XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:56

Kollias - Legendary Seafood Now In Syngrou

The restaurant serves extremely fresh, innovative seafood dishes at affordable prices. Reliable dinners include grilled sea bass or shrimp in tomato and pepper sauce. Adventurous diners should try mussels stuffed with rice, grapes, and pine nuts; cuttlefish stew with broccoli and cream; or lobster with lemon, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Fresh salads and vegetable fritters accompany meals, and a simple but excellent wine list promises terrific vintages. Smart-casual to dressy attire. Reservations necessary. I have my all-time favorites and Kollias taverna is definitely one of them. I think it’s one of the few destination restaurants that have bucked the trend, lasting and thriving in an area that defies the dictum “location is everything.”

Years can go by between visits, as was the case with a friend of mine recently, but he recalled her name and the dish she ate the last time she was there! Software geniuses have designed computer programs that do that! For Tasso it’s part of being a good restaurateur. The place hasn’t changed much over the years. It’s live in, filled to the brim with fishing and maritime trinkets. His kitchen is open to the public and always bustling, but a visit to the fridge to see the catch of the day—always directly from fishermen and not from the Ichtyoscala (the wholesale market where the fishing boats come in every morning)—is a must. We love the fact that here we found a whole range of great Lenten fare, including: soupia Yiouvetsi (cuttlefish and pasta) with its ink, eggplant rolls filled with mussels, octopus Stifado (stew). Seskoulodolmades with pligouri (chard dolmas filled with bulgur), and stuffed kolokytholoulouda (zucchini blossoms). Don’t miss the pitaroudia (fried patties) filled with Tarama either. Small fish from the Aitoliko Gulf off western Greece, such as “hovioi” are in season now and Tasso is quick to tell you that the bigger size is called “Papoutsia” ("shoes") by local fishermen. We loved his fried small soupies in their ink and the classic but delicious fish baked in salt. It’s not easy in these tough times to keep a place going for so long. Kollia’s recipe for excellent food, fresh greek fish, the best wine prices in town and hospitality that’s really heartfelt has made this place top of my own list of personal favorites.

Hours: Mon-Sat 9pm-1am, Sun noon-4pm; closed Aug

Alcohol Served: Beer, Wine

Ambiance: Intimate, Outdoor Dining

Dress: Business Casual

Meals: Dinner

Reservations: Absolutely Required

Contact: +30 210 462 9620 /210 94 08 620

Address: Syngrou 303 & Dimosthenous

www.kollias.gr

 

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

 

 

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:55

Klima-Klima Wine Bar And Restaurant

Rhythmic, modern, innovative, the new wine-bar restaurant in Melissia is evolving into a popular hangout. Wines selected by oenologist Dimitris Chatzinikolaou and creations by Christopher Peskias in the kitchen.

Klima-Klima is not a club but it plays great music, giving the space rhythm and feeling, and the bar and tall tables create a lighter scene than would be expected from a bar-restaurant so dedicated to gastronomy. In the center of the restaurant is the bar, which is full of people drinking wine by the glass, snacking on cheese dishes and deli meats or ordering from the menu. Klima-Klima is a very beautiful shop, with modern and ergonomic furniture and round glass windows overlooking the pine trees of the adjacent square.

Address: Pan. Tsaldari 32-34, Melissia

Tel: 2106096786
Prices: € 24 - 28

 

By Dimitris Antonopoulos - translated by Eleni Georgiou

www.athinorama.gr

 

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

America has fast food chains. Greece has tavernas. While both offer inexpensive food (or, in the case of fast food chains, food-like substances), their operational philosophy could not be more different. This difference is epitomized by their respective seating. The fast food chair is uncomfortable; it is designed to be that way. The seat is hard plastic. This guarantees you’ll scarf down your meal and get out. The chair is bolted to the floor. This ensures that social interaction is kept to a minimum – no pulling up a chair to join a larger group.

By contrast, the classic Greek taverna chair is made for comfort. Its rush seat is soft. The back slats provide support as well as ventilation. The braces at the base lend stability (and a place to prop your feet) – stability for leaning in to participate in conversation or to help oneself to a meze in the center of the table. Plus it is light; chose your table and sit on down.

Greek people can spend hours at the taverna, eating their meals, drinking their ouzo, reading their paper and talking with friends. In a popular tavernas, there is at least one card game going at any time. If you prefer tavli (backgammon) you can usually find a set or two behind the bar.

Tavernas were just as popular in ancient Greece as they are in Greece today. Back then they were called kapeleion. Commenting on the ubiquity of tavernas in Athens and alluding to the militant Spartans, whose citizens were fed from common messes, Diogenes the Cynic said "tavernas are the canteens of Attica". Tavernas were a regular feature in the comedies of Aristophanes with their staff being a frequent target of his jokes.

