Zakynthos, the third largest Ionian island in Greece, is a gourmet's paradise. Its rich culinary traditions and abundant gastronomy make eating out in Zakynthos a treat. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes, this island offers many culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated culinary dining experience or an easy meal, you will find something for everyone in Zakynthos. In this article, we share our favorite hotspots on Zakynthos, including cozy tavernas and fine restaurants.
The cuisine of Zakynthos
Zakynthos' cuisine is a mix of different cultures, including Venetian, French and English cuisine. The island's traditional dishes are based on local ingredients and seasonal produce. That the olive is one of the most popular ingredients on the island should come as no surprise. In fact, you will see olive groves all over the island. The olive is of course used to make olive oil, and in addition you often get a bowl of olives on the table as a side dish. Other ingredients commonly used in Zakynthos cuisine are tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini, potatoes and onions. The island is also known for its fresh fish and seafood, which are caught fresh daily by local fishermen.
Traditional Zakynthian dishes
One of the most popular dishes on Zakynthos is the Sartsa, a stew of rabbit (or chicken) with onions, tomatoes, red wine and spices. In general, this dish is often served with rice or potatoes. Although we prefer to avoid dishes with rabbit, tasting the traditional Sartsa turned out to be a tasty surprise.
Kleftiko, another popular Zakynthian dish, is a slow-cooked lamb dish with garlic, onion, lemon and oregano. A dish you often see on the menu, and one to lick your fingers at. Other traditional dishes include Sofrito, a beef dish with onions and white wine, and Pastitsio, a Greek pasta and mince dish covered in béchamel sauce.
Eating out at the best local restaurants and taverns on Zakynthos
If you are looking for an authentic dining experience on Zakynthos, the local taverns are the best places to go. We visited several during our vacation on this Greek island, and are only too happy to share our favorite spots.
Taverna Apelati
When you start and end your vacation at the same taverna, you know you've found a topper of a hot spot. At Taverna Apelati eat authentic Greek food in an atmospheric setting. The farm, where they grow their own fresh produce, is beautifully situated among the mountains. You eat under a rack of vines while the hostess, her mother and daughter pamper you completely. The menu of Taverna Apelati is full of delicious dishes, but above all, let the hostess advise you. Because everything that comes out of the kitchen is not only freshly prepared, it is (almost) all homegrown.
Address: EO Zakinthou Keriou, Keri 290 92 // Price range: €-€€.
Taverna Keri
One of the better Greek taverns on Zakynthos is located in the coastal village of Limni Keri. A place you won't easily visit when not staying here, but Taverna Keri is a very cozy restaurant with sea views to remember. The staff is incredibly friendly and very interested, which makes an evening out to dinner that much more enjoyable. Of course, the menu of this taverna is also full of authentic Greek dishes, but what they mainly excel at are the delicious fresh dishes. Tip: reserve a table on the roof terrace!
Address: Limni Keri, 290 92 // Price range: €-€€.
Taverna Porto Limnionas
In our article 'the most beautiful beaches of Zakynthos' we tip, among others, the secluded bay Porto Limnionas on the west coast of the island. A beautiful place where you can relax after a dip in the water on one of the sun beds of Taverna Port Limnionas. Of course, you can also join us for a nice lunch, or for dinner during sunset. After all, on this side of the island you can see the sun disappear behind the horizon. Taverna Porto Limnionas offers nice tables on a balcony from where you have a beautiful view. Should you wish to eat here, it is best to reserve a table here. The menu is extensive with local and international dishes. We enjoyed a blissful chicken salad and fresh watermelon juice here!
Address: Porto limnionas, Zakinthos 290 92 // Price range: €-€€.
The Windmill Taverna Cafe
Have lunch or dinner with an amazing view of Keri and the sea at The Windmill Taverna Cafe. A beautiful spot on a hill where you can sit beautifully at the glass balustrade. Although the mill here is really just for decoration, it does remind us of the iconic Greek windmills we know from Mykonos. You can eat delicious food at this tavern. You will find not only typical Greek dishes, such as the Gyros Platter, but also a wide range of other Mediterranean dishes on the menu. Thus, this restaurant offers something for everyone.
Address: EO Zakinthou Keriou, Laganas 290 92 // Price range: €€-€€€€-€€€.
Bassia
Save the best for last, a maxim that certainly holds true for this insane restaurant on Zakynthos. Restaurant Bassia can be found in a suburb of Zakynthos Town and is located on a hill with a beautiful view of the sea. You can even see the neighboring island of Kefalonia and mainland Greece. Bassia is a Greek restaurant, but with a modern twist. Characteristic here are the local influences in the dishes of tomato sauce, eggplant and smoked herring. The restaurant only has tables outside, where you eat among illuminated trees in a very intimate atmosphere. The perfect place for a romantic night out for dinner on Zakynthos.
Address: Akrotiri, Zakinthos 291 00 // Price range: €€-€€€€€.
Tips for dining on Zakynthos
When dining out at night on Zakynthos, it is important to take into account the opening hours of the restaurants. Although you will often go along with the rhythm of the Greeks, it is still smart to look into this since many restaurants close between lunch and dinner for a siesta. Want to be sure of a table at a popular restaurant? Then make a reservation on time!
