With an inventive and forward-looking interpretation of fine dining, Pelagos has fast left its mark on the Athens dining scene, earning a coveted Michelin star within its first six months of operation.
By Gina Lionatos
Type of eatery: Classic fine dining within the walls of the five-star Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens.
The low down… The experience at Pelagos isn’t just mouth-wateringly delicious, it is one that will leave your taste buds in an utter daze, while you excitedly discuss the innovative flavour combinations with your fellow diners.
Décor/ Ambience: The interior exudes warmth and elegance, with retro touches reminiscent of a luxury yacht or cruiser. The sweeping views of the Aegean Sea will leave you feeling like you’ve set sail while you embark on a culinary journey.
Menu
The Pelagos menu has an a la carte selection of entrees, mains and desserts, however, to truly experience Pelagos is to partake in one of the degustation menus. Tasting menus vary in size, price and ingredients (including vegetarian and vegan options) and feature stand out starters like the yellowtail crudo with marinated heirloom tomatoes, cherries, elderflower, oregano and burrata cream – an incredibly pretty and fresh starter.
The celebration of the sea continues with plates like Tuna – a dish that features both a delicate tartare accompanied by pistachio and bay leaf ice cream, and a “tuna souvlaki” grilled to perfection and served in a fluffy mini pita bread.
The Wild Sea Bass (Dry Aged) served with mastiha artichoke, smoked pike caviar and kumquat is another dish you don’t want to miss.
The tasting menu is capped off with delicate and delectable dessert dishes like the apricot tarte with nikka whiskey and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to sample a selection of hand-made chocolate morsels (the white chocolate and olive oil truffle is a stand-out).
Something to drink: Start the evening in your own style, with a tailor-made martini shaken at the bar’s martini cart. After your aperitivo, select from an impressive and extensive selection of wines. Adding a wine pairing to your degustation is highly recommended.
My favourite dish: Picking a favourite at an establishment like Pelagos is tricky. Each dish is literally better than the one that came before it. However, an honourable mention must be made of the mind-bending amuse-bouche bites like the crab-filled cracker, reconceptualised oyster and sea urchin tiramisu, which are served at the meal’s beginning and set the tone for an inspired dining experience.
Signature dishes: The Caviar Pasta is a signature Pelagos experience. Cold mancini spaghetti is dressed in clam emulsion, almonds, bronze fennel and topped with glistening black pearls of Krystal Caviar. Simply put, it is a must-try.
Price range: Degustation menus start from a four-plate menu at 95 € (+ 35 for wine pairing) and range up to an eight-plate menu at 155 Euro (+ 75 for wine pairing)
Location: Located within the Four Seasons Athens Astir Palace | Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni.
Opening hours/days: Tuesday-Saturday 7-10 pm.
Images Courtesy of Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens | Featured Image Courtesy of MBDS