4 Best Restaurants in Kontokali, Corfu

The Botrini family restaurant is considered one of the best in Greece (the Athens branch has a Michelin star), and it certainly can be classed as among the most inventive, offering a menu of Italian- and Greek-inspired dishes. Chef Ettore Botrini demonstrates his flawless technique with a big blast of creativity on the molecular gastronomy front. You know dinner will be a marvel when the amuse bouche arrives, followed by appetizers such as carpaccio of octopus or swordfish, feta cheese "snow" and risotto with turmeric and sea urchin. A main course choice might be a variation of Corfu Tsigarelli (a dish with greens, onions, and tomatoes), or maybe slow-cooked belly pork with Granny Smith apple puree. Rounding out the experience is the cozy and modern decor, with the best tables—often booked solid with chic and wealthy Corfiots—set out in a large and charmingly antique courtyard. Just save your pennies and make your reservations now.

Choose from whatever fish is fresh that day—it could be sea bream, mullet, sole, squid, or snapper—or choose a steak or chicken filet. Sit on the waterfront terrace and watch the boats heading in and out of the marina. It's a bit difficult to find; pass the Kontokali Bay Hotel, then go left at every junction, keeping your eyes open for the signs for "Roula."

One of the island's longest-established and most famous fish restaurants, Gerekos pulls its catch daily from the family's own boats. The choice varies each day according to the season, but the friendly staff will show you what's available and guide your choice. For a light meze, opt for marinated anchovies and delicious clams, accompanied by a salad and a crisp white wine. Other local fish dishes to try are Christo's famous fish soup, bianco (fish stewed with oil, lemon and garlic), and lobster pastitsada. The location in the centre of a village where local residents live alongside tourists, makes for a fun, if sometimes noisy, experience.

Sitting in the "V" formed by the two streets in the village of Kato Korakiana, this taverna is where locals come to dine on wonderfully prepared local dishes. It's a good place to order several small plates and share a variety of tastes, like gigantes (giant beans stewed with tomato) or pork croquettes in cranberry sauce. Other dishes worth a try are the meatballs, grilled pork souvlaki, or one of the steaks with a classic sauce. The taverna offers two house wines: a blend of Cabernet and Merlot; or one of Agioritiko and Chardonnay. On summer weekends it is best to make a reservation, as the premises are not large.