Restaurants

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TASTE

VOICE When you’re out and about in Athens, upload your favourite moments on instagram using the hashtag #athensvoice #tastevoice and let the world take a glimpse of the Athenian life!

From small family-run “tavernas” serving Greek meze and authentic grill houses with old money aesthetic scattered around the Athenian neighborhoods, to all day coffee spots and eateries, and from bistros and cocktail bars featuring creatively reinvented Greek staples, to rooftop bar-restaurants with a view to an instragram-feed sun plunging into the horizon and Michelin star winning fine-diners on the terraces of high-end Athenian hotels looking at a staggering, lit up Acropolis, Athens has generated a vibrant dine-out urban culture that proudly demonstrates the country’s lavish seasonal produce, its abundance of fundamental superfood ingredients and its rich heritage handed down from generation to generation. Exploring the diverse culinary universe of Athens is an exciting palate challenge for foodies, worth taken up.

By NENELA GEORGELE, KATERINA VNATSIOU

©luisa brimble/unsplash

Michelin stars for excellence are awarded to selected restaurants and Athens could not miss its share in top quality establishments.

SpondI With two Michelin stars, Spondi is considered the absolute best restaurant in Greece. French cuisine by chef Arnaud Bignon, luxurious environment and service which makes you feel like a king. 5 Pirronos Str., Pagrati,

+302107564021

BoTrInI’S Minimal environment in a beautiful old house with a cozy garden, and an excellent menu by famous chef Ectoras Botrini. Good value for money.

24b Vas. Georgiou B Str., Chalandri, +302106857324

HYTra Reach the 6xth floor of the Onassis Cultural Center, and you will find yourself in Hytra, where you can enjoy the great view along with great food. Mainly Greek cuisine. Offers a degustation menu and many choices for

different budgets. Syggrou- Fix, 107-109 Syggrou Ave., +302103316767

Varoulko SEaSIdE Lefteris Lazarou is the first Greek chef to acquire a Michelin star. He is one of the country’s most renewed chefs, with a loyal audience and a unique knowledge of seafood. In Varoulko, modern Greek cuisine meets the international gastronomy in an excellent venue with huge windows and a breathtaking view of the sea which lies in a 2 meters distance. 52 Akti

Koumoundourou Str., Mikrolimano, +302105228400

CTC Talented chef Alexandros Tsiotinis sings the praises of Greece’s gastronomic history in a way most intriguing

and originally unique. 15, Plateon Str., Athens, +302107228812

pElaGoS A panorama of Luca Piscazzi’s creative mindset on fish-oriented fine dining flawlessly executed with world celebrated French techniques. Four Seasons

Astir Hotel: 40, Apollonos Str., Vouliagmeni, +302108901192

The Bib Gourmand (in recognition of skillful cooking in reasonable prices) was awarded to Nolan

(31 Voulis str., Syntagma, +302103243545),

Oikeio (15 Ploutarchou Str., Kolonaki, +302107259216) Cerdo Negro 1985 (5, Vitonos str., Gazi, 2103470628). GB Rood Garden (1a Vas. Georgiou Str., Syntagma, +302103330000), Cookoovaya (2 Chatzigianni Mexi str., Hilton, +302107235005), Vezene (11 Vrasida str., Hilton, +302107232002), Sense (5 Dionissiou Aeropagitou Str., Akropoli, +302109200240), Aneton (19 Stratigou Lekka Str., Marousi, +302108066700), Athenee (9 Voukourestiou Str., +302103251430), Ergon House (23 Mitropoleos, +302100109090), Okio (33 Nikis Str., Syntagma, +302103311436), Aleria (57 Megalou

Alexandrou Str., Metaxourgeio, +302105222633),

Alficon (8 Ironda Str., Pagrati, +302169005059).

Greek TradiTional

Extra virgin olive oil, seasonal vegetables, greens and herbs, crispy pies and juicy roasts, fresh fish and seafood are some of the ingredients that have established the Greek cuisine as one of the best in the world. You will find it in tavernas and restaurants throughout the city. The best compliment a Greek traditional chef can hear: “This reminds me of the way my mother used to make this plate when I was little...

Avgo tou Kokora

Pinned on the Athenian map of gastronomy for almost two decades it has rightfully claimed the hearts of authentic taste aficionados, many of whom represent the city’s artistically inspired crowd. Let your senses revel in what Greek traditional cuisine really tastes like. From 1:00 at noon till 1:00 after midnight.

