Here, Passion for Greece shares her experience of this Moroccan restaurant in Glyfada, Athens.

Tagine Restaurant in Glyfada, is a Moroccan dining experience that one should definitely try. When it comes to story telling, great food and an authentic environment, this is the place to be. On Monday night myself and 3 other members of Travel Bloggers Greece - Eleanna of Foodaki, Chrysoula of Travel Passionate and Maria of Maria Carras Creative, were invited on a Moroccan food journey in the heart of the Athenian Riviera.

Our host Kareem welcomed us in his new restaurant and shared with us the little secrets of what makes Tagine so special. Kareem cooks from the heart, and he has a passion for his business, which is something you can tell from the moment you meet Kareem. He is also a very talented story teller which makes the whole dining experience an even greater journey. You learn during the process of your meal experience and when you leave, you feel like you have gained new perspectives that have opened up the horizons of your mind. Meet Kareem and you will mark my words.

We started our dinner with learning about the art of Moroccan tea drinking, which is a much-loved tradition that signifies hospitality and friendship. Kareem let us in on a little secret, offering us a treat that has quite a remarkable story. There is a type of sugar that is actually an alternative to sugar and which only wealthy Arabs can afford to buy because of the price tag on this rare product which is especially used by people with diabetes. This sugar is called “Tears of Life” and it comes from a tree that is found on the borders of Afganistan, that produces 5 different fruit types. What you do is take a piece of this sugar, place it in your mouth and then drink the mint tea in order to get the flavours on your palate. A very unique experience indeed.  

The feast then continued with a selection of salads and dips known as mezze: Mutabal, a spicy dip made from eggplants, Taboule which is originally a Syrian/ Lebanese recipe which is served on lettuce leaves for flavour and digestion purposes, Hummus made from chickpeas, Arabic salad which is marinated with three different spices, pomegranate, lemon, balsamic vinegar and rice vinegar.  

You must also try Kareem’s falafel prepared from 14 ingredients, 7 of which are spices and 7 are fresh ingredients. Kareem only listed a few, not to disclose all his secrets, so what we could make out was that some of the ingredients are: chickpeas, garlic, parsley, onions, small leaf parsley and wild ginger. But the whole secret lies in the spices! The ingredients are marinated for 20 hours before they are served. The falafel is topped with Kareem’s signature tahini sauce. Are you hungry yet?

To read more, please visit: Passion For Greece

Greeks aren't known for their love of breakfast, but with so many great spots opening up all over the city, the brunch craze has hit Athens for the past few years! Here is a terrific list of excellent brunch and late breakfast spots that will satisfy even the most discerning guests!


 

New York Sandwiches


@newyorksandwiches_

New York is not only relevant when it comes to the aesthetic of this place, but also its mouthwatering dishes. Famous for its rich weekend brunch menu, New York sandwiches serves a variety of American classics, including grilled bread with miniature tomatoes and mushrooms, French toast, eggs Benedict, American pancakes, bagels with various fillings, burgers, salads, and, of course, New York cheesecake or praline pancake for dessert. If you're thirsty, try a cup of filter coffee, a glass of fresh juice, or a Bloody Mary. 

Address: Sinopis 3, Ampelokipoi
Telephone: 21 0777 8475

Established by a group of cycling enthusiasts, the Handlebar is the first cycling cafe in Greece. Located in the heart of Athens, in the scenic neighborhood of Psirri, this cafe has a European beauty to it, and its unique design incorporates retro, street, and pop elements. While you wait for your bike to be repaired you may enjoy some delicious London breakfast at exceptionally affordable pricing. In addition to serving wonderful breakfast and nice meals, it also provides a variety of cultural activities

Address: 8 Melanthiou street, Psirri
Telephone: 21 1409 3002

This corner snack bar in Koukaki serves a sumptuous Sunday brunch with comfort food options, such as the Croque Madame with smoked ham, tomato, and Swiss cheese, wonderful pancakes, vegetable tart, French onion soup, freshly cut salads, as well as delicious juices and outstanding drinks, in keeping with the latest food trends. The modern ambiance and delicious, yet healthy, flavors will make you want to visit again and again. 

