Apokoronou 24, Chania 731 35, Greece. Phone: +30 2821 0088855

Worth visiting in a 6-mile radius.

Bougatsa Iordanis is a hidden gem, blending into the bustling main streets of downtown Chania with its plain facade. This hole-in-the-wall bougatsa cafe certainly does not cater to tourists, with its 20 or so seats filled with elderly locals getting their morning pastry and coffee. This is a wonderful little joint that anyone in Chania should visit.

Bougatsa is a traditional Greek breakfast item made with phyllo pastry, powdered sugar, and soft cheese. Bougatsa Iordanis has been serving bougatsa, and only bougatsa, since 1924, and is a cornerstone of Chanian culture. As you walk into the cafe there are two workers in the front corner, one keeping the enormous chunks of bougatsa warm on a piece of hot metal, and one at the cash register. Bougatsa is ordered at 3 euros per generous portion—a very good deal.

The bougatsa is very satisfying, stuffed full of rich, fatty cheese that is just a tad sour. The phyllo pastry is buttery and flaky, and falls apart very easily. The sprinkling of powdered sugar on top adds just a bit of sweetness.

Perfect for a quick stop to fill up on delicious pastry and a great way to start your morning, I highly recommend Bougatsa Iordanis.