Metaxourgeio, 25 Myllerou Str., Metaxourgeio, +302177050103

Dexameni

One of the most historical “kafeneia” of Athens, open from 10:00 till very late, for coffee, meze, Cretan raki and delicious home-made halva with ice-cream. Map I15 Evangelismos, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki, +302107214368 €

aTHEnS HaS ITS oWn MaTSuHISa

Home of the world famous Nobu cuisine, Matsuhisa meets the highest standards for sushi. Highlights: black cod, nice cocktails, fantastic location on the sea front. Astir Palace Hotel, 40 Apollonos Str., Vouliagmeni, +302108960510 €€€€

3 restaurants which have a shopping section within

Have you ever been so excited by some dishes at a Greek Restaurant that you wished you could buy the ingredients and cook the dish at home? Now your wish can come true! Jams and delicious cold meats, cheeses from all over Greece, handmade pasta, nuts, honey, wines and spirits, all of which you can enjoy in the street as a snack, in your hotel, as a lunch or as a memorial when you go back home.

Ta karamanlidika tou Fani

The ideal place to taste tradition “meze” from all over Greece. Their products are excellent, you can dine in and/ or buy some of their products. In the centre of the premises is a glass display with dozens of cold meats, cheeses, sausages and spicy sausages (soujouki), for you to choose from. Omonia, 1 Sokratous & Εvripidou str., +302103254184, Mon-Sat: 12:00-23:00 (sales: 08:00-21:00) New: 119 Ermou Str., Monastiraki, +302103219119

Ergon

One of the most popular and successful chain of restaurants not only in Greece but also in London, Brussels, Miami. Here, the first foodie hotel in Athens. Ιt serves quality food but you can buy Greek products: olive oil, olives, honey, jams, pasta, sauces, syrups, herbs. Tip: Discover "Retire", a perfect terrace with Acropolis view on the last floor.

Syntagma, 123 Mitropoleos Str., +302100109090, 12 pm-12 am (store hours 09.00-01.00)

Mezeklikia tis Lachanagoras

In the very heart of the main vegetable market of Athens you are going to experience something truly unique… At “Mezeklikia tis Lachanagoras” you are going to learn what the greek word “mezes” really means. Here, all the dishes are made with greek products, that you can actually buy, since this restaurant is also a delicatessen! Discover greek wines, different kind of cheese and cold cuts, beers, sauces, handmade pasta and many more delicacies. Vegetable Market, Renti, +302104820020

Yoleni’s

With thousands of quality products from small producers from all around the region it’s an ambassador of Greek traditional flavors! The six-story building includes the coffee corner, with rare coffee varieties, pites and sandwiches, the restaurant with great meat options, Greek tavern, an olive oil bar, a cellar with fine Greek wine labels and a room for cooking classes. Syntagma, 9 Solonos Str., Kolonaki, +302122223623

Economou

Traditional tavern in a former working class neihbourhoud which is now a hip area crowded by young artists. Excellent house wine and high quality Greek cuisine. Closed Sun. 41 Petralona Troon & Kidantidon Str., +302103467555 €

Filippou

This historic restaurant will serve you “mama’s” food in very good prices. Closed Sat evening and Sun (also 8-23/8). Evangelismos, 19 Xenokratous Str., Kolonaki, +302107216390 €€

O Kalos Lykos

The «big bad wolf» came to life in 2015 in a wonderful street corner of Psyrri, only this time as the «good fellow» with a vibrant, happy and relaxing disposition. Enjoy awesome appetizers before reaching for the most inspiring dishes of fresh pork pan-fry, juicy steaks, crispy cheese croquettes or irresistibly spicy meatballs complemented with ice cold beers, raki or tsipouro. 2, Orygou, 10 Navarhou Apostoli Str., Psyrri, 6974320286, Fb: okalosolykos1

Klimataria

One of the oldest tavernas in Athens, a culinary landmark in the city center and in close distance to the central market place, Klimataria is hosted in a very old little house with an inner yard adorned with vast greenery and flowers and a lovely decoration. You’ll enjoy delicious greek traditional flavours, while the long menu includes all the classic and home-cooked style recipes: a great variety of fresh salads, soups, pies, legumes, lamb fricassee and its “signature” dish, pot-roasted lamb with potatoes. Pretty much a local's restaurant with a wonderful, homey ambiance, some evenings accompanied by the live tunes of Greek bouzouki. Good price list, friendly service. 2 Theatrou sq, +302103216629

Green Park

The long-awaited return of the historic «family entertainment» center in one of the biggest city parks, gives the Athenian food scene a fascinating boost. After being closed for many years and with a staggering restoration undertake that fully respected the rare architectural elements of its heritage structure, the landmarked complex is given a second life in the versatile dining world of the capital. The vast greenery of the park, the trees and the flowers and the vintage fountain create a serene, most refreshing and relaxing ambience for guests to enjoy a morning coffee, early day delicacies or a cool drink during sun down, while an array of exquisite Greek-oriented dishes reinvent its long-standing reputation through generations and generations of Athenians. Live music almost every night. Pedion tou Areos park, 22 Mavromateon Str., +302108832391

