Athens’ Grande Bretagne Spa was named Greece’s best hotel spa 2021 at the 7th World Spa Awards 2021, an international event that celebrates and rewards excellence in the spa and wellness industry.
Like entering another dimension, one where the lavish décor and top-notch pampering expertise is truly unparalleled, the GB Spa is by far Athens’ best (and one of the most expensive!).
GB Spa Indoor pool
Guests are encouraged to relish the essence of the spa (‘salute per aqua’ or health by water) experience by connecting to the water element first – starting with a leisurely dip in the ozone-rich pool with curative thick sea salt and following that with an excellent choice of around five steam rooms, such as the Herbal Suite, where you can meditatively inhale the essences of Greek organic herbs like thyme, oregano, and lavender, or the Amethystos Grotto, where the walls are covered in a mosaic of amethyst stones and the steam is infused with pure eucalyptus oils.
Ice fountain
Outside the steam rooms are showers with six different settings, from Tropical Rain to Summer Shower, as well as two marble foot baths with hydromassage. ESPA products are used in all treatments, such as high-tech facials and massages, among which are deeply restorative, two-hour-long Ayurvedic rituals, the hot-stone Balinese massage, salt scrubs, and slimming, detoxifying or soothing body wraps.
For instant beautification, the Spa Manager recommends the Signature GB facial, Prickly Pear Luxury Facial inspired by the 15th-century Japanese Kobido lifting massage.
A: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Vasileos Georgiou A 1, Syntagma Square
Athens is home to hundreds of great restaurants and if you are planning a trip to the Greek capital and looking for a few culinary gems that are leading the way in haute cuisine, we’ve put together a list of the Top 20 gourmet restaurants in Athens that have received Michelin distinction in various categories.
Athens culinary scene is thriving and there are now two restaurants in Athens with 2 Michelin stars, three restaurants with 1 Michelin star, another three gained a Bib Gourmand and 12 have received a Plate Michelin. No matter how long you’re in Athens, where you’re staying, or what you may be craving for your next meal- they are all well worth a visit- and we highly recommend you bookmark this list!
Spondi | 2 Michelin Star
Being named Greece’s leading French restaurant, since it first opened in 1996 it has stood out for its innovative and creative approach to cooking and magnificent food presentation. Featuring two lovely courtyards and two stunning dining rooms, the award-winning chefs create dishes using fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients; and there’s also an impressive Greek, French and Italian wine list to choose from. Signature dishes: Langoustine with Eucalyptus, Tapioca and Radish, Challans duck with Carrot, Pine and Praline and for dessert- Coffee with Lemon Thyme and Hazelnut.
A: 5 Pyrronos, Pangrati
Botrini’s | 1 Michelin Star
Botrini’s is a modern, creative, Greek-Mediterranean restaurant that’s elegant, stylish, and features a large garden with large white rotundas. Since it opened in 2014, the restaurant has received a Michelin Star seven times for its ambitious menu, professionalism, and ultra-creative high-end flavours. Signature dishes: Swordfish Carpaccio ‘Fishermen Style’, Milk-fed Lamb with Aubergine and Fig Pie; and for dessert try the Peach with Champagne and White Chocolate.
A: Vas. Georgiou B, 24 b, Halandri
Hytra | 1 Michelin Star
Modern Mediterranean Hytra, is located in the Onassis Cultural Centre. In 2020, the restaurant received another second Michelin star and take note that it is normally located on the sixth floor but during the warmer month it moves to the scenic seventh-floor rooftop- offering diners majestic views of the Acropolis and Mount Lycabettus. Signature dishes: Tomato, Watermelon, Strawberry and Sweet Alyssum, Cod with Ramson Capers, Kombu and Juniper and for dessert- Lemon with Basil, Vanilla Biscuit and Olive Oil Ice Cream.
