Our guide to Self-Catering in Corfu

Corfu stands as the perfect destination for a self-catering holiday due to its rich culinary heritage, abundant fresh local produce, and scenic beauty. The island offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture through its proud cuisine. The region boasts an array of large and small supermarkets alongside Corfu Town’s notorious food market, all brimming with fresh fruit and vegetables, fragrant herbs and locally caught and sourced produce. Creating the perfect holiday destination for you to assemble classic local dishes or experiment with ingredients in the comfort of your accommodation. Corfu’s charming villages and stunning coastal views provide a picturesque backdrop for al fresco dining, whilst the flexibility of self-catering allows you to dine on your own schedule, explore hidden beaches and coves, tucked away towns, and experience the island’s authentic charm at your own pace. A self-catering holiday in Corfu makes for one truly personalised, adventurous and unforgettable getaway.    

Supermarkets 

In Corfu, supermarkets and food shops typically open between 8:00am-9:00am and close between 15:00pm-16:00pm in the afternoon. Usually, only large supermarkets in Corfu open for longer hours and on Sunday. For the vast majority, both cash and card payments are accepted.  

Avlaki and Coyevinas

For our villa guests staying in or around Avlaki & Coyevinas, Niko’s is your finest and nearest local supermarket. Conveniently located on the main road just before you reach the town of Kassiopi, the well-known supermarket sells a variety of fresh local produce alongside your essentials necessary for a complete holiday. A bonus about Niko’s, is that it also runs a food delivery service straight to your villa for those either without a car or wanting to save a trip to the supermarket. This can all be arranged by your destination expert.   

Kalamaki, Perithia and Agios Ioannis

Whilst holidaying in this remote but beautiful part of the Northeast coast of Corfu, you have two options when it comes to local supermarkets. You can either pop into Kassiopi to get everything you need from the variety of stores, or you can take a short drive down the main road, turn left at Ice Dream (the ice-cream parlour) and onto a road with two tavernas and Supermarket Dimitras. Here, you can purchase all the traditional local ingredients and food essentials needed for the perfect self-catering getaway.  

Kaminaki and Agni

For those staying in Kaminaki and Agni, Aphrodite Supermarket is the ideal spot for purchasing essential staples alongside more traditional ingredients. Located just by Nissaki Beach, this diverse Corfu supermarket sells a good selection of local produce alongside running a bakery which is extremely popular with locals and holidaymakers alike. Aphrodite Supermarket is on route from the airport, so one option is to pop in and stock up on traditional Greek food at the beginning of your trip.  

Kassiopi and Kelia

Niko’s Supermarket is also a great local spot to pick up ingredients and culinary essentials for a self-catering holiday in Kassiopi and Kelia. However, big Corfu supermarkets Pandora and Diellas are also great options, offering a variety of different local produce alongside a deli counter. But the highlight of Kassiopi’s food scene is its well-known bakery, ‘Nicolas Bakery’. Here you can treat yourself to all of Greece’s traditional sweets alongside savoury options. They also bake their own cakes, which can be purchased if you’re celebrating a birthday during your holiday. The bakery accepts card payments and functions as a takeaway and delivery service!   

Kerasia

This striking and remote part of the coast is not walking distance to any supermarkets. Self-catering guests will require a car when holidaying in this region. The nearest shops for purchasing amenities are in the village St Stephano. Otherwise, head in the opposite direction to Aphrodite’s Supermarket near Nissaki Beach. The store also runs a bakery, coffee and flower shop at your convenience. For this location, we recommend stocking up on plenty of supplies at the beginning of your stay, and head to small supermarkets for spontaneous items. 

Kokkokilas & Kokkini

Guests staying in Kokkokilas and Kokkini region can purchase their food supplies from Yannis Supermarket in Sinies. Here, you will find a wide selection of groceries to stock up for the perfect self-catering holiday! Yannis Supermarket has an abundance of traditional Greek cheeses alongside a wonderful deli counter. Purchase some fresh ingredients for a delicious Greek breakfast, lunch and dinner.  

Nissaki, Barbati, Gouvia, Kommeno and Corfu Town 

Further south down the island towards Corfu Town, Nissaki, Barbati, Gouvia and Kommeno, you have an abundance of large supermarkets to choose from, including Lidl and Diellas LTD which are open on Sundays. If you’d rather stock up on all your groceries for the week on arrival, head to these larger supermarkets on your way up the Northeast coast of the island. Or if you’re looking for a more local supermarket nearby Nissaki, opt for Joy Market Shopping Centre or Super Market Nicolas by Barbati Beach. They accept card payments and will sell the necessary ingredients to facilitate typical Greek breakfasts, lunch and dinner for self-catering guests.    

