If you are visiting the archaeological park of Acadimia Platonos, one of the most prestigious educational establishments of ancient Athens, which was founded by the philosopher Plato, you must also take a walk in the nearby neighborhood of Kolonos. Between the modern high-rises, you come across the small houses of Kolonos, built between 1900 and 1935. Their unadorned facades and simple construction with just one floor and a small yard give the impression that their owners, who were primarily middle-class Athenian citizens at the time, recognized the sanctity and significance of the nearby Acamidia. Some of these houses are still inhabited by elders who refuse to leave them, but most of them have fallen into disrepair over time. It is an image of an authentic part of Athenian everyday life that is fading and worth preserving in every way.
But in order to have a complete experience of the neighborhood you must visit Mouries. This place was for many years a traditional cafe, which, when the owner died, his children (with their mother as a cook) took over and turned into a tavern. The food here, homemade and delicious, is a journey through time to an era of purity and authenticity. It does not matter what you order because everything is made with the same care (however, my favorite dish here is the meatballs). But apart from the food, the place itself has a simplicity, honesty, and laid-back atmosphere that wins you over from the first moment.
Find your way with 262 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
MOMO is a cafe/bar/restaurant in Athens with an exquisite backyard that will give you back the time that's been stolen from you...
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A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
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Matchpoint's interior is tastefully decorated, and the music is lovely but my favorite is sitting outside enjoying my drink and watching the world go by.
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Ode to socks has made good use of the local greek heroes such as the priest (pappa), the priest's wife, the sailor, and the fisherman, who are characteristic figures in every Greek's childhood.
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There are always dishes of the day in addition to the set menu, so no two visits to Mandragoras are ever the same. And kontosouvli is always available.
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Every time I cross Evripidou Street, I am overwhelmed by the aroma of cinnamon, pepper, and oregano, and images of Eastern bazaars come to mind.
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My two favorites are Sfakianopita with honey and the famous Dakos. Every plate is cooked in olive oil with lots of rosemary.
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Mauricio the cat likes to carry the latest publications, bringing attention to quality and design, and often hosts events such as reading time meetings with popular authors for his little friends.
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"Koukaki", the neighborhood in the center of Athens, is my favorite neighborhood anywhere in the world! Just come explore -- you won't regret it...
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"Prigkiponisia" is one of my favorite pastry shops in Palaio Faliro, Athens. They're well known for their tsoureki bread & ice cream
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"Melanthiou street" used to be an Athens street where drug addicts frequented - now it's a cyclist's joint, full of refreshing bars and creative studios.
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262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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