Flavors of Corfu

Traditional Dishes to Try in Corfu

Sofrito

Sofrito is a Corfiot specialty that blends tender beef or veal with a rich garlic, white wine, and vinegar sauce, served over rice. It’s a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the island’s Venetian influences with Greek culinary traditions. Perfect for a hearty meal!

Pastitsada

Pastitsada is another iconic Corfiot dish. It features slow-cooked beef or chicken in a tomato-based sauce with a variety of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. The dish is usually served with pasta, making it a perfect blend of flavors.

Bourdeto

Bourdeto is a spicy fish stew native to Corfu, typically made with scorpion fish (though other fish may also be used). The dish is cooked with olive oil, tomatoes, and red hot pepper, creating a flavorful, slightly spicy sauce. It’s often served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Cheese Varieties

Corfu is home to several varieties of cheese, with Kasseri (a hard, yellow cheese) and Feta being particularly popular. Anthotyros, a mild, soft cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, is often used in Corfiot recipes or served on its own as an appetizer.

Savoury Pies

Another Corfiot favorite is the Cheese Pie (Tiropita), typically filled with feta cheese and wrapped in crispy, flaky pastry. It’s a popular snack or breakfast option across the island.

Corfiot cuisine offers a delightful array of options that can easily accommodate vegetarians. The island’s long history and diverse cultural influences are reflected in its food, where fresh, local ingredients take center stage. From fragrant herbs and olive oil to an abundance of seasonal vegetables, Corfu’s culinary offerings provide plenty of choices for those who prefer a plant-based diet.

Fasolada

A classic Greek bean soup, Fasolada is made with tomatoes, olive oil, and various vegetables, including carrots, celery, and onions. It's often seasoned with herbs like oregano and is both nutritious and filling.

Gemista

A staple in Greek cuisine, Gemista is made by stuffing tomatoes, peppers, or zucchini with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes vegetables like mushrooms or peas. It’s baked until tender and often served with a drizzle of olive oil.

Greek Salad, or Horiatiki Salata,

A fresh and vibrant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and creamy feta cheese, it's dressed with olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon. This refreshing salad is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering a burst of flavors while showcasing the island's rich agricultural bounty. It’s light and healthy.

 Local Drinks to Try

Koum Quat Liqueur (Kumquat Liqueur)

One of Corfu’s most famous drinks is the Koumquat Liqueur, made from the island’s locally grown kumquat fruit. The fruit, which is small, bitter, and orange, is transformed into a sweet, fragrant liqueur. It’s often served as an aperitif or after dinner drink and makes for a wonderful souvenir to bring back home.

Corfiot Ouzo

Like the rest of Greece, Corfu serves up Ouzo, the famous anise-flavored aperitif. It’s often enjoyed as an aperitif before meals or with meze (small appetizers). Corfu’s version can be found in various local tavernas, and it’s frequently paired with seafood or fresh bread.

Tsipouro

Similar to ouzo but stronger, Tsipouro is a distilled spirit made from grape pomace. It’s commonly served in small glasses and enjoyed as a digestif after meals. In Corfu, some varieties are flavored with herbs or citrus for added complexity.

Corfiot Wine

Corfu produces some wonderful wines, especially Robola, a white wine that’s crisp and refreshing, perfect for pairing with seafood or light dishes. Vertzami, a red wine variety, is another local favorite, known for its deep flavors and complexity. Be sure to try some locally-produced wines at Corfiot tavernas!

Must-Try Snacks & Street Food 

Bougatsa

A sweet or savory pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat, Bougatsa is a popular street food in Corfu. The sweet version, filled with custard, is particularly famous for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

Souvlaki

Though not exclusive to Corfu, Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers, often served with pita, vegetables, and sauce) is a delicious and affordable option for a quick meal. The meat, usually lamb or chicken, is marinated with herbs and served with fresh toppings.

Dining Experiences in Corfu

Seaside Taverns

Corfu’s coastal charm is best enjoyed while dining at one of the many seaside tavernas. Whether you’re overlooking the Ionian Sea or nestled in a quaint harbor, the setting makes the food even more enjoyable. Here, you can savor fresh seafood, like grilled sardines, octopus, and calamari, paired with local wines or ouzo.

Meze Platters

A fantastic way to experience Corfiot cuisine is by trying a meze platter. Meze includes a variety of small dishes, perfect for sharing. Expect to see an assortment of dips like tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber), melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), hummus, and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). You’ll also find cheeses, olives, and fresh bread to enjoy.

Farm-to-Table Dining

Corfu has a long tradition of agriculture and local food production, and many restaurants emphasize farm-to-table dining. You’ll find fresh vegetables, local cheeses, and organic meats incorporated into a wide range of dishes, ensuring that you taste the best of what the island has to offer.

Sweet treats

Greek Baklava

No trip to Corfu is complete without trying a piece of Baklava. This sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup is a Greek classic, and Corfu has its own variations, often with extra pistachios or walnuts.

Loukoumades

These deep-fried dough balls are soaked in honey syrup and often sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar. They’re a sweet and comforting treat, often served at celebrations or enjoyed as an indulgent dessert.

Karydopita (Walnut Cake)

Karydopita is a traditional Corfiot dessert made with walnuts and soaked in syrup. The cake is moist and fragrant, offering a delightful end to any meal.