Harry's Taverna, adjacent to Gouvia Marina in the Village of Kontokali, Corfu, Greece, has been serving locals and travelers alike for more than a century. Spanning three generations, Harry's Taverna was officially established in 1912, offering travelers warm hospitality and excellent meals in an inviting setting. Click here to learn more about the history of Harry's Taverna...
When choosing a restaurant while on holiday, every traveler hopes for quality. Harry's Taverna delivers that quality in every way with its service, its friendly and interesting atmosphere, and, most of all, its time-honored recipes prepared and served at a price that won't overextend the traveler's budget. Click here to learn more about the specialities of the house and the quality of the service provided by Harry's Taverna...
When visiting Corfu we hope you visit Harry's, a traditional Greek taverna that has been serving customers for over a century. Click here for the location and opening hours. Don't forget to read or sign the guestbook to see what people are saying about Harry's Taverna.
The history of Harry's Taverna is both a long and interesting one...
First established in the late 1800's by Andonios Gerekos, Harry's was a mid-point stable stop for farmers in Corfu's outlying villages who were bringing their animals to Corfu Town to sell to the butcher. At Harry's, these farmers found water for their horses and donkeys, and simple food and drink for themselves. Often they slept beneath the boughs of the leafy trees outside the simple taverna before resuming their journey to the town.
Somewhat later a small grocery shop was established on the premises, offering both local village people and travelers alike staple foods for their daily existence. Drinks were kept cold in summer by submerging the bottles in the well in front of the taverna.
In the 1960's, as the first cars came to Kontokali Village, Harry Gerekos, the father of the present-day owner, Spiros Gerekos, established a petrol station next to the taverna, but its existence was short-lived as business was sparse -- only a few passing lorries. Shortly after he closed the petrol station, the old stable literally fell down.
In the 1970's tourism came in earnest to Corfu. At that time, Harry's Taverna was principally a bar, serving drinks and only very modest meals. Then, in the 1980's, Spiros Gerekos, grandson of the original owner, renovated the taverna extensively, leading to the beautiful restaurant we see today.
The History of Harry's Taverna
At Harry's Taverna, each dish is prepared using traditional recipes and the freshest ingredients available. Many of the dishes originate directly from Corfu, such as:
Sofrito -- Tender roasted beef in a white wine and garlic sauce and garnished with potatoes and fresh vegetables of the season.
Pastitsada --Roasted veal in a spicy sauce accompanied by Corfu pasta.
Fresh meats are roasted on the spit every day in the grill room. Choose from a variety of lamb, chicken, pork or beef, or opt for the mixed grill plate to sample a variety of these fine entrees from the spit. Also available on the grill are a variety of beef steaks, pork chops, lamb chops, chicken and fresh fish.
Traditional Greek dishes at Harry's Taverna include:
Stifado -- Veal stew with onions cooked in cloves and cinnamon.
Mousakas -- Baked aubergines, potatoes, minced meat in bechamel.
Arni Kleftiko --Roasted lamb cooked in papilllote (a delicate mustard sauce) garnished with roasted potatoes, peppers and onions and served with fresh vegetables of the season.
Soutzoukakia -- Meat balls cooked in tomato sauce and served with rice
Sea food entrees at Harry's Taverna include:
Grilled or Stuffed Squid
Kalamari
Sea bream
Mussels
Swordfish
Trout
Grilled prawns and king-sized shrimp
Also available at Harry's Taverna are a long list of essential hot and cold Greek appetizers as well as fresh salads, special plates for vegetarians, and smaller portions for children.
At Harry's, there is a fully stocked bar offering liqueurs, bottled and local wines, bottled and draft beers, as well as a variety of soft drinks.
Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, Harry's Taverna offers homemade desserts including baklava and a variety of ice creams. A complimentary plate of fresh fruit of the season concludes each meal.
Specialties of the House
Welcoming travelers for more than a century, hospitality has become the uncompromising trademark of the service found at Harry's Taverna. Owner Spiros Gerekos and his son Harry are supported by an able staff, and every attention is paid to detail for an enjoyable and unhurried dining experience.
During summer, meals are served in the outdoor garden; during cooler or inclement weather, meals are served at fireside in the ample dining room.
Larger parties are always welcome and appropriate seating is easily arranged. Children are welcome, too. Access is also easy for the physically challenged.
Service
Harry's Taverna is located in Kontokali Village, 7 km. north of Corfu Town and is a mere 100 meters from Gouvia Marina.
Corfu's tourist season traditionally lasts from May through October, and Harry's Taverna is open for dinner during those months from 18:00 until the last patron has gone. Harry's is also often open as early as March or for special occasions, though offering a more limited menu.
Please feel free to contact Harry's Taverna for general information or to arrange seating for larger groups.
