Nestled in the vibrant heart of Koukaki, just a short 10-minute walk from the Acropolis, This is Loco is redefining the Athenian brunch scene. More than just a café, it’s a lively fusion of Latin American flavors and global influences, where the love for authentic cuisine, specialty coffee, and warm hospitality come together. Whether you're seeking a mouthwatering brunch, a delightful coffee experience, or a lively event space, This is Loco has something special for everyone.

A Culinary Journey Through Latin America

Born in Honduras, Ilias was introduced to cooking at a young age out of necessity. His mother suffered a stroke when he was just nine years old, leaving him and his sister to care for her. This challenging situation led to Ilias learning to cook, a skill he quickly fell in love with. After moving to Greece at 16, he decided to pursue his newfound passion, studying at the Le Monde Culinary School and eventually specializing in Latin American cuisine. Ilias blends his Greek roots with Latin flavors, experimenting with unique combinations that bring a fresh twist to traditional dishes.


Sando Cubano

His attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in every dish, as he tastes and refines every component of his creations. This constant refinement and dedication to perfection is part of what sets the food at This is Loco apart.

• Honduran Baleada – A traditional delight featuring a soft flour tortilla filled with red beans, scrambled eggs, avocado, and red cabbage.
• Chilaquiles con Salsa Roja – A classic Mexican breakfast dish with crispy tortillas, spicy tomato sauce, fried egg, and feta cheese, offering a perfect fusion of Latin and Mediterranean flavors.
• Sando Cubano – A delicious combination of flavors with brioche bread, tender pork steak, whole grain mustard, pickled cucumber and onion, and a touch of heat from jalapeño, creating a perfect balance of savory and zesty notes.
• Chicken Mole Sando – A rich and flavorful sandwich featuring soft brioche bread, juicy chicken smothered in mole sauce, crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy sour cream, and pickled onions, bringing together a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Lately, one new dish has already started stealing hearts—Tacos de Provatina. A bold and mouthwatering creation with a chipotle corn tortilla filled with succulent pulled sheep, fresh red onion, vibrant cilantro, salsa verde, and pickled onions, making it a must-try for meat lovers!


Tacos de Provatina

Every dish is prepared with the finest ingredients, many of which are sourced locally, ensuring a fresh and authentic experience. There are also fantastic vegan options like the Lentil Burrito and the vegan version of the Baleada.

A Coffee Lover’s Dream 

   

Pastry & Refreshments

In addition to the exceptional coffee, This is Loco delights visitors with a selection of exquisite pastries. You'll find creations by our pastry Chef. Her offerings include indulgent carrot, velvet, and banana cakes, alongside a selection of other sweet treats that change daily. Our personal favourite? The lemon and pistachio cake! It’s just too delicious to say no!

• First Floor: A cozy area, ideal for intimate gatherings, study sessions, or small meetings (accommodating up to 25 people).
• Ground Floor: A spacious open area with stunning terrazzo flooring and a rustic-industrial aesthetic, perfect for private dinners, business events, and social gatherings, seating up to 60 guests or hosting up to 150 standing attendees.

A Vision Brought to Life

The vision behind This is Loco is as inspiring as its menu. Founded by Athena Skouvaki, a creative entrepreneur who has lived in Sydney and London, the café is a reflection of her global experiences and passion for hospitality. Returning to her childhood neighborhood, she transformed a former car workshop into a welcoming space that blends the past with the present. From the hand-restored mosaic floors to the carefully curated artwork, every detail embodies her dream of creating an inclusive, art-infused culinary haven.

A Destination for Brunch, Coffee & Culture

Nature enthusiasts should follow a lovely path through the famous Koukounariés forest and around Lake Strofilia (4.2 km). Alternatively, take a leisurely, easy walk round Kanapitsa Peninsula (4.9km).

If you like long walks (7km), why not visit Skiathos’ historical churches—Evagelistrias Monastery & the Churches of St. Harálambos, St. Apóstolos and St. Dimitrios.

The island of Alonissos is home to the Mediterranean Monk Seal (monachus monachus), one of the biggest seal species. You can go to the National Marine Park of Alonissos and support the rescue of newborn pups!


To read more, see visitgreece.gr

With some chicken stock in the freezer and a pile of lemons, I set out to see what the hype was about (this recent cloudy weather made it all the more appealing). Some orzo or rice is simmered in the stock until tender, and in the meantime the egg whites are whipped separately, the yolks and lemon juice added, followed by some of the warmed stock.