A: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 107-109, Athina
Varoulko Seaside | 1 Michelin Star
This leading seafood restaurant located in Piraeus is a fine dining experience, where guests can taste quality seafood cuisine prepared by the famous chef Lefteris Lazarou while enjoying the picturesque views of the Mikrolimano Marina. Signature dishes: Red Mullet Tartare with Florina Pepper, Raisins and Bottarga Powder, Grouper with Beets, Broccolini, Black Garlic and Béarnaise Sauce; and for dessert- Cherry Ganache with Pistachio Mousse, Hibiscus and Kaimaki Sorbet.
A: Akti Koumoundourou 54, Piraeus
Cookoovaya | Plate Michelin
This Micheli recommended restaurant features an open plan kitchen and a beautiful modern dining room. Cookoovaya’s five local chefs- Periklis Koskinas, Manos Zournatzis, Vaggelis Liakos, Spyros Liakos, Nikos Karathanos use the freshest seasonal and local ingredients to create stand out dishes without losing authentic Greek tastes and flavours.
A: Chatzigianni Mexi 2a, Athina
GB Roof Garden | Plate Michelin
Located at one of the city’s most prestigious, elegant and imposing hotels, the Grande Bretagne. GB’s pronounced Mediterranean influences are presented in haute cuisine compilations. Flavours are fresh, rich and true to their quality ingredients. Don’t expect experimental or highly gourmet gastronomy, although creativity and finesse are definitely not lacking.
A: Vasileos Georgiou 1 A, Syntagma (8TH Floor)
Electra Rooftop | Plate Michelin
On the 10th floor of the popular Electra Metropolis Hotel, you’ll find one of the very best rooftop terraces in Athens, which is usually buzzing with both local and foreign guests tasting Mediterranean flavours.
A: Mitropoleos 15, Athina
2 Mazi | Plate Michelin
This creative Greek cuisine restaurant is located on the outskirts of Plaka. Featuring a charming alfresco area, the contemporary Greek cuisine dishes are made from seasonal and local produce. There is also a good selection of local wines by the glass.
A: 48 Nikis Street, Athens
Sushimou | Plate Michelin
Chef-owner Antonis Drakoularakos, trained in Tokyo to master Japanese cuisine and this amazing eatery offers the finest of what’s available at the fish market that day. It’s a tiny 12-seater eatery and although there is a menu, Antonis prefers his diners allow him to choose, according to their preferences.
A: 6 Skoufou, Athens
Alficon | Plate Michelin
Located within a charming neoclassical building on Ironda Street, two young and talented chefs Elvi-Dimitris Zymba and Nikos Vorias create a short seasonal menu featuring contemporary Greek dishes that are served on a pretty pavement terrace. Note, there’s also a good organic Greek wines list to choose from.
A: 8 Ironda, Athens
Birdman | Plate Michelin
This cool Japanese eatery serves great noodles, meat plates, beef nigiri and other enticing snacks that are paired well with their lush cocktails.
A: 35 Voulis, Athens
Ergon House | Plate Michelin
Located at the world’s first-ever “foodie hotel”, Ergon House is not only a wonderful agora filled with local artisan produce but also a great place to taste simple, Mediterranean dishes using local, seasonal produce. The enticing menu includes small bites, sharing boards and generous main dishes.
A: 23 Mitropoleos, Athens
Sense Restaurant | Plate Michelin
Located on the splendid rooftop of Athens Was Hotel, Sense offers majestic views from two beautiful dining areas (indoor and outdoor). With an open kitchen, you can watch Chef Charalambopoulos prepare his creative and seasonal Greek dishes.
A: 5 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens
CTC | Plate Michelin
Taste eye-catching dishes from award-winning chef, Alexandros Tsiotinis, and his talented team who like to push the boundaries. Choose between three surprise tasting menus with a modern blend of Greek and Gallic flavours.
A: 14 Oumplianis, Athens
Vezene | Plate Michelin
This popular steakhouse is a contemporary eatery that serves wood-fired Greek regional plates and seafood, plus a Sunday roast menu. One of the most popular items on the menu is the mouthwatering mini Wagyu Burger (try to stop at one!)