Address: 88 Falirou & G. Georgiou street, Koukaki
Telephone: 21 3032 6450

Odori


@odori_vermuteria

With its nice outdoor quiet area, this place serves the best authentic Italian pizza in the city! Brunch options are plenty on the menu. Anything with eggs is fantastic, especially pizza and traditional peinirli which are both great choices for brunch!

Address: 2 Skouleniou, Athens
Telephone: 21 0331 4674


@kitchenlab_official

If you're in the mood for a beach stroll, a visit to this place is a fantastic option. The delicious dishes all have chef Akis Petretzikis' signature. Go for the eggs Benedict with turkey. Simple and tasty. Protein shakes are also a great alternative for those of you looking to maintain your fitness. The granola yogurt (for the health-conscious) and, of course, the burgers (for the more adventurous) are both delicious.

Address: 26 Lazaraki, Glyfada
Telephone: 21 0968 1126

The hip central Athens district of Koukaki was recently voted among the top 10 must-visit up-and-coming global neighbourhoods, and for good reason! Not only is this area located just steps from the enchanting historic centre of Athens, it sits in the shadow of the magnificant Acropolis.

Koukaki has always been a popular neighbourhood in Athens, but recent additions to the area have made it that much more attractive to locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the area's best picks for food and coffee that will surely have you returning for more!

The Fabrica Of Euphrosinos
Address: An. Zini 34, 117 41 

Price per person: € 20-25
Hours: Weekdays: 11.00-23.00, Friday-Saturday: 11.00-1.00 

This new hot spot is a real food factory by George Gatsos who studied theology in Belgrade and passed through the kitchens of Mount Athos as a student. Gatsos' love for the authentic comes through in atmosphere and flavors. The decor is simple, by Serbian artist Gora, the food is delicious the wine selection unique from various small producers. The name of the restaurant is a dedication to Saint Euphrosinos, the patron saint of cooks. Euphrosinos is a busy spot so don't be suprised if it's full even if you visit mid week.

 

Garyfallo-Kanella
Address: Zan Moreas 28 & Falirou 84, 117 41
Price per person: € 10
Hours: Weekdays: 11.00-18.00, Friday - Saturday until late.

In the kitchen at Garyfallo-Kanella you'll find Dimos and his mother. The menu consists of homemade traditional Greek mezedes dishes and the bread is also made in-house. On Fridays and Saturdays they're open late and serve traditional dishes from Asia Minor. Prices are great and they offer a delivery service within central Athens.

ManiMani
Address: Makriyianni 10 & Falirou, 117 42 
Price per person: € 22 - 25
Hours: Open daily and on weekends - closed on Sunday night.

This restaurant made Mani sausage with 'siglino' (celery) fashionable and with a 10 year history, its cuisine honors the traditions of its southern Greek origin. Fava, village hot dogs, giouvetsi (beef in tomato sauce) and pork with spinach all have an interesting twist from chef Alexandros Foroulis. It's location is perfect and offers a quiet oasis from the bustle of the city. Prices are at mid-range restaurant level and they also offer half portions at half the price too!

Valparaiso
Address: G. Olympiou 7, 117 41
Price per person: € 10
Hours: Daily from 10.00-3.00

Located on the pedestrian walkway of Olympiou, this local gathers many people! Port Valparaiso in Chile was the inspiration for the name. The excellent design, great cocktails and amazing coffees of rare varieties all come together perfectly. 

Pagaki
Address: Olympou 17, 117 41
Price per person: 10€
Hours: Daily from 11.00-00.00

Pagaki, meaning bench in English, is a collective-urban partnership where everyone works for everyone. The food options are few and excellent, including anchovies, beans, lemon flavored pork lemon and are all € 4 or less. Wi-fi is free and Pagaki is one of the few spots with excellent access for the disabled.

