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A global campaign currently circulating on the social media calls to award the Eastern Aegean islands with the Nobel Peace Prize for their contribution in the refugee crisis.

“The people of Lesbos and other Greek islands in the East Aegean, despite the on-going fierce economic crisis, have fought with the waves to save the valuable lives of desperate people fleeing the war zones of the Middle East, have provided safe shelter, warm clothing and food”, the campaign on Avaaz.com reads.

International media have been reporting how the native populations of the Greek Islands in the Aegean Sea (and many other external, worldwide, non-profit organisations and diaspora Greeks) have done and are doing anything possible to help the displaced Syrian refugees and make them as comfortable as possible, although they themselves have very little to offer, due to to a severe economic crisis for many years.

The campaign hopes their acts and sacrifices do not go unnoticed, “because they are significant contributors to World Peace and Stability, and are clear examples of love for others in the world to use and to learn from”.

More than 750,000 of the 900,000 migrants who have arrived in Europe this year landed in Greece, 60% on Lesbos, in the world’s biggest wave of mass migration since World War II.

Click HERE to cast your vote and support the Greek islands. It only takes seconds!

To read more, please visit: Greek Current
Monday, 12 December 2016 07:00

7 New Restaurants Opening In Athens

The holidays are an exciting time to try new restaurants and explore more of Athens! Here is a list of 7 new restaurants that have opened (or will open very soon!) in Athens. 

Vasilainas

Address: 
13 Vrasida, Piraeus
Telephone: 693 720 0217
Website

The historical restaurant of Piraeus is now opening its doors in Athens on Vrasidas Street just behind the Hilton Hotel. The place will soon be ready and we will see the impressive roof (a grid of wine bottles with optical fibers), the results of the partnership of three talented young chefs, Manos Garnelis, Dimos Balopoulos and Nikos Vlachakis. Fish and meat will coexist on the new menu, with emphasis given to the fish menu. To get an idea, the menu will include scabecheoctopus, a grilled with mashed chickpea soup, spicy tomato salad, pasta with shrimp, smoked tomato and basil, and grilled grouper with mashed beetroot.

Ommu
 
Omu, which means parrot in Japanese, is the old 'Oozora' in Kifissia. The upper bar will gain a new style making an autonomous Bar-Restaurant. Gourmet streetfood by George Venieris, cocktails and "lives" that are not very common in Kifissia, give a different tone to this new concept. The taste proposals will include a not so clean cut ceviche and sashimi, hot dogs, burgers with caramelized buns, and funky pizzas including duckgonzola with duck and gorgonzola.

Food Mafia Sin City
 
Adress: Βουκουρεστίου 4
Telephone: 
210 324 8062
Website

Food Mafia, which used to be in Glyfada, is now opening during the first week of December at Voukourestiou 4 in Athens. In cooperation with the pre-existing ground floor of the interwar building V4, Food Mafia Sin City invites people to taste Elias Skoulas style. At noon during the lunch menu, there will be a snack attack menu, inspired by his favorite American chef canteens. Customers must  try Papusas, corn pies of El Salvador and toast with foie gras and grilled peaches! The menu has the aesthetic of a cult 70's American magazine.

Big Kahuna
 
Address: 43 Salaminos St., Kerameikos
Telephone: 693 699 8428
Website

While Big Kahuna by Stefanos Stefanidis and Dimitris Balian is being prepared to open its doors, imagine a warehouse-workshop with a huge garage door, which will open and put you in a beach bar interior: floor like sand, tables in Caribbean style and  exotic plants. At Big Kahuna, the food is exotic with streetfood Hai materials. You may find ramen and fried rice in banana to Wagyu shark!

Ble Alepou Papantonis
 
Address: Kifissias Av. 158 & Thomas Economou 2, New Psychiko

Bright & simple is how the next business step by Kostas Papantonis is going to be called after Prime Grill, which closes its doors this year after several years of operation. The new project will open this December and will a have bar-restaurant character, placing emphasis on wine with several Greek and foreign labels.

Ventiri

The new grill that is currently being prepared by the team of Agora Select, is likely to open its doors over the holidays. In its culinary choices, you will may find pies in foil like the Moscow chicken pie with smoked cheese and colorful peppers, meat pie with ground beef, vegetables and mint, all of which are baked in the oven. You can find a wide variety of dishes from bisteka Fiorentina to black pig hot dogs with caramelized onions and Black Angus skirt.

Steak Frites
 
Address: Φιλελλήνων 18
Telephone: 
215 500 3007
Website

At Steak Frites by ToyBox Legends, which will open in a neoclassical building on Filellinon street, the kitchen run by Kostas Tsigka suggests culinary proposals that complement pasta, risotto and lunchtime steak sandwiches.

Originally posted on athinorma.gr
Translated by XpatAthens
In a recent feature published by Time Magazine, Greece's Cycladic Islands were included as one of the best destinations for calm and relaxation in 2018. The Cyclades ranked 3rd on the list, falling behind Bay of Islands in New Zealand as number 1 and Little Corn Islands in Nicaragua as number 2.