A: Vrasida 11, Athens
Oikeio | Bib Gourmand
Located in Athens’ chic Kolonaki neighbourhood, you can choose to eat indoors (on two levels) or outside. Serving amazing homestyle dishes made using locally sourced produce, this modern Greek taverna is like a cosy Parisian bistro in the heart of Athens.
A: Ploutarchou 15, Athina
Aneton | Plate Michelin
In 2005 Dimitris Fotopoulos first opened Aneton’s doors in a quiet northern suburb of Athens and after huge success, 15 years later, moved to the Historic Centre of Athens becoming a local and international visitors favourite. Expect a seasonal menu that is Mediterranean- inspired in summer, and in winter features traditional stews and casseroles.
A: 3 Navarchou Nikodimou, Athens
Nolan | Bib Gourmand
Greek-Japanese chef Sotiris Kontizas is the brainchild behind an unfussy yet sophisticated list of dishes that Michelin has awarded with the Bib Gourmand. The ambience at Nolan is modern, upbeat and vibrant, the flavours are memorable and sometimes very exciting, and the service is fast and professional.
A: Nikis 31-33, Syntagma
7 Food Sins | Bib Gourmand
A gourmet Greek Gastro Pub in the heart of Plaka, the most historic Athenian district! Gourmet dishes created by awarded chef Dimos Samourakis. 7 Food Sins offers a distinguished atmosphere and exquisite Greek dishes.
A: Plateia Filomousou Etaireias 1, Athina
Funky Gourmet | 2 Michelin Star
Having been labelled the best restaurant in Greece on many occasions, Funky Gourmet is a contemporary Greek restaurant that is loved for its innovative dishes delivered as 3 multi-course tasting menus, which change regularly, depending on available seasonal ingredients. Currently relocating (rumoured to be at Athens Hilton Hotel) local and international visitors are eager for the re-opening (watch this space).
Athens’ luxurious and famous Hotel Grande Bretagne has opened a stunning new outdoor all-day lounge, welcoming guests into its “secret garden”.
On the first floor of the Hotel Grande Bretagne, you will find an oasis, which is in the heart of the city, however here you feel as though you are miles away from the buzzing capital.
Here you can take in the surrounding olive trees, lush greenery, and pretty flowers, at what has been named “The Atrium of Alexander’s Lounge”.
Describing it as “the most elegant summer city escape”, the Hotel’s management says guests can, “Savour a flavourful menu inspired by Latin America, created by our Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis, and his talented culinary and pastry team.”
The casual menu, which is ideal for a late lunch or light dinner, includes Spicy Veggie Taco, Chicken Tortilla Wraps, Prime Beef Burger, and finish off with a Bitter Chocolate Tart.
It’s the perfect place to catch up with a partner or group of friends, where you can also enjoy one of the impressive wines or lush cocktails made by the talented barmen.
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Street, Athens
With so many amazing rooftop bars and terraces around the city- serving elegant cocktails and offering splendid views of the Acropolis- we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite spots in town to unwind!
Galaxy, Hilton
This sophisticated and cool rooftop bar located on top of Hilton Athens is one of the most popular spots to grab a cocktail in the Greek capital. From the open-air terrace, you can enjoy stunning views of the ancient Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill along with (what feels like) the complete Athens skyline. Upscale in style and decor but laid back in vibe, here you can enjoy a bar menu along with delicious signature cocktails and a wide selection of wines.
A: Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 46, Athina
The Zillers Roof Garden
The Zillers Roof Garden Bar has been awarded as one of the best bars in Greece for 2020. Set at the top of the stunning hotel, it’s open from the morning where you can enjoy brunch through to midnight for after-dinner drinks.