Kyveli

Keeping its retro “profile” that blends perfectly with the all so retro neighborhood, Kyvelli is popular among the locals. Happy interior adorned with old photographs and advertising posters of past decades. The menu, a refreshing culinary experience, includes salads, appetizers and delicious “meze”. Monday closed. 15 Eptanisou Str., Kypseli, +302108219406

To Kaplani

Owner Manolis Romanakis and chef Dimitris Skafidas design dishes that reveal centuries of Cretan culinary heritage, using top quality raw materials directly from the island! Try horta tsigariasta (wild greens cooked in olive oil) with fresh tomatoes, onions and lemon or the «gamopilafo» (a staple of Cretan cuisine, traditionally served at weddings!). The pie of Sfakia with thyme honey and cinnamon ice cream, at the end, is a must. 47, Efroniou Str., near Caravel Hotel, +302107211161, +302107211191, www.tokaplani.gr, Fb: tokaplani, insta: tokaplani

To Scholarchio tis Kypselis

Right on the bustling square of Agios Georgios, the “delicious” smells coming from the corner of Eptanissou street whet your appetite. The menu reveals the versatile temperament of traditional Greek food with an intriguing variety of seafood, meat and stews, plus beers and local spirits. 18 Eptanissou Str., Kypseli, +302108815820, FB: To Scholarchio tis Kypselis, Insta: to_scholarchio_tis_ kypselis

Open-air market On kallidrOmiOu street

The open-air market of Kallidromiou street is the perfect place to connect with the locals and get a worth remembering «taste» of Greek authentic. For a few hours every Saturday (starting at dawn and until 4 in the afternoon) the street is transformed with an assembly of counters and benches overwhelming of the fresh and low-cost seasonal produce of the country: veggies, eggs, cheese varieties, wines, fishes and seafood treasures. The bizarre hub is «orchestrated» by the loud voices of sellers, producers and vendors yelling out their «finest of quality». You should also expect some live tunes filling the air as it is accustomed for music bands with traditional instruments scattered along the way to play live music. Cold beers are served soon after…

Vlassis

Plain, simple space with an “intellectual” touch, but its passion for original Greek food remains intact. Splendid cooked dishes, even better grilled & fried seafood. Closed Sun (also 8-23/8). Megaro, 15 Meandrou Str., Ilissia, +302107256335 €€

Greek Creative

Greeks love their traditional homemade cuisine and renowned Greek chefs love to experiment with its recipes. What they come up with is some of the country’s most representative dishes served up “with a twist”. The finest restaurants of the Greek creative cuisine are...

Aleria

Α yard that resembles the french countryside. Two level building, elegant decoration, one of the best menus in Greek creative cuisine, chef Gikas Xenakis. You can also relax and have a drink. Closed Sun. Metaxourgio, 57 Meg. Alexandrou Str., +302105222633 €€€

Cookoovaya

Five excellent chefs (N. Karathanos, P. Koskinas, V. Liakos, S. Liakos, K. Zournatzis) have taken over the cuisine of this restaurant, making the whole city curious to try their dishes. Closed 10-17/8. Megaro, 2a Xatzigianni Mexi Str., Ilissia, +302107235005 €€€

Delta

Within the complex of Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, a fine dining restaurant of elegant aesthetics and culinary supremacy gives sustainability a whole new meaning. The menu, a gastronomic destination that fits its values of excellence, features conceptual cuisine flavors inspired by Greek tradition with a cosmopolitan twist, while providing for all tastes – protein, vegetarian and vegan. Its wine «cellar» arrays 685 labels of Greek and international vineries. The price

One of the newest additions to the city’s culinary scene gives you a homely feeling that «tastes» superb. You’ll try fruit wine from an elegant array of labels, traditionally made home bread, comfort food, small brewery beers and masterfully blended cocktail drinks. The

Industrial design with the long bar, an LocaLi indoors patio and a zero waste What its name suggests philosophy, stimulate the palette even is that you become a local further. 37 Agathodemonos Str., when hanging out in places you Kato Petralona, feel at home. Here you are, relaxed +302103421311 in its beautiful patio of cultural contrasts, the imposing figures of the Caryatids on the wall, feasting your senses with imaginative flavors and list starts at about 110 euros. signature cocktails, featuring a mix

Mondays closed. 364 Syggrou of Greek spirits. Open in the

Av., Kallithea, +302168091288 morning. Thisseio, 44 Sarri Str., Psyrri, Fita +302103250673 good modern Greek cuisine, emphasis is placed on quality ingredients, traditional dishes with a modern touch, a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Tables inside and outside on the pavement, make sure to book. Daily from noon, Sunday serving only midday. Evangelismos, 33 Arrianou Str., Pagrati, +302107223466 €€