St Stephano

If you’re staying in the charming and peaceful village of San Stephano, you probably don’t want to spend too much time away from the quaint harbour. Fortunately, everything you need for a self-catered holiday is along the harbour’s main street. From little food stores with an abundance of hospitality like San Stephano Supermarket, to a large supermarket chain called Kazianis. All your traditional Greek ingredients and personal luxuries can be purchased here.  

Yialskari, Kalami and Kouloura

When staying in or nearby Yialskari, Kalami or Kouloura, Supermarket Giorgos is the go-to. Located on the main road in Kalami, only 20 metres from the beach, this convenient shop sells traditional Greek ingredients and local produce including fresh fruit and vegetables alongside delicious seafood. Its location makes it ideal for visitors to purchase their ingredients and food staples before heading back to their accommodation after a relaxing day at the beach.  

Markets

Corfu Town

Corfu Town is home to the only public food market on the island. It consists of several food stalls and a cafe, selling an abundance of fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, cheeses and dry goods such as honey, spices and olive oil. The market is open from 8:30am to 14:00am Monday to Saturday but is unfortunately closed on Sundays. It is always recommended to get there as early as possible in the morning to guarantee the freshest and finest produce. The market is found right under the New Fortress and is a wholesome and authentic place to visit for a traditional Greek experience. Additionally, if you’d rather not buy anything at the market to take back to your accommodation, you can relax at the café inside the market and have a delicious meal. The café serves an array of coastal dishes including fresh sardines, calamari, traditional Greek salad, mussel chow and grilled or stewed octopus. Katherine the owner, is charming and accommodating, she will look after you very well. Despite not being every visitor’s first thought, Corfu Town is a beautiful part of the island, and a visit wouldn’t be complete without sampling the market.  

Northeast region

Despite there being only one public food market on the island, during peak summer times, trucks selling foods and goods drive along the East coast all the way up to Kassiopi. Whilst they typically sell fresh fruit and vegetables, they can offer anything from wine grapes to Terracotta bowls dependent on the time of year. They will often park at the end of Kassiopi harbour, so keep an eye out! This is a sweet little alternative to big supermarkets if you’re lucky enough to spot them. 

Typical Breakfasts in Corfu 

A typical Greek breakfast often includes simple yet flavourful foods that reflect the Mediterranean culinary heritage. And luckily, as a visitor, you have a variety of traditional options to choose from for your first meal of the day! You might head to your local market for freshly baked bread or fancy a more indulgent breakfast in the form of Loukomades! If you aren’t familiar with this delicious Greek pastry treat, they are small fluffy donuts drizzled with honey and walnuts. The aromatic honey of Corfu is a welcome addition to any dish. Decadent and delicious, this favourite is the perfect way to kick start your morning. 

For others who are gluten intolerant or seeking a less rich breakfast, opt for some local creamy yoghurt accompanied by an assortment of fresh fruit. Go wild with your combinations of fruit, the Corfu markets offer such a vibrant diversity! If in search for a savoury breakfast, look no further than a Spanakopita (spinach pie) or tiropita (cheese pie), these Greek dishes are made with flaky puff pastry and get snatched up quickly! So, get down to your local supermarket or bakery as early as possible.

The typical Greek breakfast cannot be completed without a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and a cup of strong Greek coffee, which is an integral part of the morning for many locals. On a particularly hot day, we’d recommend ordering a Frappe (iced coffee) to cool off. One of the benefits of a Greek Breakfast is that there is enough variety to suit everyone’s culinary appetite whilst it is practical for a self-catering holiday.   

Typical Lunches in Corfu

Corfu’s delectable cuisine, characterised by fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean flavours, ensures a delightful and nutritious midday meal. A typical Greek lunch often starts with a selection of meze (appetizers). Popular dishes comprise of Tzatziki, a refreshing yoghurt and cucumber dip, taramasalata, another dip made from mixing cod roe, lemon juice and locally produced olive oil. Dolmades, vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, and melitzanosalata, an elegant aubergine spread. These fragrant appetisers are traditionally accompanied with bread, perfect for dipping!

Salads are a corner stone of the traditional Greek lunch, including the salad that needs no introduction. The Greek Salad, which is comprised of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and generous slabs of feta cheese, all dressed with olive oil and oregano. This traditional, vibrant and crunchy salad makes for a refreshing and healthy Greek lunch. Like a Guinness, it tastes much better closer to home. Corfu, also known for its seafood, commonly serves fresh fish such as sardines, swordfish or seabass.