The most well-known islands of the Cyclades are Santorini and Mykonos, however the Cyclades consist of more than 200 islands, most of which boast pristine beaches, white-washed villages and blue dome churches.

To find true isolation, head to the less developed islands like Sikinos, Kimolos and Anafi, as proposed by Lonely Planet. Anafi is a 90-minute boat ride from Santorini and offers a relaxed setting and quiet beaches.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter
Welcome to Yi (Γή)! Literally meaning ‘earth’, this unique eatery in Glyfada is one of the best places in Athens to taste healthy, vegan, delicious food. The restaurant offers a refined atmosphere, warm and welcoming interiors, and numerous options for a delightful vegan meal.
 
You don’t need to be vegan to enjoy Yi; chances are you’ll enjoy the food just as much as you would in a non-vegan restaurant and maybe more. There are so many things to choose from: appetizers, salads, wraps, main courses, pastas, dips, desserts. Yi’s amazingly creative menu re-invents  vegetarian food and serves interesting intense flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. We wish we could have tried everything but so far our favorites are the no-meat, no-bread mushroom burger, the cold beetroot soup, and the Asian noodles. Desserts are great, too! Finally, the wine list offers a small but carefully selected variety of Greek wines as well as a couple of alcohol free options.
 
If you are vegan, Yi is a must visit restaurant; but even if you are not, you’re bound to thoroughly enjoy the creative, fresh and healthy dishes that the Yi team prepares for its health conscious clientele every day!
 
 
Address: 69 Grigoriou Labraki, Glyfada
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-24:00, Sat 9:00-01:00, Sun 9:00-24:00
The National Hellenic Museum (NHM) presented The Trial of Hippocrates in a live courtroom debate at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Chicago, on February 20. Following the acclaimed NHM Trials of Antigone, Socrates, and The Parthenon Marbles, the museum once again partnered with prominent judges and attorneys to take-on another ancient case, The Trial of Hippocrates.
 
The Case
 
Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was called to the bedside of the dying King of Thebes. The physician immediately concluded that the King’s illness was incurable. Nevertheless, the King insisted that Hippocrates treat him and offered gold and gifts in return. Hippocrates agreed. Despite Hippocrates’ treatments, the King’s health declined and he soon died. Hippocrates was arrested and brought before the King’s son and heir. Hippocrates had sworn to “help the sick but never with a view to injury and wrong-doing.”
The National Hellenic Museum asks: Did Hippocrates violate his own Oath?
 
Arguments from both prosecution and defense were convincing and many people in the audience stated the case was a moral and professional challenge. In the end, the verdict of the jury breakdown was three Guilty and nine Not Guilty among the jury of twelve esteemed jurors. Additionally, the jury’s verdict was reinforced when the scales of justice were literally tipped to Not Guilty by the majority of the audience voting chips.
 
“This truly unique event brings Hellenism alive, including our love of learning by prompting critical thinking and citizen involvement in decision making. It’s not every day that we as ordinary individuals get to listen to some of the best attorneys in the state argue a case with all the authentic drama as if it’s an official trial. At the end of the courtroom presentations last night, our audience came together as was done in ancient times, each casting their individual ballot, which resulted in a Not Guilty verdict. Although an ancient story, questioning the quality of healthcare at the end of life is still being debated today, just as it was thousands of years ago,” said NHM President Dr. Laura Calamos.

To read this article in full, please visit: The National Herald
 
Tuesday, 21 June 2022 07:00

The Ellinikon Park Plan

Lamda Development recently uploaded an online presentation of its plan for the development of The Ellinikon Park, the largest coastal park in Europe that will dominate the Athens suburb of Elliniko.

It is the company’s fifth online presentation of the works for the major redevelopment of Elliniko, which will transform a unique area in southern Athens by creating a model city at a global level.

As was announced, architecture firm Sasaki, which has drawn up and implemented some of the largest and most impressive urban parks in the world, is responsible for the design and the study of The Ellinikon Park, in collaboration with Greek architecture firm Doxiadis.

Tuesday, 22 November 2022 07:00

Greece Tops Table Of Innovative Enterprises

Greece has the highest share of innovative enterprises in the European Union, a new survey from Eurostat showed on Friday.

In its latest Community Innovation Survey (CIS) survey, Eurostat said that 73% of all enterprises in Greece reported some form of innovation activity in 2018-2020.

Greece was followed by Belgium (71%), Germany and Finland (both 69%), and Cyprus (66%). In contrast, the lowest innovation activity was observed in Romania (11%), Latvia (32%), Hungary and Spain (both 33%), and Poland (35%).

Business innovation relates to the wide range of activities that enterprises undertake to implement innovation processes, develop new goods or services, and bring them to market.

Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Friday, 08 December 2023 09:19

Athens' Top 3 Places For Chocolate Lovers

Winter is upon us, and there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate to warm your soul. For those of us who consider ourselves hot chocolate connoisseurs, Athens has some hidden gems that elevate this classic winter indulgence to an art form. Join us as we explore the top three places in Athens that transform hot chocolate into a sublime experience!


Petite Fleur: A Charming French Bistro in Chalandri

Petit Fleur
@petitefleur.chalandri

Nestled in the heart of Chalandri, Petite Fleur is a quaint French bistro that takes hot chocolate to new heights. Picture this: premium French Valrhona chocolate,  melted in a traditional bain-marie, and blended with organic milk to create a concoction that's nothing short of perfection.

What sets Petite Fleur apart is its commitment to diversity in flavor. While they pay homage to classic chocolate, they also venture into the extraordinary, offering unique mixes such as the delightful blend with sweet Vinsanto wine from Santorini. It's a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds, leaving you begging for more. 

Location: Platia Eleftheroton 16, Chalandri 
Telephone: 210 6814825

L'Arret de Tumps: Where Time Pauses

Screenshot 2023 12 07 4.03.16 PM
@larret_du_temps_

True to its name, L'Arret de Tumps is a place where time seems to come to a standstill. The ambiance is set with retro armchairs that cradle you in comfort, creating an elegant atmosphere that complements the exquisite hot chocolate offerings.

For those who appreciate the classics, the Viennois is a must-try, adorned with a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you're in the mood for something more adventurous, explore the aromatic and spicy side of hot chocolate with options like cinnamon-infused or spiced varieties. Feeling a bit daring? Opt for the amaretto-infused hot chocolate for a delightful twist.

Location: Leof. Vasileos Alexandrou 5-7, Athina
Telephone: 210 7253200

The Dark Side of Chocolate: Cinematic, Romantic, Irresistible

Screenshot 2023 12 08 9.13.08 AM
@darkside_of_chocolate
Contrary to its name, "The Dark Side of Chocolate" is a haven of warmth, romance, and cinematic charm. Step inside and the alluring aroma of chocolate will envelop you in a sweet embrace.

Aristotelis Panagiotaros, the maestro behind this sweet project, expertly crafts hot chocolate using the finest Valrhona chocolate. The menu is a symphony of flavors, with recommendations like the tantalizing chili or cardamom-infused hot chocolate. The retro atmosphere, coupled with friendly staff, adds to the allure of this chocolate haven, creating a world where every moment is infused with decadence.

Location: Solonos 49, Athina
Telephone: 210 3292348
Thursday, 05 February 2015 14:35

Athens Airport To Piraeus Bus Service

We thank our friend Janet Wilkinson for sending us her experience.

"The ringing of my phone woke me up and, confused, I looked at the time - 4:45 am!!   Who was ringing me at this time of the morning!

I am the owner of St. Thomas B & B in Peania and can expect the occasional call at odd hours but this was really early!!

The voice on the other end sounded very anxious and after explaining to me who she was, a previous guest of ours, she told me that she had a huge problem and I was the only person she could think of at that time in Athens to help her!

They had arrived from Norway and taken the 04:05 Express bus from the airport to the port of Piraeus and after leaving the bus she discovered she had left her handbag on there with passport, purse, mobile phone and various other personal items.

My husband immediately called the police who gave him a number to call and after only  5 minutes we were speaking with someone from the bus company at the airport who actually told us that the driver had found her bag and handed it in to the central bus station in Athens!

You can imagine how relieved she was - only a matter of retrieving the bag as they were leaving on the ferry.   We sent a very reliable taxi driver to the station later that morning to collect it and bring it to us.   On checking it out  everything was there!

We must give a huge thank you and round of applause to that bus driver and the bus company as we were absolutely certain that in these difficult times a handbag left on a bus would certainly not be found!  Trust in human nature has been restored!"


St. Thomas B&B
+30 210 6029 367
saintthomas21@yahoo.com
www.stay-in-athens.com
 

Until next week,

Jack


In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…

Monday, 16 February 2015 12:31

Daphne’s Restaurant in Plaka

Daphne’s has been a hallmark of fine dining in Plaka for almost 10 years, and a reference point for visiting dignitaries, corporate chiefs, and socialites-from Hillary Clinton and Betsy Bloomingdale to Meryl Streep and Luciano Benetton. Situated in a beautifully-renovated old Plaka townhouse, the main dining room is covered with Pompei-style murals. The menu is classic but sophisticated Greek.

Appetizers include an astonishingly tender grilled calamari and lamb skewered on toothpicks with light yogurt and mint sauce, with main courses of unusual regional and seasonal fare, such as pork or veal braised with quince or wild greens or eggplant, depending on the season.

In the summer there’s al fresco in the inner courtyard. The service is excellent and the owners charming.

ADDRESS:

4 Lysikratous St, Plaka
Telephone reservations:
+30 210 3227971

 

Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!

 

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