A family run restaurant and a true gem in Zakynthos! I love love love this restaurant and I don’t use this word lightly. We’ve been there 3 times in our 13 days on this island and tried out as many things as possible. We felt welcome and at ease from the second we got there until the minute we drove off. It was like visiting my own grandpa, if I ever had a Greek grandpa. He chummily toasted with every table with a welcome Schnaps and somehow managed to not get tipsy at all. You have to try their garlic aubergine in red sauce. This is not your average aubergine in tomato sauce but the mother of all the aubergine in red sauce. That roasted garlic smell will send you straight to heaven. The Bruschetta (complimentary) was also finger-licking good. And they served the Greek salad cold which is the only way to eat salads when it’s 35c out. Try not to sprinkle more salt onto the salad as the olives are quite salty already. We had lunch there and easily skipped dinner because we were stuffed to the top. Their menu may not be that big but they surely have everything for everyone, from shrimp to rabbit. Let’s not forget how reasonable their price is! You’re guaranteed to fill up every inch of your belly with less than €27(for 2.) Make sure to visit them and you will be rewarded with one of the utmost warm-hearted hospitalities you can possibly imagine and super flavorful cuisine to keep your...
Read moreIf you're looking for a truly memorable dining experience in Zakynthos, San Leon Restaurant is an absolute gem. We were blown away by the outstanding food and the even better service.
From the moment we arrived, we felt warmly welcomed by the friendly and attentive staff. The atmosphere on the veranda is peaceful and charming, with beautiful views of the countryside – a perfect setting for a relaxed Greek meal.
Every dish we tried was delicious and made with care. The Pastitsada was rich and flavorful, with tender beef and aromatic spices like cinnamon, served over perfectly cooked pasta. The gyros plate came with juicy meat, fresh vegetables, golden fries, and creamy tzatziki – all well-seasoned and satisfying. The souvlaki platter was a highlight too: grilled to perfection and served with pita, rice, and a generous portion of tzatziki. And we can't forget the moussaka, baked beautifully with layers of meat, eggplant, and béchamel – comfort food at its best. Even the simple bruschetta-style starter with tomatoes and feta was bursting with freshness.
What truly sets this place apart, though, is the heartwarming hospitality. The staff made sure everything was perfect and took time to make us feel like more than just customers – we felt like guests.
San Leon is the kind of restaurant that makes you want to come back before you’ve even left. Highly...
Read moreWe stayed on the Western coast of Zakynthos for 3 days, and yet all 3 days, we went back to eat at this restaurant. That’s how good it is was. Their food is amazing and most of it comes from their nearby farm. We also highly recommend you keep some space for desert. This restaurant has a mouthwatering desert proper to the island of Zakynthos: frigagnia. And if you are lucky, you will have the chance to taste their delicious homemade cinnamon liquor.
The Bastas family will receive you with class, warmth and kindness. They are truly dedicated and are always welcoming. The San Leon Tavern is not only a culinary experience, but also a cultural one. We have visited many restaurants around the world, but none of them have received us like the Bastas family.
The beneath picture is missing a big piece of the puzzle: Yianna (sorry if the spelling is wrong). Many of the dishes are based on her delicious recipes. She works behind the scenes, but do not hesitate to ask to meet her after your meal, as she is a very inspiring woman and deserves as much credit as the other members of the Bastas family who work directly with the clients.
Thank you for receiving us and making us feel part of your culture. We will carry the precious memories you have provided us for the rest of our lives and we will certainly be...
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