Lotte
Address: Tsami Karatasou 2, 117 42
Price per person: 10€
Hours: Daily from early in the morning

Lotte reminds you of a cfe that you'd find in Monmarte. It's small, vintage, and if you close your eyes you get the feeling that you're in mum's living room; the tiles are from the Municipal Theatre of Piraeus before it was remodelled. It's the perfect spot for a cup of tea and some hand made cakes!

Guarantee
Address: Veikou 41, 117 42
Price per person: 10€
Hours: Daily from 10.00-17.00

A gourmet sandwich spot that made sandwiches fashionable, Guarantee is celebrating 27 years of service. After this many years its inevitable to have a number of fans who love their famous cold cuts, roast beef and fluffy buns. Make a sandwich of your choice and combine it with a yummy fresh juice.

Originally posted in Greek on: AthensWiz

The Michelin Guide has been in publication for over a century! The Michelin Guide is the oldest European hotel and restaurant reference guide, so a Michelin star (or stars) of excellence is something that only a few of the very best and notable establishments receive. Here are some of the exceptional restaurants in Athens that have been awarded by Michelin:

Hytra
Take the express lift up to the 6th floor of the striking Onassis Cultural Centre; here you'll find a sultry restaurant looking out over Syngrou. Classic Greek recipes are executed in a refined modern manner - for something a little different try the cocktail pairings. They also offer a bistro menu at the bar.

 

Cuisine: Modern

Michelin Stars: One
Address: 6th Floor, Onassis Cultural Centre, 107-109 Syngrou Ave, 11745, Athens

Telephone: 210 3316 767

Price Point: $$$$
Dress Code: Smart

Spondi
A discreet, intimate restaurant with two delightful courtyards and two charming dining rooms - one built from reclaimed bricks in the style of a vaulted cellar. Top quality seasonal ingredients are used in imaginative, deftly executed, stunningly presented modern French dishes. Greek, French and Italian wines feature on an impressive list.
 
Cuisine: French
Michelin Stars: Two
Address: 5 Pyronos, Varnava Square, Pangrati,  Athens
Telephone: 210 7564021

Price Point: $$$$
Dress Code: Smart

Varoulko Seaside
Varoulko sits in a great spot in Mikrolimano Marina - the chef's old neighbourhood. Watch the yachts glide by from the maritime-themed dining room which opens onto the water. Greek and Mediterranean dishes showcase organic vegetables, Cretan olive oil and the freshest seafood; squid and octopus feature highly.

Cuisine: Fish and seafood
Michelin Stars: One
Address: Akti Koumoundourou 52, Mikrolimano, Piraeus
Telephone: 210 5228400

Price Point: $$$$
Dress Code: Smart

Botrini's
A keenly run, ultra-modern restaurant away from the centre of the city; sit in the main room with its view of the chefs at work. Creative, characterful, flavour-packed dishes showcase the owner-chef's Greek-Italian heritage. He hails from Corfu and ingredients from the island are well used..
 
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Michelin Stars: One
Address: 24b Vasileos Georgiou, 10435, Chalandri
Telephone: 210 6857323

Price Point: $$$$
Dress Code: Smart
Source: www.guide.michelin.com

Nowadays, as the negative impacts of smoking become more prevalent and people are opting to quit, more restaurants, cafés, and bars are joining in the fight for smoke-free restaurants!

Since the 2009 law, smoking is supposedly forbidden in all public indoor places and all businesses supposedly comply. That’s why, in most places, you will see non-smoking signs – even though the owners will inform you that smoking is in fact allowed – and why you won’t see any ashtrays – even though you will be offered some sort of improvised ash dispenser, (like a plastic cup or a small plate) on the sly, if you profess to be a smoker. As one complying owner said to me “this was not a war on smoke, but a war on ashtrays.”

Following is a list of Athenian downtown spaces which are smoke-free in theory and in practice, and where exceptions are never made. However, bear in mind that in the summer most places have their doors and windows open and smoke from outside often creeps in.

