Corfu

Corfu isn’t just a feast for the eyes with its turquoise waters and olive-covered hills—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. This Ionian island has developed a cuisine all its own, shaped by centuries of cultural influences and a strong connection to local ingredients. Whether you're wandering through Corfu Town or relaxing in a seaside village, the island invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Here's what to look out for when eating and drinking your way through Corfu.

Traditional Corfiot food you must try Corfu, a lush island in the Ionian Sea, offers a culinary experience deeply rooted in its history and geography. Influenced by Venetian, French and British rule, as well as its Greek heritage, Corfiot cuisine stands apart from the rest of Greece. The food here is rich, flavorful and full of character, often using local ingredients like tomatoes, olive oil, wine, wild herbs and citrus.

One of the island’s most iconic dishes is pastitsada, a hearty meal usually made with rooster or beef, slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce infused with cinnamon, cloves and red wine, and served over thick pasta. Another must-try is sofrito, a Venetian-influenced dish of thinly sliced beef simmered in white wine, garlic and parsley, typically accompanied by mashed potatoes or rice.

Seafood is also central to Corfu’s cuisine, and dishes like bourdeto—spicy fish stew cooked in a red pepper and tomato sauce—showcase the island’s love for bold flavors. If you’re a fan of meze, don’t miss out on tsigarelli, a spicy wild greens dish sautéed with garlic, chili and olive oil, often served as a side or vegetarian main.

Drinks that define the island experience When it comes to drinks, Corfu offers both traditional Greek beverages and unique local specialties. One of the most famous is kumquat liqueur, made from the small citrus fruit introduced by the British in the 19th century. You’ll find this bright orange liqueur served as a digestif after meals, or mixed into cocktails across the island.

Wine is also an important part of Corfu’s identity, with several small vineyards producing reds and whites that pair beautifully with the local food. Try a glass of Kakotrygis, a white wine variety that has been grown on Corfu for centuries. It’s crisp and dry, perfect for seafood and summer evenings. For beer lovers, Corfu Beer is a local craft brewery producing pale ales, IPAs and specialty brews using natural ingredients and no preservatives—worth a visit if you’re exploring the north of the island.

Coffee culture is strong in Corfu, as in the rest of Greece. You’ll find locals sipping on freddo espresso or frappé at almost any hour. Whether you’re in a beach café or a quiet village square, ordering a cold coffee and watching the world go by is a must-do experience.

Where to eat: from tavernas to fine dining Corfu has a wide range of places to eat, from humble tavernas in hilltop villages to elegant restaurants overlooking the sea. In Corfu Town, you’ll find everything from traditional mezedopoleia (small plate restaurants) to modern eateries serving Greek fusion cuisine. To Tsipouradiko is a local favorite for trying a wide range of small dishes and house-made tsipouro in a relaxed setting. Avli in the old town offers a more elevated take on Corfiot classics, with a romantic courtyard atmosphere.

If you're heading to the west coast, the village of Pelekas has several charming tavernas with stunning sunset views and home-cooked food. In the northeast, the area around Kassiopi offers more upscale options, often with menus featuring locally caught seafood, handmade pasta and creative desserts inspired by island produce.

For a truly local experience, try dining at one of the inland village tavernas where families cook from recipes passed down through generations. Places like Tripas Taverna in Kinopiastes are famous for their lively atmosphere, traditional music and long, delicious meals that feel more like a celebration than a dinner.

Whether you’re grabbing a souvlaki by the beach or enjoying an elaborate multi-course dinner, Corfu’s food scene is all about flavor, warmth and a deep connection to the land and sea.