Newsflash from Monday, 29 December 2025:
Rethymno has just gained a brand-new meeting point for animal lovers—and it’s already stealing hearts. Tucked away at the junction of Konstantinoupoleos and Markou Portaliou streets in the Kallithea area, Buddies is the first truly pet-friendly café in Rethymno, and possibly in all of Crete.
A Café Where Pets Are Guests, Not Outsiders
At Buddies, four-legged friends are not tied up outside or tolerated as an exception—they are welcomed as guests. The idea belongs to Manos Kalligiannis, a 33-year-old local who wanted to create a café where he could enjoy his coffee without worrying about whether his dog would be unwelcome.
Living in a neighborhood full of people walking their pets daily, Manos turned a personal need into a concept that resonated deeply with the local community. The result is a space designed for coexistence, comfort, and genuine love for animals.
From Puppychino to Pet Treats
Buddies is far from an ordinary café. Alongside the usual coffee, juices, beers, and drinks for humans, the menu includes special treats for dogs and cats, available to enjoy on-site or to take home.
The standout feature? The much-talked-about “puppychino”—a dog-friendly drink made with oats, cinnamon, peanut butter, and banana. It’s safe, nutritious, and clearly a favorite among canine visitors.
Water bowls are always full, and the café also offers chew toys, pet accessories, and practical items like waste-bag holders for walks around town.
A Cozy Spot for Humans Too
While pets enjoy their own treats, owners can relax with traditional pies, handmade snack bars, and a warm, laid-back atmosphere. Buddies even features a small comic book library, with classics like Lucky Luke, Asterix, Mickey Mouse, and vintage Marvel editions—perfect for a relaxed coffee break.
Meet the Mascot: Beer(a)
At the heart of Buddies is Beer(a), Manos’ 2.5-year-old dog and the café’s unofficial hostess. Always present and always friendly, she has become a big part of the café’s identity. Many visitors admit they stop by not only for coffee, but also to play with her.
More Than a Café: A Community Hub
Open for just a few months, Buddies has already attracted animal lovers, local residents, and animal welfare groups. Manos actively encourages the café to be used for pet-related events, meetups, and adoption initiatives, aiming to turn the space into a hub for animal-friendly action.
“I didn’t do this to follow a trend,” he says. “It started as a personal need—but it turns out many people share it.”
Why Pet-Friendly Cafés Matter
As pets become an increasingly important part of urban life, spaces like Buddies offer more than convenience. Studies show that interaction with animals reduces stress, boosts social connection, and builds a sense of community. Pet-friendly cafés send a powerful message of inclusion, responsibility, and respect toward animals.
A Small Place with a Big Message
Buddies is not just Rethymno’s first pet-friendly café—it’s a reminder that everyday life can be more compassionate and joyful when people and animals share space without barriers.
If you’re in Rethymno and love good coffee, good company, and wagging tails, Buddies might just become your new favorite spot. 🐾☕