Address: 3 Kolokotroni
Telephone: 694.824.2455 
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00 – 02:00, Sat-Sun 12:00 – 03:00
Website: Click here

The owner of one of the most respected cocktail bars in the city is a smoker, and yet he doesn’t want his workspace full of smoke. His clients respect that and step outside for a cigarette, socializing with other smokers in the process. Wood paneling, art deco elements and subdued lighting set the tone for a unique experience at bar 42, where what you end up drinking may be the result of a psychotherapeutic encounter with the barman. According to a footnote on the menu, all you need to do is tell him a few things about yourself and your preferences, and he will come up with a cocktail tailored just for you.

Address: 15 Herodotou
Telephone: 210.721.2253
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 08:00 – 22:00, Sat-Sun 09:00 – 21:00
Website: Click here

Cake used to be a tiny bakery in Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most posh areas, with delicious American-style cakes. About eight years ago it changed location and became a café while, a year ago, it changed owner. However, it still remains one of the cutest coffee & cake places in the city with a wide selection of cakes catering to all tastes. The owner recommends a slice of carrot cake, or his all time favorite, the ‘Red Velvet.’ Cake is an ideal hangout after a visit to one of the museums or galleries in the area and religiously smoke-free for the sake of its clients, who, in the mornings, are mostly elderly people.

Address: 23 Nikis, Syntagma
Telephone: 211.406.7032
Opening Hours: 12:00 – 23:00
Website: Click here

Makalo opened four years ago and has become a popular haunt because of its fine cuisine at affordable prices. Smoke-free because the owners wanted their customers to enjoy their food without the taste of smoke, they initially met with a lot of opposition from smokers, but now have regulars, who will always choose quality of food over smoke. Favorite dishes among the regulars are the chicken fillet in tomato sauce with mushrooms and Greek trahanas (cracked wheat with fermented milk) and the grilled salmon fillet with sauté zucchini, lime sauce, peppermint and brown rice. The chef recommends spinach pesto tagliatelle with almonds, fresh tomato, olives and feta cheese and make sure you try their homemade lemonade.

4. MAMA ROUX

Address: 48 Eolou
Telephone: 213.004.8382
Opening Hours: Mon: 10:00 – 18:30 (breakfast 10:00 – 12:30), Tue-Sat 10:00 – 00:30 (breakfast 10:00 – 12:30), Sun 12:30 – 18:00 (brunch only)
Website: Click here

Mama Roux, on the pedestrian Eolou Street, opened in 2011 with a multi-cultural staff and a multi-ethnic cuisine, and quickly became a favorite among locals who enjoy its food and easy-going atmosphere. For John, its American owner who moved to Greece 12 years ago, having a non-smoking establishment was more about taking a stand than complying with the law, and even though, during the first weeks, many clients fought against his choice, he also received good press for making a serious commitment. For him, it was also an aesthetic and ethical issue; he wanted his employees to work in a smoke-free environment and his clients to be given a smoke-free option. Mama Roux is a popular destination for Sunday brunch, but make sure you make a reservation ahead of time.

Address: 31-33 Voulis
Telephone: 210.324. 3545
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 13:00 – 00:00, Sun 12:00 – 17:30
Website: Click here

Named after Christopher Nolan, the owner’s favorite director, this downtown restaurant has opened quite recently and yet customers are already swooning over the fusion dishes of its Greek-Japanese chef. Marble, mosaic, wood and metal create the set for a multi ethnic culinary journey via an inspired menu; where a Vietnamese chicken soup can co-exist harmoniously with Nolan’s version of fried chicken (NFC) and a dish of shrimps with Greek stamnagathi (a leafy green) and Turkish soutzouki (a kind of sausage). Kostas, the owner, a fanatic smoker, opted for a non-smoking restaurant because food and smoke simply do not go together and “any restaurateur who claims that he does not forbid smoking for fear of losing his clientele, is simply trying to hide his shortcomings. If what you offer is good, you will always have clients.”

