A Taste of Greece in Alykes - Koukounari Taverna Delights! Koukounari Taverna is a hidden gem that transports you straight to the flavors of Greece. From the moment we stepped through the door, we were greeted with warm smiles and a lively ambiance that set the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.
The menu at Koukounari Taverna showcases the best of Greek cuisine, with an array of traditional dishes that will make your taste buds dance. We started our culinary adventure with the iconic Greek salad, bursting with freshness and vibrant colors. The locally sourced ingredients truly shined through, making it a delightful starter. The stuffed mushrooms were delicious and so was the shrimp saganaki and gigantes.
Moving on to the main courses, we couldn't resist trying the fresh lamb chops and grilled meats that were grilled to perfection, they were juicy and tender, served alongside traditional Zakynthos island bread.
Not only was the food exceptional, but the service at Koukounari Taverna was also top-notch. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of fantastic. They were attentive, welcoming, and had a genuine passion for sharing their culture and culinary delights with every guest.
The icing on the cake was the charming atmosphere of the restaurant. The outdoor dining space was covered in grape vines and greenery buzzing with happy dinners and created a lively and cheerful ambiance that made us feel like we were part of a big Greek family celebration.
To complete our evening, we indulged in a selection of delectable desserts. The baklava, with its layers of flaky pastry and honeyed nuts, was a sweet symphony in our mouths. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you're a local or a tourist visiting Zakynthos Island, Koukounari Taverna is an absolute must-visit. With its authentic Greek flavors, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere, every visit is a celebration of Greece's rich culinary heritage. Make sure to bring your appetite and prepare to be delighted!
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Read moreJust returned from a two-week holiday in Alykes – our very first time in Zakynthos (though our 10th visit of a Greek island) and one of the absolute highlights was discovering Koukounari Taverna on our very first evening.
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed so warmly and shown to a charming table under the tree, which quickly became our table every time we returned. And we did return – six times during our stay! I think that says it all.
Everything was simply wonderful: the delicious food lovingly prepared by the owner’s mother, the genuinely friendly and respectful staff, and the relaxed, authentic atmosphere that made every visit feel like dining with family. One of the most special touches was when we mentioned a traditional Zakynthos dish, Spetsofai, which we couldn’t find anywhere on the island and Kevin, the owner, arranged to have it cooked for us, even though it wasn’t on the menu. A memory we will treasure!
Kevin and everyone at Koukounari, thank you from the bottom of our hearts! You didn’t just serve us dinner, you completed our Greek holiday experience. Without a doubt, this is our number one place for an evening meal...
Read moreWe visited “Koukounari” a few days ago and we had high hopes for this restaurant since we had heard good things about it , but unfortunately, it turned out to be a major letdown. The food was completely flavourless — not what you’d expect from a place that presents itself as refined or traditional.
The moussaka, which the staff recommended as a house specialty, was seriously overrated. It was overcooked, dry, and lacked any depth of taste. The potatoes served with it were absolutely drenched in oil ( more soggy than crispy.)
My wife ordered the lamb chops, which were not only burnt but ridiculously small for the price we paid. It felt more like a tapas portion than a proper main course.
To top it all off, we ordered dessert hoping to end the meal on a good note, only to discover a piece of eggshell in it. That sealed the deal for us — poor quality control and a clear lack of care in the kitchen.
Definitely not going back, and wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for...
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