Though it made its debut a few months ago in an off Broadway neighborhood of central Athens, it is already a culinary hangout with a devoted young crowd. The menu features alternative flavors that reflect the unwavering philosophy of its chefs-owners towards an inspiring experimentation with regional fresh products and ingredients. Chill out atmosphere, beautiful faces, among which some of the city’s most celebrated personalities. Good prices. 1 Dourm & 6-8 Kassamouli Str., Neos Kosmos, +302114148624

Soil

The old, urban mansion was given a tasteful refurbishment that complements the chef’s passion of infusing fine dining with regional flavors. The charismatic and awardwinning Tassos Mantis creates a truly traceable culinary experience with a farm-totable seasonal menu featuring delectable ingredients that come directly from his own farm. The beautiful yard with the orange trees pays homage to the inspiring philosophy. A 14 course degustation menu costs 85 euros. Sundays closed. 5, Ferekidou Str., Pagkrati, +302107513505

Vasilainas

This historic 100-year-old restaurant has catered for an all-star list of visitors who have passed through Greece – from Sofia Loren to Winston Churchill. Now in a new location, behind the emblematic Hilton, in a property that has been magnificently designed by the famous architects A. Kourkoulas - M. Kokkinou. Cuisine Greek, creative and unforgettable gastronomic experience, degustation menu and a la carte, wine cellar with the best of Greek and international vineyards. Reduced rates at noon. Evangelismos, 3 Vrassida Str., (behind the Hilton Hotel), +302107210501 €€€

Mediterranean

To Mavro Provato (Black Sheep)

One the city’s most loved restaurants, it fills quickly daily with Athenian crowds, actresses, screenwriters, artists and celebrities. Very

It

The “it” place to have a lunch break, the absolute meeting point for the locals. Combines the vibe of a modern restaurant with the casualness of a take away. Healthy and fresh food, natural juices, salads, soups, an alternative option for fast food. Open all day. Panepistimio, 29 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103631827, +302103635773 €€

Lyra

The restaurant is set in a beautiful neo-classical building in the «neighborhood of gods», surrounded by the unique appeal of the city’s past. In an elegant cascading table arrangement in the picturesque alley expect a display of contemporary Greek cuisine dishes based on premium quality ingredients. Live music and intriguing cocktail options lift the experience even higher. 12, Lysiou Str., Plaka, +302103229727

Vezene

One of the best restaurants in the city, located behind Hilton Hotel. It is always packed with afficionados of nouvelle cuisine. Enjoy the delicacies from Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Closed Sun. Evangelismos, 11 Vrassida Str., Hilton, +302107232002 €€€

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GB Roof Garden

Deluxe art deco interior and impeccable service. An excellent choice after shopping in what can only be branded as Athens’ most chic and historical brasserie. You’ll be sitting next to powerful businessmen, and journalists in search of their next story. Delectable mediterranean cuisine, amazing view. Syntagma, Grande Bretagne Hotel, Syntagma Sq., +302103330000 €€€€

Hytra

One of the most celebrated restaurants of the city and privileged with an astonishing view of Athens, especially when night falls. 107-109 Syggrou Av., Neos Kosmos, +302103316767

By ISABELLE CLAyTON

The Greek meat-lover’s trifecta! But are these meals truly different from one another? Foreign travelers may be surprised to hear that there are many factors, such as cooking process and type of meat, that set them apart. It is possible for you to like Kebab, but not Souvlaki; Souvlaki, but not Gyro. For this reason, we present to you a run down on these three meat dishes, both to satisfy your carnivorous cravings, and to open up a whole new world for you within Athenian cuisine.

Souvlaki

A popular and inexpensive street food in Athens, Souvlaki denotes grilled chunks of meat on a skewer. Traditionally, is made with pork, however, it is becoming more and more common to find chicken or lamb Souvlaki. Souvlaki can also connote a type of sandwich, with skewered meat, tomatoes, onions, french fries, and sauce wrapped tightly within pita.

Kebab

Although traditionally a Turkish dish, ordering a Kebab in Athens will not get you the doner kebab you might be expecting. In Athens, Kebabs are made by forming spicy minced meat, usually lamb, but also chicken, pork, or beef, around a skewer, and grilling it. Kebabs are usually served with pita and a type of yogurt-based dipping sauce.

Gyro

The meat used for Gyros, usually lamb, is cut into thin pieces and layered around a large, vertical skewer. It is cooked incrementally as the skewer turns around a source of heat. When you order a Gyro, an assortment of crispy and juicy meat is cut from the outer edges of the large skewered mass, and placed within pita along with salad, tomatoes, tzatziki, and sometimes, french fries.