For more suggestions on Athenian hangouts without smoke, please visit: Greece Is

You may also like to read: Scenic And Smoke-Free Cafes In Athens

Summer has made its appearance in the cafes and bars of Athens, along with some of the most cherished habits of the weekend. Saturday & Sunday brunch is served at tables outside, in cool courtyards and shady squares. Here are some of the top summer brunch spots in Athens:

 

In one of the most beautiful courtyards of Petralona, if not in the entire city of Athens, is Kyrios Xou, which has tables which that are loaded with homemade delicacies every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 until 15:00. Successful flavours on the menu include spinach tart, ricotta and bacon, toast with feta cheese, tomato and oregano, Skopelos cheese pie, pancakes with honey, chocolate and maple syrup, New York City cheesecake with cherry jam, croque madame, and Scottish eggs. They serve hearty meals and are not too expensive. It comes out to be about 7€ to 8€ per person.

 

 

One of our favorite spots in Koukaki, Monsieur Barbu, has tables beneath foliage and next to flower beds. The chef serves eggs on brioche bread with sausage and bacon, savory tarts, burgers and tortillas and these are just for starters. For dessert, there's lemon pie with nutella, chocolate cake with peanut butter and fruit jams, carrot cake, and pancakes with chocolate or honey. Brunch is served every Sunday from 12.00 to 16.00 and will not cost you more than 10€ per person.

 

 

The most hip, industrial and urban café of Thissio is located in the most beautiful pedestrian area. It has many levels and in the small backyard, it serves  brunch from 11.00 until 17.00 on weekends. The menu includes salads (quinoa or lentils), eggs (fried, scrambled, benedict), sandwiches (Croque Madame, open with bresaola and burgers beef or chicken) and delicious pancakes (with honey or hazelnut praline). Dish prices range between  5€ to 8€.

 

 

In the captivating backyard that has finally been uncovered for the summer, Penny Lane serves delicious brunch not only on weekends, but every day from 10:00 till 18:00 in the afternoon. Croque Madame serves pancakes, pizzas, eggs benedict with fried bacon, salads superfoods (try it with the quinoa), and burgers. Prices range from 5€ to 6€.

 

Do you fancy visiting one of the busiest squares of Athens? Why not pay a visit to Osterman? Osterman has a luxurious industrial backdrop and prepares brunch cocktails (from 7€) like the French 75 with Prosecco, gin, lemon and sugar or homemade Bloody Mary. You can also find amazing coffee (3,50€ a freddo), homemade lemonades, and other beverages that will accompany the brunch served until 17.00. The menu includes fried eggs with spicy sauce and smoked bacon, eggs and sauteed mushrooms with cream and truffle oil, Croque Madame and Monsieur, sandwiches with Black Angys, chilli sauce and french fries, or with pastrami, sauerkraut and Emmental. Dishes range between 6,50 and 10€.

Originally posted on: In2life.gr
Translated by XpatAthens

Who said that sushi was a luxurious option only for people with large wallets? It's not anymore! You can now enjoy favourites such as maki, rolls & nigiri without breaking the bank.

Price Point: $$-$$$
Dress Code: Casual

Kazoku

Kazoku in Japanese means family and this is how you're going to feel there, just like family in a warm and friendly environment. It is small place, but it has great value for your money. It opened about a year ago in Glyfada and it welcomed the lovers of Japanese cuisine just a few meters from Kyprou square. Patrons will have the chance to try the excellent and fresh rolls like the dragon, but also the spicy salmon, rainbow, tiger tempura and the amazing duck salad. Prices range from 17€ per person.

Location: 11 Foivis, Glifada
Telephone: 210 8944549

Price Point: $$
Dress Code: Casual

Shisan Sushi Bar

This new affordable Sushi place in Holargos is a small and friendly spot where you will eat a lot and the prices are great! You may start with salmon or tuna tutaki and may continue with excellent and fresh shisan rolls. You can't leave without trying the Mochi Chocolate, a cream made from rice with a chocolate flavour. They also have take away meals and a delivery service. Prices range from 12€ per person.

