Taverna Nikolas - Agni Bay

Taverna Nikolas - Summer

Our favourite Taverna in Agni Bay is "Taverna Nikolas" which has been run by the present owner, Periklis Katsaros, for the past 25 years. It is entirely family run with Voula, Periklis' wife running the kitchen. Their daughters, Yianna and Alexia will often be found there and even their young son Nikolas lends a hand!

Periklis' grandfather, the original Nikolas, built the taverna during the 1800's. It is very popular with both the local people and tourists alike having been featured on a number of television programmes within the UK.

Taverna Nikolas - Winter

We first met Periklis during our first visit to the island and have become firm friends. He is like all Greeks, extremely hospitable. This hospitality is extended to all of his customers who enjoy his constant good humour.

During the tourist season, Periklis will be found tearing around the taverna at an enormous rate! It makes you tired just watching! We have often marvelled at his capacity for hard work..

He is without a doubt, one of the hardest working men we have ever met. He is up at the crack of dawn, to go to the markets in Corfu Town or maybe Kassiopi. Upon  his return he will be found at the taverna until long after the last customer has left. He will then be found tidying up and preparing for the next day!

Should you visit, be sure to go into the main building part of the taverna and feast your eyes on the many photographs, items of memorabilia and autographs of those who have visited in the past. These include film and TV stars. The house itself is a fine example of an old Greek dwelling. The recently exposed ceiling joists are enormous.

There has been at least one senior member of the British royal family who has visited in the past. Surprisingly, she did not leave an autograph, but is understood to have enjoyed the liquid refreshment provided!

Eating Greek Style
The menu is extensive and typically Greek it is also very reasonable. There are many dishes to suit younger visitors and vegetarians. The wines and spirits are varied. Local and European beers and lagers are available. If you have any particular dietary needs, every effort is made to meet them. We have witnessed food being supplied for a young baby whose mum was the shown to the back of the taverna to where she could use the liquidiser. Nothing is too much trouble!

Hints!
The following are a few tips to make your eating out more pleasurable. They not only apply to eating out at Taverna Nikolas, but should be applied anywhere in Greece. If you have others that you think should be included, mail us and we'll add them.

• Booze is cheap! Don't overdo it - particularly during the heat of the day. This particularly applies, if, like us, you develop a taste for ouzo!
• Occasionally try eating like the Greeks. Forget about starters followed by a main course, followed by a dessert. Order a selection and share it amongst your party. Order a few items first and order more as the meal progresses. Try fresh seasonal fruit to finish off your meal. This makes a refreshing change. We would kill to get oranges like those in Corfu!
• Take your time. Your meal is part of the holiday. Unlike back home, nobody will be clamouring for you to leave your table. Essentially, once you sit down and order, that table is yours until you leave.
• Most menus include service charges. However, a small gratuity is always appreciated and invariably reaps its own rewards
• Finally, be aware that this is not fast food like a burger bar. All food is prepared and cooked individually and so a wait is inevitable at busy times. Be patient, chill out and have another round of drinks! It won't bankrupt you!

Greek Night
As with all Greek tavernas, a "Greek Night" is held once a week (usually Thursdays) during the tourist season. It is extremely popular and prior booking is advisable. This is a complete evenings entertainment and is highly recommended. There is live music and of course, traditional Greek dancing. To view some images of Greek night at Taverna Nikolas, check out our images of a typical Greek Night! .