By Gina Lionatos
Minu is one of those places that is hard to describe in one word. However, they manage to sum themselves up in three: plants, objects, cafe.
Minu is a charmingly designed sanctuary in the heart of Athens’ Psyrri district, where you can shop hard-to-find homewares, peruse (and get lost in) an extensive collection of plants, or sit back with a refreshment in the elegant courtyard. Of course, at one point or another, you’ll end up doing all three of these things.
The low down… As soon as you step into Minu, you’re taken in by the exotic plants that seem to softly envelop you from all angles, designer homewares and unique gifts (think copies of Kinfolk magazine and glassware that Don Draper himself would insist upon). Walk a little further in to find a long coffee counter stacked with freshly baked cakes, friendly staff and beautifully situated seating options for groups and couples. The cafe/bar is self-service, so place your order at the counter and be sure to explore the entire space before you take a seat as the space is filled with rare plants and surprising touches in every nook. The challenge you’ll face at Minu is deciding on one place to settle in.
Type of cuisine? Minu is a delight for the senses, and this philosophy is carried through to the food on offer. The menu at Minu has been designed by Athinagoras Kostakos (a rising star in Greek cuisine, currently the culinary director at Scorpios Mykonos and Meraki London) and features fresh flavours, artfully presented.
Décor/ Ambience? A thoughtfully designed space, Minu combines an aesthetic mix of Scandinavian minimalism with touches of art deco. Attention has been paid to every detail, from the sprawling pink marble bar to the bathroom tapware. The ambience is decidedly serene and is perfect for intimate catch-ups, informal meetings, or even solo dining with your favourite book, or a design journal you picked up from the gift store.
Menu? Brunch is the sweet spot on Minu’s menu, including the house-favourite Happy Egg Bowl with poached eggs and avocado or the aptly named Scrambleness. The menu varies seasonally and also includes salads, bao buns and a pork katsu sando to remember.
Something to drink? By day, there is a great range of coffee, healthy smoothies and tea on offer. In the evening hours, give their house Negroni a try, or sample a perfectly chilled glass of Biblia Xora rosé.
Price range? Brunch is priced between 8-16€
Location? Sarri 50, Athens
Opening hours/days? Open from 09.00-23.00 Monday – Sunday