11 Best Restaurants in Kefalonia, Greece

As is the case with much of Kefalonia, many of its dining gems are found outside of the larger towns. Il Borgo lies in the lee of Agios Georgios Castle, 15 minutes' drive south of Argostoli, and makes for a dramatic pit stop. Its vine-shaded terrace has easily the best dining views on the island and the food isn't far behind, with homespun pastitsada (one-pot pasta) and lip-smacking youvetsi (slow-cooked lamb leg and orzo) soothing both belly and soul.

This inventive taverna, run by a pair of local twins, is well loved by islanders. The atmosphere is never less than bouncing, with the dying light accompanied by the old-world strains of Greek guitar and the husky accompaniment of moist-eyed diners. The hand-written, meat-heavy menu is capable of surprises, too, with house takes on traditional favorites (kleftiko, kreapita, etc.) accompanied by some really interesting pork dishes. Booking is advised.

Meat is the order of the day here, typically served in huge portions, at decent prices, and with fries on the side. This robust grillhouse is a favorite with village locals, who make invariably friendly dining companions as you tuck into succulent lamb chops, great heaving hunks of pork, and local-style sausage, all with a glass of chilled Robola wine to hand.

This venerable taverna stands apart from the needy café-bars that ring the waterside of Assos village. It's a solid old-stager with a menu of classic Greek mezedes, grills, seafood, souvlakis, and a far larger than usual range of vegetarian dishes. The more rural dishes, such as the goat stifado or rabbit lagoto stews, are particularly rewarding.

Perched on the cusp of Megas Lakkos Beach, with a garden terrace running to the shore, you couldn't get much closer to the water. The seafood is excellent, though demand often curtails the menu, so it pays to get there early. The monkfish tail wrapped in guanciale (Italian cured meat) is a particular delight.

Owner Tassia Dendrinou has become something of a local culinary celeb in recent years, with a couple of cookbooks to her name, and her quayside restaurant attracts celebs such as Tom Hanks, a frequent visitor to Fiskardo. Her menu is creative, with dishes such as octopus and chickpea puree and a fulsome Robola chicken that makes fine use of the island's specialty wine. As with all the restaurants lining Fiskardo's harbor, try to grab a waterside seat outside for the best views.

A stone-walled interior sets the scene for this family-run slice of traditional taverna cooking. The friendly owner is good for a suggestion or two, though the Kefalonian kreatopita (three-meat pie) is well worth sinking your teeth into.