The Traditional Café of Lefkada
The traditional café of Lefkada or in Greek, Kafenia were the meeting points of men in every Greek village. The name Kafenio derives its name from the word ‘kafe’ which means coffee in Greek. However, in Kafenio, they didn’t serve only coffee. In particular, you could taste and share there with a good company the best local meze. The name ‘meze’ means snack which in kafenio is usually local salami or sausage, local cheese or feta, tzatziki, seafood, tomatoes, olives, dry nuts, etc. Today, only a few original Kafenia (traditional café) are left in Greece. Kafenio was also a little parliament as the men of the village used to speak about politics. For this reason, political quarrels were not so difficult to happen. However, Kafenio was always a place of joy where men used to play cards, to discuss politics and football, to hear music, to snack, and to drink ouzo or any other alcohol drink.
Original Kafenia Left on Mountainous Lefkada
The original Kafenia that are left in Lefkada are located in secluded villages on the mountainous part of the island. In particular, the majority of men have left abroad decades ago to find better luck for their lives. So, usually, only older people who remained forever on the island can be seen there. Starting from Karia, a popular mountainous village of Lefkada, you can enjoy your Greek coffee or meze at one of its Kafenia on its picturesque square. The next one should be the Kafenio at the little square of Eglouvi village which is right after Karia. Likewise Karia you can enjoy your coffee under the shadow of the plane trees. Also, in Eglouvi you can taste or buy the best lentils of Greece! Another traditional Kafenio is at the main square of Kavalos village which is also worth visiting for its sunset view. Finally, on your way back to the capital of the island make a stop at the traditional café at the picturesque square of Lazarata village.
The Oldest Kafenio of Lefkada
One of the oldest Kafenia of Lefkada is “Americanos” at the end of Pefaneromenis Street. It has been a family-run Kafenio since the decade of 60s! It was famous and still is for its handmade sumada refreshment and its delicious handmade fried potatoes! In particular, it’s an ideal place for families with kids.
Finally, we are looking forward to making you feel like a local in beautiful Lefkada! We always love hosting you in LEFKASEABNB seafront Guesthouses on Agios Ioannis beach every summer!