Modern Monastic Cretan Gastronomy
Inspired by monastic simplicity and the Blue Zone wisdom of Crete, Ethimo offers refined nourishment — light, seasonal and deeply grounded in place.
This is dining that restores as much as it delights.
Every plate is designed for balance — not heaviness.
Crete’s Only Pescetarian Longevity-Focused Restaurant in Ammoudara, Heraklion
CULINARY CURATION
Rooted in Cretan heritage • Guided by monastic simplicity • Designed for balance and longevity.
The modern monastic concept has been a meaningful challenge for me. With respect for Cretan tradition and monastic simplicity, I redefine simplicity through a contemporary culinary expression, highlighting the purity of the ingredients and the balance of flavors.
open hours time
Time slows down. Flavors speak. And something ancient feels familiar again.
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday : 14.00 – 23.00
Saturday: 14.00 – 23.00
Sunday: 14.00 – 23.00
Holidays: Open
Events coming soon…
“ On holidays is a special day, we will open and with special offer, we will announce ”
We look forward to welcoming you back — our opening date will be announced soon.
Gather Around the Cretan Table
At Ethimo, every gathering follows the same principle that shapes our kitchen: balance, restraint and conscious hospitality.
Rooted in our philosophy of monastic simplicity and Cretan longevity, each private dinner becomes a shared ritual rather than a formal event.
You can read more about our philosophy here.
Whether it is an intimate celebration or a curated business evening, we host with intention: seasonal dishes at the centre, wine poured slowly, conversations unfolding naturally within the refined setting of Alsus Boutique Hotel – Adults Only in Ammoudara, Heraklion.
ETHIMO CRETAN GASTRONOMY
For centuries, monks have followed a simple rhythm: vegetables, wild greens, legumes, olive oil, and fish on Sundays and feast days. Meat is absent. This way of eating is not about restriction, but purification, supporting spiritual focus, balance, and long life.
Fish holds deeper meaning through the early Christian symbol ΙΧΘΥΣ (Ichthys), meaning “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior,” representing faith, humility, and awareness.
At Ethimo, this philosophy becomes a menu centered on plants, fresh fish, and simplicity, designed to nourish the body, clear the mind, and support longevity through conscious Cretan living.
It is a choice rooted in balance, clarity and longevity.
Crete carries a culture of seasonality, olive oil, wild greens, fresh fish and shared tables.
Inspired by monastic simplicity, we follow a plant forward philosophy with fish at its heart and no meat on the menu.
Sushi & Wine Bar
Beyond dining, the space comes alive with weekly events, signature cocktails, premium spirits and shisha, creating a vibrant social rhythm from sunset until late.
Whether seeking simplicity or fusion flavors, quiet dinners or lively nights, Alsus offers a complete destination with choices for every preference.
Definitely worth giving this place a try!
Beatrice Cucã
Overall, truly exceptional.
Steffi Hamacher
Good restaurant, delicious food, classy atmosphere
Els Kushner
Merci ♥️ nous revenons samedi 6/09. Un grand Bravo.
Ivan Sumeire
booking a table
You will receive confirmation by phone or email within 24h.
For same-day reservations, please call us directly.
how to find us
Ethimo Cretan Gastronomy Restaurant, 50 Andrea Papandreou, Ammoudara, Heraklion 71414, Crete Greece
[email protected]
opening hour:
Mon – Sun: 14.00 – 23.00, Holidays : Open
Contact us:
Ethimo
Some for the seafood.
Some for sushi and cocktails by the pool.
Some for our curated events and summer nights.
Everyone stays for the atmosphere.
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