2!) pork gyros stuffed with French fries down into our bellies. Hands down best darn gyros we've ever had. The Greek Gods must have something to do with that tzaziki sauce. 

Ok, it's time to share today's culinary deets with you. Upon arriving to the vast and plush island of Crete, more specifically the Venetian Harbour style Chania, where we will be nesting for the next three days, we were greeted by our lovely host with Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice. I cannot emphasize how good that juice tasted in that moment. With our bellies rumbling for lunch we took to the cobble stoned streets to check out a local resto known for their modern atmosphere and traditional Greek eats. Since my Greek is a bit rusty, we passed by it about 3 times before asking a local for assistance. 

Walking into this haven we were immediately at ease and feeling the warmth. The hipster looking young chef came up to the front and didn't waste any time showing us the day's specials by opening each cooking pot and allowing us to really sense & smell each dish. Overwhelmed by all the choices, we asked for his suggestions and he put together a simple but fine feast for us. Firstly, we received a basket full of freshly baked bread (warm moist centre & crusty exterior), the greenest olive oiI have ever seen, and a bowl of marinated olives. He then brought us our main dishes. Justin gobbled down BBQ chicken thighs with rice & potatoes with a side of moussaka. As for myself, I had a plate of the most beautiful hand stuff zucchini flowers with rice and dill, and a plate of slow roasted chestnuts & mushrooms with baby onions. It was so mouth watering good that I had to soak up the leftover sauce with a second basket of bread. Finally, we asked for the bill and were surprised with a small craft of Raki (a Cretian liquor) and a ridiculously delicious Pannacotta. I can definitely get used to this people. Chat soon....more to come. 

Xo domappetit!

PS. We ended up eating along the harbour with a spectacular view of the lighthouse. I had a more than generous portion of fresh grilled calamari with Greek salad. Loving Chania. 

    Fresh Orange Juice outside out studio

    Stuffed zucchini blossoms w rice & dill

    Pannacotta 

    Where we had this spectacular lunch 

    My seaside fresh grilled calamari. Big enough for 2 people! 

    Stuck this one in for fun! Haha jealous?