A: Mitropoleos 54, Monastiraki
Bios
This part cultural centre/ part rooftop bar is ideal for creative and artsy types. Sit back on one of the lounge chairs and sip on a refreshing cocktail with interesting ingredients including ones that feature ice cream!
A: Pireos 84, Kerameikos
Hytra Roof Garden
A unique outdoor setting, with a panoramic view of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and the city skyline- it’s set on the seventh floor of the Onassis Cultural Center. The barmen here create unique cocktails, using freshly squeezed fruit juices and handmade syrups and liqueurs, based on old traditional recipes.
A: Onassis Cultural Center, Leof. Andrea Siggrou, Athens
City Zen
One of the newest rooftop spots in town, this gorgeous terrace in the heart of the historical centre of Athens has breathtaking Acropolis views. Housed in the top two floors of a renovated building of Athens, it’s the ideal spot to catch up with friends.
A: Aiolou 11, Athina
A for Athens
This is by far one of the local favourites in town where the talented mixologists prepare fabulous cocktails including a Spicy Margarita and a Passion Caramel Calypso.
A: Miaouli 2, Athina
Tudor Hall, King George II Palace Hotel
Located on the 7th floor of the famous King George II Palace Hotel, the rooftop offers a fantastic view of the historical sites of the capital. This rooftop bar offers well-made signature cocktails along with an impressive wine list. Tip: dress elegantly.
A: Vasileos Georgiou A 3, Athina
NEW Art Lounge
Head to the 7th floor of the hotel to sip on superb cocktails; accompanied by panoramic city views. Seating comes both on the al-fresco terrace, as well as inside the comfy lounge, where you are surrounded by over 2000 art books.
A: Navarcou Nikodimou, Syntagma 1, Athina
Anglais
Located in Monastiraki, this two-floor bar –the top one is an astonishing roof garden– offers not just drinks, food and coffees all day long but also breathtaking views.
A: Kirikiou 6, Athina
Air Lounge Roof Bar
A modern and stylish rooftop terrace with a stunning swimming pool, it’s perched on the 9th floor of a chic hotel. Here you’ll find a large selection of signature and vintage cocktails along with an impressive wine list.
A: Sofokleous 26, Athina
M Bar
On the 10th floor of the popular Electra Metropolis Hotel, you’ll find one of the very best rooftop terraces in Athens, which is usually buzzing with both local and foreign guests.
A: Mitropoleos 15, Athina
360 Cocktail Bar
The hotel’s cocktail bar in downtown Athens is set on the roof garden and invites guests to enjoy signature cocktails with memorable views of Acropolis- and breathtaking sunsets- sigh!
A: Ifestou 2, Athina
Penthouse 21
Perched on the 21st floor of the President Hotel Athens, this is not only the highest hotel rooftop bar in Athens but in all of Greece. Sophisticated and stylish in vibe, the rooftop bar has a large selection of cocktails and other drinks.
A: Leof. Kifisias 43, Athina
Thissio View Cocktail Bar
A short stroll from Monastiraki Square, this rooftop is extra special at sunset and a great spot to meet up with friends or that special someone for dinner and drinks.
A: Apostolou Pavlou 25, Athens
Point A
A favourite amongst locals, Point A is known for its fabulous ‘Tapas Cocktails’ as here you are always served a treat with your drink!
A: Rovertou Galli 4a, Athina
Retirè, Ergon House
Retirè is a new addition to the Athenian rooftop scene and the drinks menu has something for everyone. Known for their great cocktails, Retirè also has an impressive range of Greek wines and local beers.
A:23, Mitropoleos Street, Athina
Hotel Novotel
Located on the top floor of the Novotel, the rooftop bar offers majestic 360-degree views of the Lycabettus Hill, the Acropolis and the city skyline. Here you can sit back and enjoy the chill-out music and endless cocktails.
A:4, Michail Voda Street, Athina
Herodion Hotel
Set on the top of the Herodion Hotel, you can enjoy a wide range of inventive cocktails, plus Mediterranean and Greek gourmet dishes.