AvgotARAho (Grey Mullet Bottarga)

A delicacy of cured Grey Mullet Roe. Natural without preservatives, with high nutritional value and a pleasant, long-lasting aftertaste. It can be consumed in small slices as an appetizer, with freshly baked bread or with pasta.

La Suite Lounge

Eating by the Vertigo Pool is cool! Luxurious decoration, original Greek tastes. Nice view to the city and pleasant soundscape. BBQ on Mondays. Evangelismos, Hotel St. George Lycabettus, 2 Kleomenous Str., Dexameni, +302107416000 €€€

Mavili Beach

Seven stories above ground, high up on the terrace of Hotel Alexandros in the heart of the vibrant Mavili square, an almost cinematic set unfolds; a beautiful “sandy beach”, literally, you can drop your towel on, and a traditional tavern with the white washed Cycladic aura and authentic “meze”. Megaro Moussikis, 8 Timoleontos Vassou Str., Plateia Mavili, +302106430464

Nyx

Japanese fusion with a 360o view of the city’s miraculous history and urban culture. Located on the top floor of the Academias Hotel Athens, Nyx features top notch Japanese influenced flavors, masterfully combined with signature cocktails. Nyx, Academias Hotel, 38, Academias & Omirou Str., Athens, +302103670000

The Zillers

This year everybody is talking about The Zillers’ terrace. Lovely setting, outstanding view of the Acropolis, green scenery decoration. Open all day for coffee or drinks, snacks, special dishes and cocktails. Syntagma, 54 Mitropoleos Str., Syntagma, +302103222277 €€€

Fish

Dourabeis

An all-time classic and rightly famous. Fish cuisine of the highest standards. Akti Protopsalti 27, Piraeus, +302104122092 €€€

Istioploikos

A landmark of Mikrolimano overlooking the Saronic Gulf. In the evening it feels like you are at a beach bar. Modern, Mediterranean cuisine. The café looks like a boat deck. Akti Mikrolimano, Piraeus, +302104134084 -184, +306944915220 €€€

Jimmy and the Fish

It stands out among the tourist tavernas of Mikrolimano. Meeting point for a fish lunch by the yachts and fishing boats. 46 Akti Koumoundourou Str., Mikrolimano, +302104124417 €€€

Thalassinos

Athenians who love fish frequent this cozy place, which serves big or smaller fish in both creative and traditional way s in its lovely yard. Moschato, 2 Irakleos & Lisikratous Str., Moschato, +302109404518 €€

AMERiCAN WAY

T.G.I. Friday’s

Give some “flavour” to your evenings with appetizers and cocktails at happy hour prices. At TGI Friday’s you will find a variety of refreshing signature cocktails and straight drinks mixed by the greatest bartenders in the world. Kifissia: 35 Kolokotroni Str., +302106233947-8/ Kolonaki Syntagma: 2 Neofytou Vamva str., +302107227721/

Ambelokipi Ambelokipi: Kifissias & Alexandras, +302106475417-8/ Glyfada: 43 Lazaraki str., +302108982608-9/ Palio Faliro: Marina Flisvou, Pier One, +302109853281/ Agios Dimitrios The Athens Metro Mall: 276 Vouliagmenis Av., +302109717223/ Asteras Vouliagmenis: 40 Apollonos Str., +302108901625 €€

Bar restaurants

Balthazar

One of the most beautiful buildings in Athens, it attracts politicians, businessmen, artists, who enjoy their early meals & drinks. Mediterranean cuisine by top chef Christoforos Peskias and a beautiful garden. Ambelokipi, 27 Tsoxa & Vournazou Str., +3022106441215 €€€€

Eden’s Garden

Located in one of the most vivid neighborhoods of Athens, this club-restaurant is the hidden paradise of the city. You will enter an amazing garden, where you can taste fusion cuisine, drink an exceptional cocktail or even try hookah! 48 Triptolemou Str., Gazi, 6942252950

Efimerida ATH

The ambience, the interior, the music and the out-of-the ordinary flavors switch your mornings up a lot. In the morning for a lovely coffee and a selection of “voluptuous” breakfast and brunch dishes and later in the day for a lunch break, dinner, some drinks and cocktails listening to great music that gets louder as the

When you’re out and about in Athens, upload your favourite moments on instagram using the hashtag #athensvoice #tastevoice and let the world take a glimpse of the Athenian life!

night falls. Panepistimio, 6 Sina & Vissarionos Str., Panepistimio, +302103648077

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Athineon Politeia

Indulge in a rich breakfast or the exquisite flavors of authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by a selective variety of wines and signature cocktails. Your self-discipline over a delicious array of homemade desserts definitely poses an extra challenge. 1, Akamantos & 33, Apostolou Pavlou Str., Thissio, +302103413795, Fb: athinaionpoliteia, Insta: athinaion_politeia

