4 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, kreatopita, etc.). Booking is advised.

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 mussels stewed in Robola wine that makes fine use of the island's specialty ingredients. 

The setting alone is worth paying for, and staying for a long, long time and way past your welcome. Set in the forested surroundings just north of the main run, this family-owned restaurant has tables and chairs right up to the waterfront—with just the breeze and the passing butterflies for company. On the menu are all the Greek favorites—but its specialty is fresh fish, grilled to perfection. Set in a former wine-making area, it also serves up a great range of local tipples.