The Alchemist
About This Spot
Stepping into The Alchemist feels like uncovering a beloved secret tucked away in the heart of Koutouloufari. The quiet charm of this village spot gently invites you in, setting a tone that is both relaxed and quietly refined. Whether you’re settling in for a leisurely meal or a rooftop cocktail under the fading light, the pace here feels unhurried, a welcome pause from the bustle beyond.
The welcome is warm and effortlessly genuine, with staff who seem to know the rhythm of the place—and their guests—intuitively. It’s that rare balance of approachable professionalism where interactions feel personal without ever being forced. There’s an understated ritual to the visit, from the friendly nods of recognition to the subtle but meaningful touches, like a small jug of raki arriving unexpectedly to complement the company.
Meals at The Alchemist unfold like a conversation between tradition and thoughtful creativity, featuring flavors that linger long after the last bite. The air often carries the aroma of wood smoke and herbs as dishes like tender lamb shank or perfectly seared steaks arrive just as you hoped: familiar yet distinguished. Sharing a plate of seafood fresh from the Mediterranean or savoring a cocktail crafted with playful flair on the rooftop terrace adds layers to the experience, each moment savored but never rushed.
There’s a quietly celebratory feel here—as if every gathering is a reason to slow down, connect, and appreciate the textures of place and palate. The genuine smiles from the team, the easy flow of good conversation, and the occasional surprise of a homemade orange cake or a thoughtfully paired drink leave a lasting impression that feels both timeless and refreshingly sincere.
What’s Available Here
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Outdoor seating
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Great beer selection
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Great cocktails
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Great coffee
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Great dessert
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Great wine list
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Rooftop seating
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Alcohol
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Beer
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Cocktails
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Coffee
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Late-night food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Spirits
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Wine
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Bar on site
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Toilet
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Wi-Fi
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Wi-Fi
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Casual
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Cosy
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Romantic
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Trendy
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Family friendly
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Groups
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LGBTQ+ friendly
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Tourists
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Transgender safe space
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Dinner reservations recommended
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM | |
| Wednesday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM | |
| Thursday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM | |
| Friday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM | |
| Saturday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM | |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | 06:00 PM - 01:00 AM |
Kaitlain Stridiron 15 Dec 2025
This was a recommendation from a woman in a previous restaurant the night before and since we went there twice within 2 weeks. Food was brilliant, the fillet steak was the best in town and I’m not a steak lover. Staff are amazing, very friendly, if you like raki (Greek drink) then you get a little jug of it everywhere you go. We got to speak to the chef who cooked the steaks and he was so friendly and wanted to take a shot with us. We spent 70€ but that’s drinks and 2 Courses each which is fair to be honest. Would highly recommend 5 stars
Steve m 11 Dec 2025
Located in the lovely village of koutaloufari, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit. We didn't eat, only had cocktails. The drinks were lovely with plenty to choose from. The staff were friendly and welcoming. There is a roof top terrace which was nice.
Gareth Hurst 27 Nov 2025
Visited here in May '24 for drinks and enjoyed it, so visited again for food last night (August '25). The stand out thing above anything else is the service - while relaxed and definitely not stuffy, it's also highly professional and courteous. What I really picked up on was when our waiter (who sounded just like Nico Rosberg! - it's uncanny) called our son by his name when bringing his drink, despite not asking for his name and just picking up on it from overhearing our table conversation. Just really nice and friendly interactions. Food was good, very traditional, so the Kleftiko for example might not look like a modern version, but it was very tasty. Really nice sauce in the meatballs too. I'd highly recommend. It might not be the absolute best food we've had (though still very good), but often it's the experience that makes it.
Hannah Taylor 24 Nov 2025
We choose to have dinner here on the last day of our holiday and it did not disappoint! The staff were friendly and the atmosphere felt authentic. We had a cocktail and then amazing food. I had the moussaka which was incredible. Then when we asked for the bill they brought over complimentary raki and orange cake for dessert which was delicious.
Amy Sim 10 Nov 2025
Turned up at The Alchemist with low expectations. Left as a card carrying member of the fan club. Totally get it, now. Charming staff, steak cooked exactly right, wine behaving itself, and an orange pie that was an absolute mic drop. Would return.
Caitlyn Ferris 23 Oct 2025
Had a fantastic meal here last week- staff were very attentive and very welcoming. One of our best meals in Koutouloufari & we will definitely be back!
Stephanie Fray 18 Oct 2025
food and vibes here are immaculate!! we love coming here when we come to crete. very generous waiters always supplying Raki and delicious orange cake dessert on the house. space itself is beautiful. food was excellent especially the grape leaves and the mousaka!! also the caesar salad was delicious!
Sonja Krijgsman 20 Sep 2025
What a great restaurant!! The qaiter was realy nice and funny!! We had the special, a dry-aged ribeyesteak with chimmichurri. It was simply perfect!! The boys had a tomahawk steak, also simply perfect!!