F Bar

Just a stone’s throw away from the Acropolis, F Bar spreads its scenic vibes to a cool crowd of all ages flocking in awed by the fascinating volume of the majestic monument. Superb coffee blends, refreshing beverages, great cocktail drinks, premium spirits and a selective variety of wine labels. 29 Heraklidon Str., Thissio, +302130116173, Fb: rockbarathens, Insta: @Φ BAR

Iguazu

A panorama of latin-american flavors devised by the charismatic chef Yiannis Parrikos. Soak in the aromas of coffee in the morning complemented with exquisite brunch dishes and as the day pushes forward, sensations and tastes mingle in a menu most inspiring. 16 Laodikias & 1 Nimfeou Str., Athens +302107775225, iguazu.gr, Fb: iguazu.athens, Insta: @iguazu.athens

Nice N Easy

Displaying an elegant chic atmosphere, it has become the hottest meeting point for those strolling around the lively central streets of Kolonaki. The menu features an abundant selection of organic flavors, yummy simple delights, as well as original day dishes of legumes, pasta or meat, burgers and must-try bagels with salmon. 60 Omirou & Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103617201

Shakespeare in Love

The history of this 1897 stone building at Piraeus got swept away by love with the art of fine Mediterranean cuisine making. Enjoy exceptional coffee, freshly made juices and brunch in the morning and indulge in the Mediterranean breeze with ravioli with rooster and xinomyzithra cheese or grilled salmon with seasonal veggies in the evening. Over 25 labels of excellent wine and uniquely made cocktail. 3 Agiou Spyridonos Str., Piraeus, 2104131999, S.i.L Shakespeare in Love, @S.i.L Shakespeare in Love

French cuisine

L’ Abreuvoir

All time classic French cuisine, elegant and stylish. Enjoy the food in its beautiful garden – along side politicians and VIPs. Evangelismos, 51 Xenokratous Str., Kolonaki, +302107229106 €€€€

VeriTable

An aura of elegance surrounds this authentic bistronomie that honors the philosophy of the exquisite French gastronomic tradition. Chef-patron Alain Parodi and his wife Christine will spoil you with lip smacking dishes, French cheeses and cold cuts paired with excellent French wines - on the upper floor rests a collection of 2000 fine wine labels from France mostly, but also from Greece, Italy and Roumania. You’ll find it open on Saturday noons. Closed on Sundays. 8 A. Sikelianou Str., Neo Psychiko, +302111829109

italian

Aglio Oglio e peperoncino

Koulouria delight

Incredibly crunchy on the outside with an amazingly soft and slightly chewy centre. Koulouria are delicious Greek bread rings covered with toasted sesame seeds. It is the most popular street food one can find in Greece. And with good reason! When walking the streets of Athens you can’t miss the street vendors selling these popular sesame bread rings. These famous Greek Koulouria are probably the most popular breakfast for Greeks, along with a cup of coffee. You will love them with feta cheese or Graviera and Kalamata olives as a filling snack or cutting them in half crosswise, spreading with butter, honey or jam for breakfast. Simply delicious!

volume of the sacred Acropolis rock this beautiful place of minimal chic aesthetics fuses its menu with pure Italian quintessence. Choose among an intriguing variety of Italian antipasti, colorful salads and fresh handmade pasta prepared masterfully in its kitchen and topped with traditional Italian sauces; not to mention the delightful desserts. Closed on Mondays, only at noon on Sundays. Acropolis, 13 Porinou str., Acropolis, +302109211801

Cupola

Tastes from Italy with the best Italian chef Stefano Rossi, you will be amazed by his delicious carbonara. Also try authentic Italian pizza! On the list you will find a wide variety of Greek and Italian wines. Taste delicious cocktails from the most famous bartenders in the city. Next to Panathenaic Stadium, tables outside. Open from Tue to Sat 19.00-00.30. On Sun from 13.00-19.00,

13 Ephorionos Str., Pagrati, +302114117444 €€

Frankie

Borrowing the name from Frank Sinatra, Frankie stands out on one of the busiest streets of central Athens. Its menu brings the Italian finesse on a plate, with authentic Italian dishes created with regional products that emphasize its farm to table philosophy. Beautiful interior with vintage aesthetics and an open kitchen. Open daily from the morning hours for coffee, brunch or Italian snacks. Also an excellent list of Greek and Italian wine. 42 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103647052 €€

Pasteria (La)

Twelve restaurants all over the city. With a rich wine list and a tempting menu from all over Italy. Maroussi The Mall Athens: +302106198230, Kolonaki +30210 3632032/ Glyfada: +302108945085/ Kifissia: +302108085607/ Nea Smyrni: +302109319146/ Paleo Faliro: +302109858880/ Ambelokipi:+302106401480/ Agia Paraskevi: +302106019975/ Chalandri: +302106854210/ Kato Patissia: +302102236295 €€