A: Rovertou Galli 4, Athina
Couleur Locale
An elevator will take you to the 3rd floor of this buzzing all-day bar-restaurant. It’s a go-to spot for locals who gather here for a drink- with a front view of the Acropolis.
A: Normanou 3, Monastiraki
The GB Roof Garden Restaurant and Bar
Located on the 8th floor of the famous Hotel Grande Bretagne, this is the perfect spot to sip on a glass of wine with a full view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon; as well as Lycabettus Hill and the Doric Greek Parliament at Syntagma Square. Tip: dress code is smart casual- no beachwear allowed.
How often have you walked into a hotel room and wanted to know where the pillow cases are from? Or had a drink at the lobby bar and – before you’ve even finished your gin and tonic – lifted up the glass looking for the name of the brand?
If you would like to include some luxurious interiors and decor to your home- from bath and bed sets to coffee tables and teacups- here are a few chic pieces found in some of Greece’s leading hotels that you can now display in your own abode!
With four boutique hotels in the Greek capital alone, COCO-MAT is all about offering style and comfort, especially when it comes to their guests’ sleep. This unique brand is also one of the country’s leading producers of handcrafted beds and you can choose from a range of their locally made mattresses and headboards that are all made in Northern Greece, from locally sourced materials including wood, wool, cotton, and seaweed.
An iconic hotel set on the glamorous Athens Riviera, Astir is nothing less than pure luxury. Chances are as soon as you check-in, quite a few pieces will catch your eye, and what stands out for us are the bedsheets that not only look stylish but also offer a decent night’s sleep. These crisp cotton sheets and duvet covers come with the hotel’s discreetly embroidered logo, and the soft feather pillows are available too.
This bohemian boutique hotel overlooking the Mykonian sea combines Cycladic curves and nature-inspired interiors. Throughout the gorgeous spaces, you will find plush sofas, mix-and-match cushions, shelves full of cookbooks and ceramics that you can easily picture in your own home. And from velvet armchairs and brass drinks trolleys to luxe sofas and coffee tables, all the staples of the retro interiors found here can be sourced from Soho Home.
Known as one of Greece’s most luxurious hotels, this wellness retreat offers an exclusive and decadent experience, as Amanzoe’s sleek look is second to none. One of the best experiences during your stay here will no doubt be centred around the spa, where you can completely relax and unwind. And now you can have the ultimate at-home spa experience with Aman skincare range, which includes Purifying Auric Cleanse Bath Salts, Nourishing Golden Body Serum, Nourishing Body Mist, and Grounding Smoked Body Butter.
This 18th Century landmark is unquestionably Athens’ most luxurious hotel. Immaculately restored to the height of its old-world grandeur, it is perfectly located at Syntagma Square, in the heart of the city. Here you can wine and dine with uninterrupted views of the Parthenon and if you would like to add some Grande Bretagne glamour to your next dinner party you can choose from a range of their drinking glasses, or pick up a few pieces such as candles, infusers, as well as tea sets.
Ikastikies is a Cycladic-style boutique hotel that is charming and cozy, and as soon as you lay your head down on their soft pillowcases, you will no doubt want to sleep on them time and time again. Made of natural fabrics – these silk pillowcases are inspired by Santorini’s black volcanic stones and the island’s sugar-cubed white-washed homes.
Nothing can soothe your body, mind, and soul like a good dose of pampering. We visit the best spas in the heart of the city.
Over the last few decades, Greece has developed a notable and highly respectable wellness scene, with spas and holistic centres now able to compete with some of the best of their kind in the world. Offering cutting-edge treatments and using excellent designer product lines, with complex and imaginatively decadent treatments for the body, soul, and face, these bliss centres can offer the most gratifying gift any tired being could wish for during the high-stress- any other time of year. Let’s face it – nothing beats the experience of walking into a place feeling foggy-headed and bedraggled, only to step out one, two, maybe even five hours later feeling and looking completely renewed. The effects may fade after a few days, but the memory of how lovingly and expertly every inch of you was handled, of the pacifying and luxuriant environment, meditative lighting, deep heart-opening fragrances, and tranquil sounds will not ever leave you.