Location: 24 Mesogeion, Holargos
Telephone: 210 6510011

Price Point: $$
Dress Code: Casual

Yoshi Sushi Bar

Yoshi Sushi has managed to attract people from all over Athens. Hidden within the Plaza shopping mall, it is a modern place that promises to teach us the secrets of the Japanese cuisine. The best selling dishes are the sushi combos (from 12€), which include a taste from each category of the menu. Ask the waitor about the dish of the day as the restaurant offers something new everyday.

Location: 7 Platonos, Halandri
Telephone: 216 7006857

Price Point: $$-$$$
Dress Code: Casual

Summer is around the corner so it goes without saying that anyone can enjoy a meal next to the sea while listening to the sound of the waves! But choosing the best one can be quite a challenge.

Below, you will find some of the best fish taverns that are as close to the sea as you can get! 


Garbi   


@garbirestaurant

This panoramic tavern in Vouliagmeni is quite charming, especially during the sunset and the terrace is simply relaxing. At Garbi, you will find classic dishes that characterize the 98-year-old history of the restaurant, including octopus with vinegar and eggplant salad, but also modern tastes like salmon hamburger and sea bass ceviche.

Location: Iliou 21, Vouliagmeni
Telephone: 210 8963480

Sardelaki Me Thea 


@sardelaki_me_thea

The terraces that look over the bay of Vouliagmeni offer a unique breathtaking view. Sardelaki Me Thea is a large restaurant with white tables and chairs, which create a very cheerful atmosphere. There are dishes you must try, including the marinated anchovies and the squid and grilled scorpaena. Also recommended are the sardines cooked with tomatoes, potatoes, and parsley. 

Location: Leof. Poseidunos 18, Vouliagmeni
Telephone: 210 9670913

Thea Thalassa


@thea_thalassa_

Located on a gorgeous deck at Mikrolimano, Giorgos Lebidaki's fish tavern is simple and relaxing with a friendly atmosphere. The tavern offers a large menu of classic and modern dishes, including handmade morsels, oysters with seaweed wakame, and lemon fried seaweed (sea lettuce), which you break by hand into seafood chips.  This is a great place with good quality and prices.

Location: Akti Themistokleous 344, Piraeus
Telephone: 210 4132070

Ammos


@ammosportorafti 

Grab a seat at one of the white sofas of this fish tavern in Porto Rafti and you will get the impression that you are on an Aegean island. In the kitchen, Chrysostomos Prasatzis makes fisherman's risotto, which is mussels with tomato sauce and linguini with clams. There are many choices for meat-eaters such as tenderloin marinated in black beer and served in a delicious mustard sauce.

Location: Avlakiou 52, Pοrto Rafti, Attiki
Telephone: 229 9084550

Greece is known for its heart healthy, delicious Mediterranean cuisine and some of the best restaurants in the world. After analyzing user reviews and ratings, TripAdvisor released a list of the ’top 10’ restaurants in Greece, highlighting all the favorites from an upscale modern restaurant in Athens to a beachside cafe in Santorini.

 

Where:13 Paramithias Street and Salaminos, Keramikos

Telephone: 210 524 2727

Where: 4 Dexamenis, Kifisia

Telephone: 210 620 0005

Where: Main Beach Rd, Pefkos

Telephone: 224 404 8213

Where: Imerovigli

Telephone: 228 602 5649

Where: Agios Georgios Beach, Perivolos

Telephone: 228 608 2801

Where: Lindos, Rhodes

Telephone: 224 403 2222

Where: 10 Kalogera, Mykonos Town

Telephone: 228 907 8550

Where: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A_ Str., Syntagma Square

Telephone: 210 333 0766

Where: Kotronia Skiathos Island

Telephone: 242 702 4550
Website

Where: 52 Akti Koumoundourou, Piraeus

Telephone: 210 522 8400

Website

Source: TripAdvisor