A Guide to the Best Restaurants in Zante

There’s nothing quite like a delicious meal to make your vacation in Zante even more enjoyable. With its unique mix of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, the island offers a range of culinary experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner for two, a family feast, or a hearty meal after a day of sightseeing, Zante has it all. From traditional tavernas to chic restaurants, here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Zante for your next trip.

Traditional Tavernas

Where better to sample the famous Greek cuisine than at traditional tavernas? These establishments are known for their hearty and tasty dishes, often cooked in a wood-fired oven. Some of the best traditional tavernas in Zante include the family-run Porto Sani in Vasilikos, the picturesque To Stachi in the port of Agios Nikolaos, and the renowned Taverna Agios Sostis in Zakynthos town.

These tavernas serve classic Greek dishes like moussaka, Greek salads, and grilled meats. But if you’re looking for something a bit more special, you can also find dishes like seafood stew, stuffed tomatoes, and grilled octopus. For a truly authentic experience, try out Mezedopoleio Agios Sostis in Zakynthos town. Here, you can enjoy traditional meze platters with a selection of local dishes like dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves), tzatziki, and spanakopita (spinach and feta pie).

Traditional tavernas are great for enjoying a relaxed meal with friends and family. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Seafood Restaurants

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Zante. The island is known for its fresh and succulent seafood, and there are plenty of excellent seafood restaurants to choose from. For the freshest and most flavourful seafood, head to the fishing village of Limni Keri. Here, you can enjoy the catch of the day at the family-run Psaropoula. Or for something a bit more upscale, try the elegant Akrogiali restaurant, with its stunning views of the sea.

At these restaurants, you can enjoy dishes like grilled octopus, fried calamari, and lobster spaghetti. For something a bit more unusual, try the traditional kakavia (fish soup) or the garides saganaki (shrimp with feta cheese). The seafood is usually cooked to perfection, with the freshest ingredients, so you’ll be sure to have a delicious meal.

Seafood restaurants are also a great way to enjoy the local culture. You can watch the fishermen come back from their day out at sea, and hear stories from the local people. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.

Italian Restaurants

If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Zante is the place to go. The island has a long history of Italian influence, and there are plenty of excellent Italian restaurants to choose from. For a romantic dinner, head to the chic La Bella Vita in Zakynthos town. Here, you can enjoy classic Italian dishes like lasagne, risotto, and pizza. Or for something a bit different, try the family-run La Locanda, with its delicious homemade pasta dishes.

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience, head to the seaside village of Keri. Here, you can find the popular Trattoria di Mare, with its traditional Italian recipes. Or for something a bit more upscale, try the sophisticated La Bussola, with its spectacular views of the sea. Here, you can enjoy dishes like osso buco and ravioli, as well as a selection of delicious Italian desserts.

Italian restaurants offer the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner for two. Enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious meal, while you soak up the views of the sea.

Greek Cuisine

No visit to Zante is complete without sampling the local Greek cuisine. There are plenty of excellent Greek restaurants to choose from, each offering its own unique take on classic dishes. For something traditional, head to the family-run Psaropoula in Limni Keri. Here, you can enjoy dishes like moussaka, Greek salads, and grilled meats. Or for something a bit more upscale, try the elegant Thea restaurant in Zakynthos town.

Greek cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Dishes like Greek salad, spanakopita, and tzatziki are staples of the local cuisine. But there are plenty of other dishes to try, such as the traditional dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), the hearty stifado (beef stew), and the delicious pastitsio (baked macaroni dish).

Greek restaurants are great for enjoying a relaxed meal with friends and family. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

International Cuisine

For something a bit different, Zante also offers a range of international restaurants. From Mexican to Chinese, there’s something for everyone. For Mexican cuisine, head to the lively El Diablo in Zakynthos town. Here, you can enjoy dishes like tacos, burritos, and nachos. Or for something a bit more exotic, try the family-run China Palace in Vasilikos. Here, you can enjoy dishes like sweet and sour pork, spring rolls, and chicken chow mein.

International restaurants are great for trying out new flavours and cuisines. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican or Chinese food, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants

Zante is also becoming increasingly vegan-friendly, with a range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants popping up across the island. For vegan and vegetarian cuisine, head to the family-run Veggie Garden in Agios Nikolaos. Here, you can enjoy dishes like falafel wraps, veggie burgers, and vegan pizza. Or for something a bit different, try the stylish Green Leaf in Vasilikos. Here, you can enjoy dishes like veggie lasagne, courgette fritters, and vegan cakes.

Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are great for those looking for a healthy, nutritious meal. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Fast Food Restaurants

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, Zante also offers a range of fast food restaurants. For something truly local, try the family-run Gyros Place in Agios Nikolaos. Here, you can enjoy dishes like gyros wraps, souvlaki, and Greek salads. Or for something a bit more international, try the popular Burger King in Zakynthos town. Here, you can enjoy classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

Fast food restaurants are great for those looking for a quick and easy meal. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Cafes and Bakeries

If you’re looking for something sweet, Zante also offers a range of cafes and bakeries. For something traditional, head to the family-run Papagalos in Limni Keri. Here, you can enjoy delicious pastries like baklava, galaktoboureko, and kataifi. Or for something a bit more modern, try the stylish Delice in Zakynthos town. Here, you can enjoy cakes, cupcakes, and ice cream.

Cafes and bakeries are great for those looking for a sweet treat. Prices are usually reasonable too, so it’s easy to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Zante offers a range of delicious culinary experiences for food lovers of all tastes. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner for two, a family feast, or a hearty meal after a day of sightseeing, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds. From traditional tavernas to chic Italian restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Zante. So why not take a culinary journey and sample the best of what the island has to offer?