Some other favourites of the island include grilled octopus, prawns and clams. All of which are only complimented by generous toppings of olive oil, lemon and herbs. Fortunately, everything you need to cook these simple dishes for yourself can be purchased easily from your local Greek supermarket. We recommend guests arrive at their local supermarket early for the best and freshest produce.

Vegetarians don’t fret, courgettes, potatoes, tomatoes, onions and bell peppers can just as easily be bought and paired together in the comfort of your accommodation to make the delicious Briam. This tasty veggie option is typically oven-roasted and proudly celebrates the best of Corfu’s local produce.

A traditional Greek lunch wouldn’t be complete without an accompaniment of local wine or a Greek liqueur like ouzo or tsipouro. Just bare in my mind the latter two aren’t for the faint hearted. Freshly squeezed juices are also a popular choice for children and those seeking a less-boozy lunch! 

Typical Dinners in Corfu 

Just like breakfast and lunch, a traditional Greek dinner is versatile in its flavours and textures, whilst being accommodating for those with varying dietary requirements. Corfiot cuisine, with its blend of Greek and Venetian influences, ensures a memorable and flavourful dinner experience, especially when you prepare it yourself in the comfort of your luxury villa whilst using the region’s best local ingredients.

Begin your evening meal with a selection of small plates, which are ideal for sharing amongst a family or group of friends on holiday. One favourite is Saganaki, which is the ultimate recipe for cheese lovers! This simple and beloved traditional Greek appetiser, made with only three ingredients and can be ready in less than 10 minutes! All you need are the three Greek cheeses graviera, kefalograviera and kefalotyri, which can be bought from your local supermarket. 

Another great meal perfect for self-catering is Moussaka, which comprises of aubergines, potatoes, tomatoes, beef or lamb mince and topped off with a creamy Béchamel sauce. Prepared similarly to a lasagna, it’s a lot of fun to make with others and can cater for a larger group. This staple Greek meal is very popular across the board, and its ingredients can all be purchased from small and large supermarkets local to your region.

Additionally, seafood remains a highlight of Corfiot dinners. Baked sea bream or sea bass, simply prepared with olive oil, lemon and herbs, provides a light and delicious main course. Serve it with a side of Horta, (boiled wild greens) and dress again with olive oil and lemon juice for a truly authentic Corfiot meal.

Vegetarians can opt for Gemista, which are tomatoes and peppers stuffed with a fragrant mixture of rice, herbs, and occasionally nuts or raisins. Luckily, you don’t have to ask about allergies, because you’ll be choosing the ingredients! Finish with the famous baklava, which can be bought from your local bakery or supermarket and is the perfect sweet to end on. These dishes truly are simple to make, yet still impress and compliment any villa’s setting.   

Your Starter Shopping List

Fresh Produce

• Tomatoes 

• Cucumbers 

• Bell Peppers (red and green) 

• Onions (red and white) 

• Garlic 

• Courgettes 

• Aubergines 

• Potatoes 

• Lemons 

• Oranges 

• Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint, oregano, basil) 

• Seasonal fruits (figs, grapes, apples) 

• Lettuce and mixed greens 

• Wild greens for Horta 

Dairy and Eggs

• Greek Yoghurt 

• Feta cheese 

• Mizithra or other local cheeses 

• Eggs 

Bakery

• Freshly baked bread 

• Phyllo dough (for making Greek pies like spanakopita or tiropita) 

• Barley rusks (for Dakos salad) 

Meat and Seafood

• Chicken breasts or thighs 

• Beef or lamb mince (for Moussaka) 

• Fresh fish (such as sea bream or sea bass) 

• Octopus for grilled squid 

Dry Goods and Staple Items

• Olive oil 

• Vinegar (red wine or balsamic) 

• Rice (short grain for stuffing and long for sides) 

• Pasta (such as orzo or spaghetti for pastitsada) 

• Flour (all purpose and semolina) 

• Honey 

• Nuts (walnuts and almonds) 

• Raisins or sultanas 

• Spices (salt, pepper, paprika, cinnamon) 

• Sugar 

• Coffee (Greek coffee or instant) 

• Tea 

Canned and Jarred Goods

• Tomato paste 

• Canned tomatoes 

• Olives (Kalamata and green) 

• Capers 

Beverages

• Local wine (red, white or rose) 

• Ouzo or tsipouro 

• Freshly squeezed juices 

• Bottled still and sparkling 

With these items and ingredients, you’ll be well equipped to prepare a variety of delicious and authentic Greek meals, ensuring a delightful and memorable self-catering holiday. Enjoy exploring the local markets and supermarkets, or just view these suggestions as guidelines and explore the local produce yourself.   

