Heraklion, Galatas village: Cretan Cured meat tasting & BBQ

Key Points

• Authentic Tasting Experience: Indulge in handmade Cretan cured meats and iconic local dishes served directly from a wood-fired oven.
• Expert Guide: Led by Manolis Kassakis, a 4th-generation charcutier who shares insights into traditional curing techniques and local history.
• Unique Setting: Dine in the courtyard of a family-run charcuterie in Galatas village, offering a serene and intimate atmosphere.
• Includes Local Food & Wine: The menu features famous Cretan cured meats, stuffed zucchini flowers, feta, and a glass of Cretan wine.
• Duration & Price: The experience lasts about 1.5 hours at a cost of $79 per person, with limited spots for a small group.
• Seasonal & Fresh: The menu incorporates seasonal vegetables and farm-fresh fruits, with some variations possible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Cretan Cured Meat Tasting & BBQ in Galatas Village

The Cretan Cured Meat Tasting & BBQ takes place at the Kassaki Cold Cuts facility in Galatas village, just outside Heraklion. For $79 per person, visitors enjoy a 1.5-hour journey into Crete’s culinary traditions, guided by Manolis Kassakis, a seasoned charcutier with four generations of family experience. The tour is perfect for food lovers eager to learn about local specialties in an intimate setting, although it’s not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those with insect allergies.

How the Tour Begins: Meeting in Galatas Village

The experience starts at the Kassaki Cold Cuts facility, marked clearly with a sign in Galatas village. Visitors gather for a warm welcome and a quick introduction before heading to the surrounding farm and production area. This initial walk offers a glimpse into sustainable practices and the history of Galatas, which dates back to Minoan times.

Exploring the Production Facility and Farm Surroundings

Manolis Kassakis leads guests through the production surroundings, explaining how traditional methods are maintained today. He highlights the importance of sustainability in their practices and shares stories about the family’s long history in producing Cretan cured meats and sausages. The tour provides a rare chance to see authentic meat curing techniques as they are still practiced locally, connecting past and present.

Dining in the Courtyard of the Charcuterie

After the farm tour, visitors settle into a courtyard dining area within the charcuterie. The setting is peaceful, with a rustic charm that complements the authentic food. The menu features a variety of Cretan cured meats, such as kapriko, apaki, sausage with vinegar, and sygklino. These are served alongside seasonal salads and traditional bread with olive oil, creating a genuine local flavor.

More Great Tours Nearby

Watching the Chef Prepare the Dishes

A highlight of the experience is watching Manolis prepare the dishes before your eyes. He demonstrates traditional curing and preservation techniques, sharing insights into their historical significance and how they are integral to the Cretan diet. The wood-fired oven produces dishes like kapriko with potatoes and oven-baked feta with tomato and oregano, adding smoky flavor to the meal.

Tasting the Signature Cretan Deli Meats and Iconic Dishes

The menu includes fava beans with apaki, stuffed zucchini flowers, and sweet or fresh fruits from the farm. The Cretan cured meats are the star, offering a chance to savor deliciously seasoned and handmade products. Each dish pairs well with a glass of local Cretan wine, enhancing the authentic experience. Some menu items, like the sausage with vinegar, are a perfect example of traditional preservation methods.

Learning About the Benefits of the Cretan Diet

Throughout the meal, Manolis shares how traditional Cretan curing techniques contribute to the world-famous Cretan diet. He explains how these preserved meats fit into a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing the benefits of local ingredients and seasonal produce. The tour offers not only a culinary taste but also an educational perspective on Cretan culinary health benefits.

Taking Home Cured Meats as Souvenirs

Before departing, visitors have the chance to purchase the cured meats they tasted. These products make delicious souvenirs and allow guests to enjoy authentic Cretan flavors back home. The quality and craftsmanship of the meats reflect generations of family tradition.

Logistics and Group Size

This small group experience is limited to 10 participants, fostering a personal and relaxed atmosphere. The activity is designed to be flexible, with reservations available to book now and pay later. It begins and ends at the Kassaki Cold Cuts facility, with no included transportation, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Considerations and Suitability

While the tour offers a rich culinary experience, it is not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those with insect allergies. It’s best suited for those interested in authentic food traditions and able to walk around the farm and production area. The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it an ideal addition to a day of exploring Heraklion or nearby villages.

Final Thoughts on the Cretan Meat Tasting & BBQ

The Cretan Cured Meat Tasting & BBQ provides an engaging look into Crete’s culinary heritage through the eyes of a passionate family producer. The authentic atmosphere, combined with delicious food and local wine, makes it a memorable experience for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of Cretan gastronomy. The small group setting ensures personalized attention and an opportunity to ask questions about the meat curing process and local traditions.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of Crete’s entire cuisine, it offers quality, authenticity, and a chance to taste real, handmade cured meats directly from the farm. Perfect for foodies, history lovers, or anyone looking for a relaxed, intimate meal with a local expert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, the tour starts and ends at the Kassaki Cold Cuts facility, and transportation is not included.

Can I buy the cured meats I taste during the tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase cured meats to take home as souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
No, it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, as it focuses on meats and cured products.

How long does the experience last?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but the tour’s focus on meat tasting and production suggests it is best suited for adults or older children.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby