Arhontiko Taverna and Grill House, Gerani
This little gem of a taverna is a traditional, family run business that is open all year round for tasty grilled food and specials from the oven. Giorgios and his family give you a warm welcome to Arhontiko and his extensive and varied menu will ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Once again we were a fairly large group of 14 people, so we knew we would be putting Giorgios to the test behind his grill. As soon as we were seated we were treated to some fresh bread that arrived with our drinks order and the food order was taken. I am very pleased to say that Arhontiko serves Charma Beer on draught, this local beer is perfect for a warm summer evening and it is great to see it being served in more and more places around the area. The local wine here is also very nice and is very easily drinkable!
The decor is simple and traditional and only serves to highlight the tasty food that is served with pride. As we were waiting for our food it was nice to see the taverna slowly start to fill up with customers; tourists and locals alike, for the evening. It was also a nice surprise to see just how quickly the food for 14 people was cooked and served to our table. Top marks for speed of service.
There was a mix of orders from the grill; soutsoukakia (lightly spiced meatballs in a tomato sauce), pork chop, beef stifado, lamb chops, chicken fillets (with and without garlic sauce) and all came with either potatoes, vegetables or salad. Everything was cooked perfectly and special mention must be made of the stifado which was so tender and delicious that it was the stand-out dish of the evening. Indeed, when we had all finished there was nothing left on anybody’s plates, so we can safely say that everybody was more than happy with their meal.
Just before we had finished eating we were given a complimentary round of drinks from Giorgios which was a very nice gesture and was very warmly welcomed by everyone. You really do get a great service from everyone at Arhontiko and our meal was finished off with huge plates of fruit to share and individual crème caramels. We were also given a few carafes of raki to aid with digestion...at least that is what I have been told it does.
You can go to Arhontiko and have as cheap or as expensive a meal as you wish to indulge in. There is no difference in service whether you order a simple gyros pita to a kilo of lamb chops and everyone is treated with a warm welcome. The prices offer great value from a simple snack to a full blown meal and Taste Bud can only offer the highest recommendation that you visit for yourself and experience the great food and family run warmth that Archontiki exudes.
To find Arhontiki in Gerani, head for the Water Offices of DEGABA on the western outskirts. Arhontiko is the last taverna on the left as you are leaving the village with the offices of the water facilities on your right. There is plenty of parking outside the water offices where you can leave you car just off the road. Just follow your sense of smell as the aromas coming from the kitchen are fantastic.
PROS
Food is fantastic and great value
Charma on draught and very nice house wine
Good portion sizes to keep even the hungriest person happy
Friendly
CONS
None
OVERALL
Well worth a trip out to Gerani for a traditional grill house meal no matter what time of the year.