Unfortunately, no example of an ancient taverna chair survives. We can only hope that they were as comfortable as the ones we sit on today.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

epikouria.com

 

 

Kalokerinos is one of the oldest and most traditional Greek tavernas, situated in the heart of Plaka, the oldest part of Athens, under the Acropolis. It combines excellent Greek cuisine and entertaiment. Our ballet of folk dancers will dance for you the most popular Greek dances and make you feel like Zorba - Live greek show - Folk dances - Mediterranean dishes - Fully air conditioned. This jubilant spot can be a bit touristy, but it's all in good fun. Diners are treated to authentic folk dances and songs, which perfectly complement traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Stuffed grape leaves, fried eggplant, and lamb dishes are tasty choices, as is grilled octopus. The restaurant is located in the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis, which contributes to the old-world atmosphere. Smart-casual attire. Reservations essential.

Taverna Kalokerinos
Kekropos 10, Athens 10558
Tel: +3 (210) 3232054
Fax: +3 (210) 3232054
E-mail: info@kalokerinos.gr

For their website: http://www.kalokerinos.gr/

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

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:45

"The Deli Bar" in Voula

Opening in 2008 the Deli bar has proved a very popular place for the International community, local long term expat residents and Greeks alike to enjoy great beer, tasty food and excellent company. Located on Voula high street (Vas Pavlou) you will always find a great crowd enjoying a cool beer on the comfortable outdoor seating or tucking into a tasty home cooked meal in the bar. In addition to the regular menu the Deli Bar brings you a wide selection of products you may desperately miss from back home in their deli/shop.

Shop

The Deli Bar sells an impressive range of British products like Marmite, Branston pickle, Patak's sauces and pastes, Horlicks, Bisto, HP Sauce, pork pies, sausages and back bacon etc so why not go for a beer and take away a taste of home.

Drinks

The Deli Bar have a superb draught Guinness, Kilkenny and Mythos plus many bottled beers and a wide range or spirits and soft drinks.

Food

Drop by at lunch time for the famous Deli Bar sandwiches, freshly made salads, steak and kidney pies, steak and guinness pies and chicken and mushroom pies which are absolutely delicious. 

What's happening?

 

Quiz night every Tuesday 8:30pm.

"The Hammers" Darts home team play every Monday.

Special events organized monthly, for example curry night, fish and chips night...

Coming Up.....

FRIDAY EVENINGS

LADIES HAPPY HOURS!!!

7:00 - 9:00 pm!

Join in and get involved!!

To view the menu click here

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30-12:00am
Saturday: 9:00-12ish am
Sunday: 12:00pm - 8:00pm

Address: Vas Pavlou 94, Voula
Telephone: 210 96 89 350
E-mail: info@delibar.gr

 

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

 

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:43

First Vegan-Raw Restaurant Yi In Glyfada

'Yi' or Γή in Greek, meaning Earth, a vegan-raw based restaurant in Glyfada was launched with respect and love for the 'green' diet and ideology. All of the dishes and products that Yi offers are lactose, sugar, and gluten-free. Sweeteners are made out of Yi's own syrups made out of dates, honey, raisins, figs, agave or maple syrup.

With many types of juices, milkshakes, desserts, salads, coffee, and alcoholic beverages, Yi offers a wide arrange of products which focus on the vegan-style diet.

Address: Grigoriou Lampraki 69, Glyfada

Tel: 2109648512

To read more, please visit: www.estiatoria.gr

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

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:37

The Butcher Shop In Gazi

In Gazi. Oh my God. I had no idea that you can get such good meat in Greece. If you fancy delicious burgers, sausages, steaks... this is where you want to eat. I love this place! The fries are also really, really good. Tables outside on both sides of the street (mostly pedestrians), and inside on the ground floor and upper floor. Plenty of space for a romantic 2-person table on the farther side of the street, or a bigger group just outside the restaurant, or inside on the ground floor. Upstairs you can sit on a little balcony, or inside. Your choice. Please go and eat here, you won't be disappointed!!

We found this place after being turned away from Mamacas because they did not have any available tables. Since it was already 10:30 p.m., we decided to walk up the street and simply look for an interesting place to eat.

We stumbled into this restaurant and we were glad we did. As the name implies, this is not a place for vegetarians. Meat, meat and more meat is focus of the menu. The meats that we ordered were simply prepared, grilled over an open fire and wonderfully seasoned. This is not a filet mignon restaurant. They use less expensive cuts but the texture and taste were great. Instead of lamb rib chop, they served lamb leg chop. While it is a tougher cut, the flavor is far superior. By the end of the meal, we all agreed that the menu was simple, basic and delicious, and that we had make a great decision in eating at this location. If you go, don't forget the salads, especially the one that has a lot of chopped mint. I can't remember the name of the salad, however, I really enjoyed it.

