Iordanis’ bougatsa in Hania, a century-old tradition

For over a century, Iordanis has made one of the most famous and distinctive Greek custard pies, with crunchy, handmade phyllo dough, mizithra cheese, and a sprinkle of crystal sugar.

The first thing most visitors do upon arriving in Hania, Crete, is head to Iordanis. While bougatsa can be enjoyed at any time of day, it's especially delightful at dawn, when the ferry from Piraeus docks. Fresh from the oven and served with a glass of cool water, it's the hearty breakfast you need to kickstart your day or summer vacation.

Distinguished by its century-long tradition, this bougatsa is made with handmade, crispy phyllo dough, a rich and creamy, slightly tangy sheep's mizithra cheese filling, and the perfect finishing touch: crystal sugar, which adds a delightful crunch to each sweet and savory bite.Iordanis Akasiadis, the fourth-generation owner, tells the story of this...