As a pampering freak, I have cunningly made it my life mission to discover the best of what the world has to offer in terms of therapies, treatments, and holistic healing methods. In travels to Mexico, Japan, and Southeast Asia as well as throughout Greece, finding real healing – from backstreet miracle workers and anomalous shamans to highly trained teachers and sophisticated therapists at uber-luxurious wellness paradises – has been a serious and fascinating path of study for me. To guarantee you will enjoy your spa experience during your time in central Athens, here are my top three selections.
Hammam Baths
The only one of its kind in the heart of the Greek capital, the Turkish-inspired baths in historical Thisseio offer a true getaway from contemporary urban reality. Guests usually start with the Hammam, a circular, white marble steam room where, wearing nothing but your ‘pestemal’ traditional hammam towel you can spend as long as you like sweating it out, alleviating yourself every so often from the heat by pouring cool water over yourself from a bronze basin. There are many options for hair, face, and body treatments and therapies to follow, in which the massage therapists useblack or olive paste soap, Dead Sea mud, the exfoliating ‘ketseas’ natural bristle brushes, and other traditional Turkish goodies to enhance the pampering. Before returning to reality, you can enjoy sipping herb tea and munching on Turkish delight in the relaxing communal area.
A: 17 Aghion Asomaton & 1 Melidoni, Athens
GB Spa
Like entering another dimension, one where the lavish décor and top-notch pampering expertise is truly unparalleled, the GB Spa is by far the city’s best (and one of the most expensive!). Guests are encouraged to relish the essence of the spa (‘salute per aqua’ or health by water) experience by connecting to the water element first – starting with a leisurely dip in the ozone-rich pool with curative thick sea salt and following that with an excellent choice of around five steam rooms, such as the Herbal Suite, where you can meditatively inhale the essences of Greek organic herbs like thyme, oregano, and lavender, or the Amethystos Grotto, where the walls are covered in a mosaic of amethyst stones and the steam is infused with pure eucalyptus oils. Outside the steam rooms are showers with six different settings, from Tropical Rain to Summer Shower, as well as two marble foot baths with hydromassage. ESPA products are used in all treatments, such as high-tech facials and massages, among which are deeply restorative, two-hour-long Ayurvedic rituals, the hot-stone Balinese massage, salt scrubs, and slimming, detoxifying or soothing body wraps. For instant beautification, Spa Manager Anne Speck recommends the Signature GB facial, Prickly Pear Luxury Facial inspired by the 15th-century Japanese Kobido lifting massage.
A: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Syntagma Square
Aegeo Spa
Based in Crete, Aegeo Spa magnetizes the achy-limbed in all forms at its various spa centres in Athens, located at the Electra Palace and Electra Metropolis Hotels, as well as across the St George Lycabettus Hotel. It welcomes guests for “flash” treatments – from a deep back and neck massage to a glow-inducing facial – as well as determined day guests who have made serious recovery their mantra. The modern and elegant spa inspires in clients a real sense of trust via its warm and friendly staff, expert treatments, and excellent Babor products, as well as products that originate in Crete, such as olive oil and raki (distilled grape alcohol), both of which are used in the super-relaxing signature Cretan Massage. Another special treat at Aegeo is the Ancient Greek Massage, based on ancient healing principles as taught by Hippocrates and including circulation-boosting and exfoliating skin brushing with a horse-bristle brush, cupping, and warm olive oil for intense muscle relaxation. Aegeo’s most unique therapy by far is the Wish Massage, a four-hand massage in which the client makes a wish before the therapy, that the two masseurs focus on throughout the treatment. Aegeo’s menu includes a variety of effective beauty therapies too, from microdermabrasion using precious stones and masks with gold to the instantly brightening Collagen Booster facial.