Street Food

Everest

There’s one on every corner. A dazzling array of ingredients to choose from and make your own dream sandwich. The same applies for pies, salads, pastry, coffees, beverages. Those in the city’s centre are usually open 24 hours. €

Feyrouz

Mama’s food: delicious soups and excellent homemade lahmacun. Monastiraki, 23 Karori & Eolou str., Monastiraki, +302130318060 €

Hoocut

Our national street food, the “souvlaki”, redesigned by highly talented, Michelin starred Greek chefs (owners of some of the most popular high-end cuisines in Athens). Simply delicious, definitely traditional, altogether an epicurean delight. Monastiraki, 9 Plateia Eirinis, Central Athens, +302103240026

Mailo’s The Pasta Project

A rare blend of fresh pasta with the street food culture created right in front of you. Mailo’s open kitchen cooks daily three different kinds of pasta using only organic semolina and water. Choose your kind and move on with adding one of the ten different handmade, signature sauces - the “Truffle Mushrooms” with wild mushrooms and truffle oil is divine. 11 Athinaidos St., Agias Eirinis Square, mailos.gr, Fb: Mailo’s – The Pasta Project, Insta: @mailos_pasta

Microu Lee

Generous portions and very reasonable prices for Chinese food (the most expensive dish costs €4,90), the best comfort noodles in the world! Note this summer highlights: noodles with chicken and curry, won ton shrimps, fried rice with shrimps, beef soup, sweet potato salad and finally cheesecake with tofu. Omonia, 14 Stournari Str., Exarchia, +302103800672 €

Thess Bao

Fine dining inside a (bao) bun. Handmade fluffy buns filled with creative stuffing such as the marinated pork in honey and beer roasted for four hours in the oven before being pulled apart and crammed into the bun along with tomato, crispy onions and a cream of greek yogurt and celery. The menu continues with strikingly unexpected combinations. 30-32 Perikleous Str., Syntagma, +302103214717/ Thessaloniki: 3 Kalapothaki, 2310235225, 11 Lori Margariti, 2310235226, thessbao.gr, Fb: Thessbao, Insta: @thessbao

By YiANNis DiMOPOuLOs

©julia peretiatko/unsplash

Getting wine drunk on vacation without a care in the world is one of summer’s greatest pleasures and Greek culture might be the one to thank for such a fabulous tradition. It’s true. Greeks invented the so-called “symposia” (literally drinking parties with a couple of orgies involved) to honor Dionysus, the God of wine and mischief, hence Greece being considered one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, making its own wine for the past 6,500 years. Ever since the tourism boom in the country during the 1960s, a white wine called “retsina” became almost synonymous to Greek wine and Greece in general, due to its strong resin aroma . But there is far more than that for wine lovers. In recent years the wine industry in Greece has opened up to younger new participants. Charming wine bars are springing up everywhere, together with a generation of new winemakers, educated in France and the US, taking charge of existing wineries, introducing new methods and reintroducing old forgotten varieties. For many years now, top international varieties have been cultivated with great success. Top sommeliers, wine writers and traders have put Greece firmly on the global “wine map”.

3 wine trends in Greece

Like the rest of the world, in Greece as well there is a selective tendency for consumers when it comes to wine as they look for “special” ones which will offer a unique experience in the form of a bottle. Here are some of the Greek labels on the rise: Liatiko Amphorea (Douloufakis), Rhobola (Melissinos), Rhoditis (Tetramythos), Mystirio (Karamolegos), Orange Wine (Anatolikos), Orgion (Sklavou) Xinomavro Rosé (Oenos Nature).

Orange wines are also becoming more popular among the aspired wine consumers. To make orange wine you have to combine the ingredients of white wines and the process of reds. This means that this particular kind is made with white grapes varieties that ferment with their skin and seeds still on. The taste however has nothing to do with the regular white wines or the reds. It is unique. Sour and somewhat dry, fruity and strong. Some of the most promising Greek labels are: ΜΕΤΑ 2011, Pieria Eratini (Pieria Malagouzia), Mithymneon Portokali - Yiannis Lambrou (Lesbos Hydiriotiko), Tatsis Rhoditis (Goumenissa).

Tides have also turned for some rare Greek varieties, some of which we may have never heard before and some, lost in time and forgotten, have “flourished” again due to the efforts of devoted Greek winemakers. As such, it is worth looking for: Villana, Vidiano, Limniona, Liatiko, Kydonitsa, Plito, Mavrotragano, Monemvasia, Negoska.

Some of the best producers and their top wines are listed below. A bottle of good white wine in the liqueur stores costs between €15-25, and a bottle of red €20-40.

Wine reSto

By the Glass This hot spot for wine lovers offers one of the most updated and exciting wine lists in the city, in a cozy beautiful atrium. You may choose from 250 different wine labels including Greek and international varieties. More than 50 of them are served by the glass. They also serve coffee, spirits and food. From early in the morning till late at night. Syntagma, 3 G. Souri & Philellinon Str., +302103232560 €€

Heteroclito Wines from Greek producers, good prices and tasty side-dishes with cheese and cold cuts. Every day from 18:00 till late. Syntagma, 2 Fokionos & Petraki Str., +302103239406 €

Materia Prima This

authentic bar is always filled with happy faces appreciating a glass of good wine. The extensive wine list includes labels from celebrated Greek wineries as well as an excellent sample from wine producing regions around the world. If you fancy beer or spirits more, you’ll find the list updated for you too, on a weekly basis. Open from 17:00 in the afternoon. Mondays closed. 68 Falirou Str., Koukaki, +302109245935

Oinoscent This is one of the best places in the Historic Centre of Athens that offers a wide variety of fine wines from all over the world, from over a decade. Every single one of them is carefully selected by the hands of the two-time winner of Best Sommelier of Greece, Aris Sklavenitis. Syntagma, 45-47 Voulis Str., Athens, +302103229374

Warehouse Assemblage Just a few minutes from Monastiraki Square, this is one of the newest Athenian wine spots where you can taste a variety of Greek and International wines and also buy them. All of them pairing with the crafted dishes on their menu. Syntagma, 8 Mitropoleos Square, Athens, +302103253503

White varieties

Assyrtico: The finest white grape from the Island of Santorini, and possibly the cheapest top white wine in the world. Mineral with high acidity, ages well. Try to distinguish an aged assyrtiko to a Chablis Grand Cru. Malagousia: Aromatic, with a scent of ripe peaches, apricots and green pepper. Moschofilero: A sweet, aromatic grape, the Greek Gewurztraminer!

Red varieties

Agiorgitico: Rich, deeply coloured, ages well. Xinomavro: Greece’s answer to Barolo, needs time to develop.

Some of the top producerS

Aivalis, Alpha Estate, Antonopoulos, Arghyros, Biblia Chora, Boutaris, Driopi, Douloufakis, Gaia, Gerovassiliou, Hatzidakis,Hatzimichalis, Katogi Strofilia, Katsaros, Kir-Yanni, Manousakis, Mercouri, Papaioannou, Pavlidis, Samos, Sigalas, Skouras, Sklavos, Thimiopoulos, Tselepos.

my favourite

White wines

Alpha Estate: Sauvignon Blanc Antonopoulos: Chardonnay Anax Argyros: Vareli Assyrtico, Ktima Biblia Chora: Ovilos Boutaris: Kalisti Reserve Gaia: Τhalassitis, Wild ferment Assyrtico Gerovassiliou: Chardonnay, Malagousia Hatzidakis: Nihteri, Louros Katsaros: Chardonnay Kir-Yanni: Samaropetra Manousakis: Roussanne Mercouri: Malvasia Sigalas: Nihteri, Cavalieros Skouras: Viognier Eclectique Sklavos: Robola

Red wines

Aivalis: Monopati Alpha Estate: Xinomavro Unfiltered, Alpha 1 Antonopoulos: Nea Dris Avantis: Collection Syrah Biblia Chora: Ovilos Boutaris: Classic Grand Reserve, 1879 Driopi: Agiorgitico Gaia: Agiorgitico Gerovassiliou: Avaton, Syrah Karydas: Xinomavro Katogi Strofilia: Ktima Averof Kir-Yanni: Diaporos, Blue Fox Manousakis: Syrah Mercouri: Refosco Papaioannou: Mikroklima, Terroir Sigalas: Mavrotragano Skouras: Solera aged Labyrinth, Megas Oinos Thimiopoulos: New age Xinomavro Tselepos: Kokkinomylos

Sweet wines

Vinsanto: Sun dried grapes from Santorini. These wines have the complexity of olorosos and Tokajs. Top producers: Argiros and Sigalas. Mavrodaphne: Sweet fortified wines. Best old like Banyls. Muscat: Sweet wines from Samos island.

Good and fairly priced

Let us recommend to you some good and fairly priced Greek wines that are easy to pair, fine-bodied and naturally refreshing for an all-hours allure. Ktima Alpha: Malagouzia Zafirakis: Paleomilos Skoura: Armira Avantis: White Gaea: Moshofilero Semeli: Yiorti Tselepos: Mantinia Vivlia Chora: White Pavlides: Thema White Kyr-Yiannis: Samaropetra Theodorakakos: Kydonitsa