Our Favourite Self-Catering Villas and Supermarkets in Corfu

Our company proudly offers an exceptional collection of self-catering villas in Corfu, each designed to provide a luxurious, comfortable and unforgettable holiday experience. Among some of our favourites on the island are Villa Alisoni, Nero Beach House and Bolovinos House, each with unique features that optimise the self-catering holiday.

Villa Alisoni, located in the charming village of Kerasia, boasts beautiful outdoor and indoor dining areas, both exquisitely decorated and offering breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the sun or a candlelit dinner in the shade, the ambiance at Villa Alisoni is unmatched. Making every self-catered breakfast, lunch and dinner a memorable occasion.

Nero Beach house sits directly on the tranquil waters of Kalamaki Beach. This villa is a haven for those who love al fresco living. It features a wonderful outdoor kitchen area and dining table shaded from the sun’s hot gaze, perfect for enjoying meals while overlooking the serene bay. The outdoor spaces at Nero Beach House are thoughtfully designed to accommodate self-catering guests whilst complimenting the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Bolivinos House impresses with its grand exterior and spacious patio. Overlooking the picturesque St Stephanos harbour and coast, this villa offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm. The expansive outdoor dining area is ideal for large gatherings, whether it is a family barbeque or a sunset dinner party. Enjoy your self-catered Greek breakfast or lunch gazing from above at the scenic views. View our self-catering collection to discover our wonderful villas. 

Corfu’s supermarkets, both large and small, provide an exceptional shopping experience, making self-catering holidays a breeze.

Diellas, located in Gouvia on the way from the airport, is one of the island’s larger supermarkets, offering a vast selection of fresh produce, local specialities, and everyday essentials. It’s a convenient stop for stocking up as soon as you arrive.

The Corfu Food Market is another gem, known for its wide variety of traditional Greek food, it’s perfect for finding unique ingredients to enhance your culinary adventures.

Nicolas Bakery in Kassiopi is also a must visit for its delicious fresh bread, pastries and traditional Greek treats. Its charming atmosphere and high-quality baked goods make it an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back!

Finally, Niko’s Supermarket, found on the main road before entering Kassiopi deserves some serious recognition for its abundance of traditional and familiar foods popular with visitors. The delivery service is the cherry on top, making it a simultaneously an efficient, vibrant and local Corfu supermarket.  

An Extra Touch

For guests seeking an extra special experience, we are proud to offer a range of villas with the option of additional cook services. So, if you want a night off cooking, or the whole week, our specialists are more than happy to arrange a private cook or chef service. View our cook service collection for more details. 

Additional Recommendations

Are there any delicacies people visiting should look out for? 

1. Baklava: No Greek holiday is complete without it! Comprising of layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, a classic Greek dessert. 

2. Local Cheese: Try local varieties like Graviera and Manouri, which are rich and flavourful, and are often used in local dishes.  

3. Sykomaitha: Fig cakes mixed with nuts, spices, and often wine, wrapped in fig leaves. 

4. Sofrito: A traditional Corfiot dish made with thinly sliced beef cooked in a white wine and garlic sauce, often served with mashed potatoes and rice. 

5. Bourdeto: A spicy fish stew made with scorpion fish, red pepper, and tomato sauce. This dish is influenced by the island’s Venetian heritage. 

What local foods should people look to bring home? 

1. Kumquat Products: Unique to Corfu, kumquat liqueur and sweets are popular souvenirs, showcasing the island’s distinctive citrus fruit. 

2. Olive Oil: Renowned for its high quality, Corfiot olive oil is an integral stable of traditional Greek cuisine and makes for a wonderful gift! 

3. Local Honey: Sourced from Corfu’s wildflowers, this honey is rich and aromatic, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to various dishes.  

4. Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary, as well as blends bring a taste of the island to your home cooking. 

5. Noumboulo: A traditional Corfiot cured pork delicacy, like prosciutto, seasoned with herbs and smoked, making it a flavourful addition to any charcuterie board.  

Our Villa Specialists are happy to book a range of experiences for you. If you're feeling inspired by these experiences and would like to speak with one of our Specialists, make an enquiry or browse our self catering collection today.