Few things are more delightfully decadent than catching up with good friends over a cup of tea. From hotel restaurants to proper teahouses, here’s where to go on the weekend (or any day of the week really) for the best tea Athens has to offer!
Grande Bretagne Hotel
The ultimate “proper” English afternoon tea drinking ritual can be enjoyed in the polished Winter Garden City Lounge of Athens’ plushest hotel. The service is set for two and you can choose from a variety of 16 classic and lesser known tea blends. Friendly to the philosophy expressed by the Dowager Countess (so exquisitely played by Maggie Smith) in Downton Abbey, “nothing succeeds like excess”; and fully honouring authentic the British high tea tradition, your blend of choice will be served in an elaborate China teapot and cups along with warm scones and fresh clotted cream, to be topped with the hotel’s rich marmalades; fluffy white finger sandwiches filled with cucumber or egg mayonnaise with cress or smoked salmon, vibrantly coloured macarons, profiteroles and other pastries.
A:1 Vasileos Georgiou A’, Syntagma Square
“A woman is like a teabag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
To Tsai
With an award winning architectural design (architect Giorgos Batzios was awarded the European Architecture Awards for his design in 2017), To Tsai serves and sells tea varieties from around the world in pots relevant to where the tea comes from – Japanese tea is served in cast iron pots, Chinese tea in clay pots from Yixing and other teas in porcelain pots. Over 500 varieties imported from tea-producing countries by Mlensa Hellas are served in the warm yet minimal environment. Soft lighting concealed behind rows of timbre panels, (“to resemble a sunrise”, the architect has said) creates a Zen Japanese vibe that enhances the feeling of restoration. To Tsai also serves a high quality selection of light meals such as freshly made salads, eggs Benedict and quiches as well as desserts, including vegan options. A great option for a business brunch.
A: Alexandrou Soutsou 19, Kolonaki
“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.” C.S. Lewis
Petite Fleur
Now with three stores in Athens (Kolonaki, Pangrati and Halandri), this cozy cafe serves around 25 varieties of ethically sourced tea blends in a colourful, stylish environment. With a mix of old school charm and a playful vintage theme (a piano, ‘60s vinyl records, an old record player, faux early-19th Century tiled floor, a jazz music soundtrack and furniture reminiscent of the Belle Epoque in Paris) it serves heartwarming teas such as Ceylon Black Wood with orange peel and cinnamon stick, green gun powder and Kusmi, as well as a delectable variety of hot chocolate and coffee beverages, always accompanied by delicious desserts and satisfying snacks. The perfect spot for catching up with a friend for a few hours of serious banter.
“I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.” – Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Madras – House of Tea for sophisticated takeaway
Inside the Bolani Stoa in central Athens you’ll find this delightful little store, which boasts one of the largest varieties of tea in Europe – 400 to be precise, with imports for 14 tea producing countries in Asia and Africa. With 45 years of experience under his belt, owner Stefanos Papatzialas has a well-trained staff of flavour experts who can explain, inform and recommend brands and varieties. The Madras company also creates their own trademark blends with aromatic plants and fruits, with wild, organic, pest-free Greek herbs and more. Here and in the Piraeus store you can take tea to go rather than linger over a cuppa, but the proprietors are planning to open a store in Athens where customers can drink tea in house. Just what you need when you’re on the go on a cold winter day.
A: 7 Voulis, in Stoa Bolani, Syntagma, Notara 21, Piraeus
“Tea … is a religion of the art of life.” – Kazuko Okakura
Cafe Taf
One of the capital’s best coffee shops also serves a great cup of tea. Selling a broad variety of herbal, fruit and black or red tea loose leaf blends created by the British Suki Tea brand, first set up in 2005 by Annie and Oscar. Popular choices include Lemon and Ginger, Red Berry, Green Tea Sencha and Mango Tango but there are also more classical blends like Earl Grey and Breakfast Tea. The ambiance is urban chic with colourful touches and minimal furnishings, perfect for a working morning.
