Malia: Food and wine pairing at Avli restaurant

If you’re craving a taste of Greece’s vibrant culinary scene combined with expert wines, the Food and Wine Pairing experience at Avli Malia is worth considering. This two-hour journey promises five carefully curated courses, each designed to balance traditional Greek and Cretan flavors with local wines. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the emphasis on high-quality service, expert guidance, and an intimate setting that makes every sip and bite feel special.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention from a certified sommelier, the chance to sample wines from both Crete and other Greek vineyards, and the thoughtfully paired dishes that highlight modern Greek cuisine. One aspect to consider is that the experience isn’t suitable for guests with certain dietary restrictions or mobility issues, but for those who love pairing food with wine in a relaxed, elegant setting, it offers excellent value at $77 per person.

This tour is best suited for foodies eager to deepen their understanding of Greek wines, couples celebrating a special occasion, or travelers who simply want a memorable evening of authentic flavors paired with expert insights. If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive culinary outing in Malia, this experience fits the bill.

Good To Know

• Expert Guidance: Led by a certified sommelier, ensuring a knowledgeable and engaging experience.
• Authentic Pairings: Five courses paired with wines from Crete and Greece, showcasing the contemporary wine scene.
• High-Quality Service: Priority reservations and seated dining in a cozy restaurant area.
• Balanced Experience: A mix of traditional and modern Greek flavors, enhanced by well-chosen wines.
• Value for Money: At $77, it offers a comprehensive tasting with five courses and expert insights.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, minors, or guests with certain dietary or mobility restrictions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Location and Atmosphere

The tour begins at Agiou Ioannou 2, Malia old town entrance, close to St Nektarios church. The setting is intimate and welcoming, with a focus on comfort and good service. The restaurant area offers a relaxed environment perfect for savoring each course without feeling rushed. During reviews, visitors appreciated the attentive staff and the cozy ambiance, which complements the tasting journey.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience unfolds over approximately two hours, giving enough time to savor each course without feeling hurried. The tasting menu includes five courses:

• Welcome (Amuse Bouche): Your evening kicks off with a small appetizer, paired with a 75ml glass of wine. Reviewers note that this initial pairing sets a pleasant tone and whets the appetite for what’s to come.
• Salad Course: A fresh, vibrant salad paired with a wine from the collection. Expect flavors that highlight the freshness of local vegetables and herbs, with wines chosen to enhance subtle acidity.
• Starter: A thoughtfully prepared dish that introduces more complex flavors, harmonized with another 75ml glass of wine. Guests appreciate how each bite and sip complement each other.
• Main Course: The centerpiece of the meal, perhaps featuring traditional Greek ingredients or modern twists. The wine pairing here is often highlighted as a perfect match, elevating the dish.
• Dessert: Concluding with a sweet note, paired with a 40ml glass of dessert wine, which guests say perfectly balances sweetness and acidity, rounding off the experience.

The Role of the Sommelier

What elevates this experience is the guidance of a certified sommelier. This expert not only introduces each wine but also shares insights about Greek wine regions, varieties, and what makes each pairing special. Reviewers have praised the sommelier’s knowledge, describing them as engaging and approachable. Many mention that this guidance turned the evening into a genuine educational experience, helping them understand the nuances of Greek wines beyond just tasting.

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Wine Selection and Pairings

Wines are carefully selected from both Crete and the broader Greek wine scene, emphasizing contemporary styles. Guests can expect to sample different wine types, possibly including local varieties like Assyrtiko or other popular Greek grapes. The focus on 75ml servings allows for multiple tastings without feeling overwhelmed, giving a sense of progression through the evening.

Service and Reservation Details

The service is highly rated, with many reviewers noting the professional yet friendly staff. With priority reservation access, guests can skip the lines, which is especially helpful in peak seasons. The seating is reserved in a dedicated restaurant area, making for an undisturbed tasting experience.

Value Assessment

At $77 per person, the experience offers a lot of value. You’re getting five courses of thoughtfully prepared food, five expertly paired wines, and the insights of a professional sommelier—all within a comfortable two-hour window. When compared to similar tasting experiences, this represents an affordable way to deepen your appreciation for Greek cuisine and wines without breaking the bank.

Accessibility and Practicalities

It’s important to note that this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, minors, or guests with certain dietary restrictions or mobility issues. The table is available for 2 hours, and a 15-minute grace period applies if you’re running late. Transportation isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. The venue doesn’t accommodate non-folding or electric wheelchairs, or unaccompanied minors, which is worth considering for some travelers.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culinary enthusiasts interested in Greek wines, couples celebrating a romantic night, or travelers seeking an authentic, intimate dining experience. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided tastings and want to learn about Greece’s vibrant wine scene in a relaxed setting. However, it’s best to skip this if you have dietary restrictions or mobility challenges that can’t be accommodated.

The Sum Up

The food and wine pairing at Avli Malia offers a genuine taste of Greece’s contemporary culinary culture, blending local produce with expert wine selections. It’s a well-organized, intimate experience that provides both education and enjoyment, all within a reasonable price point. Whether you’re a wine lover, a food enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable evening in Malia, this experience is a great way to deepen your appreciation for Greek flavors.

For travelers who value guided tastings, high-quality service, and authentic cuisine, this tour delivers a satisfying and flavorful journey. Just remember to consider your dietary needs and mobility before booking — this is a refined experience, not a casual snack stop.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this experience?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to find your way to the meeting point at Agiou Ioannou 2, Malia old town entrance.

Can I join if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
This experience is not suitable for guests with food allergies, lactose intolerance, or nut allergies. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific restrictions.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, offering enough time to enjoy each course and learn from the sommelier without feeling rushed.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but smart casual is generally appropriate for a relaxed, intimate dining experience.

Are kids or minors allowed?
No, this experience isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors or guests under 17.

What kind of wines are served?
Wines from the Greek and Cretan vineyards, emphasizing contemporary styles, are served. Expect to taste different varieties, including possibly local favorites like Assyrtiko.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women?
No, due to the alcohol content in the wines, this experience isn’t recommended for pregnant women.

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of expertly guided tastings, a cozy setting, and authentic Greek wines and flavors makes it a memorable culinary outing perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of Greece’s wine scene.

This two-hour tasting adventure at Avli Malia does more than just serve food and wine; it offers insight into Greek culture, a chance to enjoy expertly paired dishes, and a relaxed environment to absorb it all. Whether you’re a gastronome or a casual wine enthusiast, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Crete itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: