
XpatAthens
The Butcher Shop In Gazi
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!
Sq. Cafe Bar & Food
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!
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
Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!
Local Facebook Groups
Find a Job in Athens
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!!!
Celebrating The Christmas Holidays In Athens
Athens may not be on the most popular list for Christmas destinations, however it offers its visitors a wide range of choices, making Christmas a unique experience! To begin with, Christmas in Athens isn't accompanied by bitter cold and snow. Outings outdoors are easily enjoyed and you can even have coffee or lunch under heaters at one of the many great spots in the city. Wander the streets and watch the street performers and listen to the sounds of wandering musicians! Whether they play classical Christmas melodies or Greek traditional carols with a santouri or a clarinet, the outcome is the same - they create this particular spirit of joy and sentiment.
Just like many large cities during at time of year, Athens organize various festivities and events in many locations around the city. The center of festivity is at Syntagma - central square directly in front of parliament; the city Christmas tree is set up and the entire square is decorated festively for the holidays.
The merry and festive mood can be felt just about everywhere. Decorated streets, smiling faces, lights, music, children being photographed with balloons, fairy floss, candy. Let's not forget the freshly roasted chestnuts sold on almost every street corner and of course the lottery ticket vendors, who try to convince you that the new year will most definitely be YOUR LUCKY YEAR!!
The whole festive atmosphere is felt throughout the shopping districts and especially along Ermou Street which is typically full of people shopping and enjoying a leisurely time in central Athens. At Kotzia Square, opposite the City Hall of Athens, there is typically a large market selling books, jewelry, handicrafts, rugs, candy, and lots and lots of other things! Another place which gathers a lot of people within the city is Zappeio - just a quick walk from Syntagma Square. Almost every day in every corner of the city, something is always happening. Concerts, theatrical shows, performances, and all for free! For a complete program of events happening in Athens this Christmas & New Years 2015, please click HERE.
For those who would like to see a little snow and have 3-4 days at your disposal, then Arachova is a close and popular winter destination. It belongs to the county of Viotia, located three hours away from Athens, and where you will find the Parnasos Ski center, with its large slopes offering all levels of difficulty. There are many hotels and guesthouses there, and you may also visit the Oracle of Delphi, located nearby.
If you are fond of snowboarding, then head to the Ski center at Mainalou, in the county of Arcadia. Kalavryta is another great option during the winter in Greece and there you'll find one of the best ski centers in Greece. Another attraction for visitors is the rack and pinion railway, which has operated the route from Kalavryta to Diakofto since 1896, through a landscape of unrivalled beauty.
Celebrating the Christmas holidays in Athens offers something for everyone! Enjoy!
Elias Chimney Cleaning & Repair Services
With over 20 years of trusted experience in chimney cleaning and repair, Elias offers clean, top-quality work at very approachable pricing for both homes and apartments. Service is available 7 days a week anywhere within Attica!
To book your appointment call Elias at 697 6825484 or email: ilias-vergos@hotmail.com.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
1. It is very dangerous to use a fireplace (and its chimney) if it's not routinely cleaned.
2. Freshly cut and damp wood produce more smoke than dry wood.
3. A chimney windbreak hat is necessary for better ignition and in order to avoid over-smoking.
4. Chimneys should be cleaned every 2 tons of wood burned.
5. Cleaning your chimney reduces the harmful substances contained in smoke and released into the atmosphere.
6. A proper chimney cleaning reduces the risk of fire and any other subsequent damage to your home.
Safeway Transport
All you have to do is simply contact SAFEWAY TRANSPORT for your "stress free" move and leave the rest to us!
Kae International Movers
International Movers is an expert removal company, specialized in packing, storing and transporting household goods and office effects both domestically and internationally. We have an extensive range of moving services which we provide to organizations and private individuals.
Kae International Movers has affiliated offices worldwide through the representation of Euromovers International and IAM memberships. Kae International have their own offices in GREECE and the CZECH REPUBLIC. Our vision is to become the preferred choice for moving individuals, corporate and organizations by providing our clients with cost-effective, high-level quality services in global moving and relocation.
We aim to achieve this through:
Creating transport solutions that match the requirements of each client.
- Operating in a cost effective manner to deliver "value for money"
- Employing the highest standards of work and commitment to our customers to ensure a smooth, seamless, safe operation that delivers and surpasses our customers’ expectations.
- Partnering with same quality service providers which reach all parts of the globe.
- Recruiting, training and developing people who have the desire to serve.
Chris' Animal Hotel
Chris’s Animal Hotel is situated in the countryside of Kalivia Attiki, ideally positioned only 10 minutes from Athens Airport. The proprietor is Christine Graves (Dip.Dog.Psy Dip.Dogtraining.St Dip.Vetnurse), an animal lover who is a British citizen with many years experience working with animals. All animals are cared for in the most professional and friendly manner; to help reduce the amount of stress an animal may feel in a boarding situation.
I also accept long term boarding for pets that will travel to the UK or Abroad; I can also arrange the relevant vaccinations, blood test etc. needed by the pet travel scheme.
NEW! International Pet Relocation Service - Visit the Relocation page on our site for details.
Hopscotch International Kindergarten
Established in 1997, Hopscotch International Kindergaten is located in a quiet area of Vari behind Jumbo, surrounded by 1000 square metres of garden. We are a dedicated English speaking Nursery and Kindergarten. With our open door policy and small groups, we offer a warm and welcoming environment for children and parents alike. We accept children from the age of two and offer a fun packed, full, activity based day, either on a full time or a part time basis and we accept registrations throughout the year.
By following the British Early Years Foundation Programme, we fully prepare our reception/kindergarten children for entry into all the English speaking schools' first grades.
If you would like to experience our unique environment for yourself, please feel free to call and make an appointment.
Contact: Helena Scott