A: Emmanouil Benaki 7-9, Exarcheia
“If you are cold, tea will warm you;
if you are too heated, it will cool you;
If you are depressed, it will cheer you;
If you are excited, it will calm you.” – William Ewart Gladstone
Let’s put it this way: you don’t come here for a ‘great meal’, you come for The Experience.
Certainly, you are well rewarded by both, at one of the city’s most prestigious, elegant and imposing hotels, the Grande Bretagne, which is almost synonymous with Syntagma Square. Then there is the view, or better, oh so much better, views. You can’t help but feel on top of the (Athens, at least) world fine dining at this garden restaurant as you are served by friendly, professional staff under the moon and stars. There’s the Acropolis, lit beautifully in shimmering gold, as if she is posing for you; and there’s the Parliament Square and Syntagma, like a theatre set below you. And lush Lycabettus Hill, with St George church twinkling its lights at the top. Greenery all around and elegance at every glance, in one of the city’s most classic hotspots for the glitterati.
Type of cuisine? Pronounced Mediterranean influences presented in haute cuisine compilations. Flavours are fresh, rich and true to their quality ingredients. Don’t expect experimental or highly gourmet gastronomy, although creativity and finesse are definitely not lacking.
Type of eatery? Super-elegant and the ideal place to take someone very special to you for a truly chic dinner.
The low down… This is a classic luxury hotel restaurant and expects you to respect its codes of attire (Evening Dress Code, after 18.00, is elegant and smart-casual. Beachwear of any kind, shorts or flip flops are not allowed). Being a hotel, regardless of its glamorous history and appeal, it does have a slight hotel-feel. But if that’s something you’re not expecting, why go at all?
Décor/ Ambience? Ideally, sit outside to relish the surrounding glories of the Athenian landscape in combination with your beautifully prepared meal. In the evening hours the restaurant becomes a-buzz with a combination of international hotel guests and both local and foreign outside visitors. The ambience is sophisticated, vibrant and chic without feeling heavily so.
Entrees? We tried the Trilogy of carpaccio with sea bass, salmon and tuna with yuzu sorbet and mastiha oil, and Homemade ‘ravioli’ with goat’s cheese, green pea cream and tomato syrup. The carpaccio was as delightfully fresh and zingy as you’d hope, with the flavours from each fish carpaccio remaining distinct, and the mastiha oil was hardly traceable, only adding to the flavour without standing out. The ravioli was soft, creamy and comforting but the flavours were a little blended.
Mains? We tried the Lamb duet, grilled carré and slow-cooked leg, with smoked Florina pepper and potato filled with a cream of basil and ‘volaki’ cheese from Andros. This was an earthy dish, with warming, delicate flavours in the lamb and smoked pepper and a refreshing tang from the basil and goat’s cheese potato side.
Dessert? For over five years, the dessert menu here is curated by French patissiere Arnaud Larher, who stands amongst the top 10 chocolatiers of France. We tried the Pistacchio Choux with pistachio cream and crunchy salted praline and the Chocolate Bomb with a hazelnut filling. Both were divine, but (subjectively, as all reviews are after all) I would return to the GB Roof Garden Restaurant again and again just for that row of choux.
Something to drink? Between 2014 – 2016 the GB Roof Garden Restaurant was awarded the Wine Spectator Restaurant Award, and the restaurant’s wine list continues to be excellent. Cocktails are very well mixed too. Try the Guava Martini.
Price range? With an entrée, main and dessert per person you can estimate the bill will come to a total of around 160 € without wine or cocktails.
Location? Vasileos Georgiou 1 A, Syntagma (8TH Floor).
Opening hours/days? Lunch: 13:00 to 16:00 & Dinner: 18:00 to 00:00. Bar: 13:00 to 00:00
A: Emmanouil Benaki 7-9, Exarcheia