The dishes were fairly priced. The atmosphere was simple, fitting into the taverna category. They had both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu has an English translation and our waiter spoke English. The crowd, however, was strictly young adult Greeks. I did not hear any other language spoken in the restaurant other than Greek. The restaurant is located in the Gazi area which is, to my understanding, frequented more by Greeks than tourists.

Photo courtesy of Matt Barrett: http://www.athensguide.com/gazi/index.htm

Hours Daily noon-1am Location Gazi, Gazi-Kerameikos-Thissio Transportation Metro: Kerameikos Phone 210/341-3440 Prices Main courses 15€-30€ Credit Cards Not accepted.

 

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

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:32

Sq. Cafe Bar & Food

This place opened this summer, in an atmospheric, high-ceilinged 1850s building in the historic center of Athens, where Praxitelous Street meets Agiou Markou. Sq. Cafe Bar & Food is what its name says, an all day space, which combines modern and vintage elements, contemporary style cuisine created by great chef Konstantina Faklari. Some of her menu selections include fava beans with chorizo and smoked paprika oil, a pancetta with a spicy marinade and bean hummus, fresh ravioli with ricotta, prosciutto and sage, burger marinated in miso, salmon with grilled zucchini or beef burger with gorgonzola and crispy prosciutto.

Don't forget to try one of the special cocktails - Try the Passion Affair - it's served in a jam jar and translates into a nice mix of cachaca, honey and caramel syrup and passion fruit.

Praxitelous 43 and Agiou Markou, center, 2103210460.

By Angela Stamatiadou

translated by Eleni Georgiou

athinorama.gr
 

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

Monday, 16 February 2015 09:28

Food Mafia In Glyfada

The first thought that I had reading the large, one-page menu at Food Mafia was that this place is worth returning to a second and even a third time. The concept of a menu that encompasses flavors and aromas from around the world combined with the undeniable talent of Elias Skoulas are definitely intriguing.

Simply read the menu and you will understand. Rethymno borders on Vietnam, octopuses flirt with snails and the variety of flavors and aromas is taken to the extreme. And this is just on the first visit. After that, it’s up to you.

Full dinner: 30 – 40 euro per person without wine

Address: Laodikis and Filikis Eterias 10 Esperidon Square Glyfada

Open for lunch as well.

Written by Dionysis Koukis

Translated by Eleni Georgiou

athinorama.gr

 

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

Wednesday, 13 November 2024 12:41

Local Facebook Groups

This article has been created for your ease of reference in finding Facebook groups that are for English-speakers living in Greece. Please keep in mind that these are groups created and managed by others on Facebook. XpatAthens is not responsible for the content nor if they are no longer valid.
 
If you would you like to see your group on this page, let us know here.
This group is a place for you to communicate with other girls in that are in the same boat as you. You can ask questions, share ideas, post fun events, anything really! The idea is to have a sense of community while living away from 'home'. Oh, and meet up for drinks ;)
This is a group with the purpose of getting people of similar cultural backgrounds all together, on and off Facebook. It does not serve as an advertising group. Prime interest is to bring people together and to have fun.
Expats from any countries living (and working) in Greece. Tips about the day-day life, jobs, events.

Find a Job in Athens
This group was created to help people find a job in Athens, Greece. If you are looking for some work, if you are aware of some open vacancy or maybe you are in a position to offer a job - please share this information here and hopefully, it will change your or someone else's life :-)

A networking group for all us foreign girls/women who for one reason ( a man? ) or another (job, adventure?) have ended up living in Greece.
We will arrange Girls' Nights where life in Greece can be discussed, wine enjoyed, etc etc. Most important for this group and any events arranged is: the more the merrier! So please invite any of your foreign girlfriends to join the group!!!
The group is created for foreigners living in Greece and Greeks to get in touch, exchange ideas, impressions about their startups, the challenges, achievements, and any useful information to get around.
Being a "new mother-to-be" I found myself with soooo many questions and very few clear cut answers as to how to approach this new chapter of my life here in Athens. So thought I would start this offshoot to "foreign girls living in Athens" and create a group where mothers and pregnant women can exchange advice and experiences.
This is a group that welcomes Blokes and Sheilas from Down Under who have made the big move and now LIVE OUT IN THE STICKS (greece). So if your FAIR DINKUM and are willing to 'HAVE A GO YOU MUG' come join the rest of the FLAMING GALAHS and be a SPORT MATE.
The International Club was formed to give a regular meeting point for foreigners, Greeks born abroad and Greeks living in Athens. The idea of this group is that is that members can meet the other foreigners living in this city, make friends and create a network together. Most of all though, it's to have fun!

This group is for you to sell & buy anything that's electronic from laptops to mobile phones. ATHENS, GREECE!!

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