Dinner at Koilhada
22 August 2013
G. Hotter.
So far this year we have been to 23 Greek islands, most of which I'd never heard of beforehand, like Arki, Fourni and Ouinoussa. We've also explored the Gulf of Volos, and I recently had an article published in Practical Boat Owner about this part of our trip (September 2013 issue).
One bonus of writing this blog is that we have met some new sailing folks like ourselves, who have seen and read my musings. In Koilhada we arranged to meet up with Mark and Amanda Blomley, a lovely couple, who have recently bought Leeisha, a wonderful yacht on which they plan to liveaboard full time in the future.
I wanted to tell you about the amusing meal we had with them one evening in Koilhada.
A taverna had been recommended to them, so we chose a table outside. The girl quickly brought our drinks order, along with the customary basket of bread, and then she brought us a small dish of sardines in oil, and a taramasalata dip. We hadn't ordered this, so we were a bit reticent about tucking in, but we relented, and thought it must be a complimentary starter. Then two more dishes were brought - some delicious mixed grilled vegetables, and a cheesy dish. "They've got our order mixed up with another table", we said to each other. We furtively looked around to see if anyone was pointing at our table, or telling us to stand away from the food, but all seemed well, so we decided to eat the food, as it was their mistake, not ours. Then more plates arrived! A very delicious octopus in wine and oil sauce, and some fried courgettes and aubergines. There must be some mistake, surely? Then the girl arrived with a tray of beetroot salad! By then we were feeling really guilty, so we ordered more wine and mentioned to the passing restaurant owner that we had not ordered any of the dishes. "It is all for you", he said,"it is how I run my taverna, I bring you a taste of Greek food". More dishes duly arrived.
Phew. We thought we had eaten someone else's meal! And at the end we were allowed to choose another dish ourselves, so we chose the fresh squid, fried in a light batter. And another carafe of wine. The whole meal was only just over 50 euros for the four of us, including wine, and one of the best meals we'd had. But we didnt think we would go back the next night, as surely you would get the same food over again?