OKIO: This new kid on the block quickly managed to make waves and be deemed worthy of the Michelin guide accolades! Okio comes with a cool atmosphere, and a laid-back vibe. Okio is a small but rather charming space dominated by the simplicity of Scandinavian minimal aesthetics, with solid chic wood furniture and clean-cut interiors. Mediterranean-inspired cuisine from all around the world is prepared by an awarded Executive Chef and an awarded Head Chef and their team.
Tip from a Local: The sharing style menu is seasonal, so be prepared to try new creations every few months. Begin with the amazing sourdough bread with homemade butter, but be careful to save enough space for their excellent contemporary dishes. We have tried all seasonal menus from this gem, and with hand to heart, it is not often that we leave a restaurant without being able to determine what we liked the most!
Contact details: Nikis 33 & Navarchou Nikodimou 3, +30 2103311436, https://www.okio.gr/ (5min walk from Syntagma square, 11min walk from Monastiraki square, 20min walk from Omonia square).
Nolan: A unique & sleek foodie hotspot, with a menu lacking geographical restrictions, and food that does not belong to any one category. With dishes rooted in Greece, , Nolan takes influence from everywhere, whether from the street food of Japan or classic fried chicken or your grandmother’s beans. Dishes are fresh, colorful, well balanced, finely executed and are served in the middle of the table to encourage sharing. Nolan is commonly billed as the pioneer of Athens’ blooming Greek-Asian fusion scene, and has recently been awarded a “Bib Gourmand” by the Michelin Guide for it’s simple, skillful cooking and good price-quality ratio.
Tip from a Local: Book Early. If there is no available spot for dinner, it may be easier to find a table for lunch. Portions of the menu change frequently, but certain bestsellers are always available and for a very good reason. Do not miss Nolan Fried Chicken, the cod Burger, lamp donburi, soba noodles with smoked salmon and tahini. Every dish will awaken all of your taste buds, and have you asking for more! P.S. Don’t forget to visit Nolan’s pastry shop next door!
Contact details: Voulis 31-33, +30 2103243545, https://nolanverse.com/nolan/ (3min walk from Syntagma square, 9min walk from Monastiraki square, 17min walk from Omonia square).
NYX (Japanese Fusion Gastro Pub): NYX is located at the top floor of the Academias Hotel, offering a magical dinner with views overlooking the Acropolis, Lycabettus hill, and a large part of city center Athens. The interior is elegant with dark tones, atmospheric lighting, minimal Japanese aesthetics, and elegant flowers that add an urban feel to the space. The bar is large and unique, and the bartenders create delicious cocktails to pair with your meal. Exceptional fresh and raw produce becomes the base of a fascinating selection of a unique fusion Japanese cuisine, with additional elements from the cuisines of Italy and Peru, perfectly balanced to offer a unique culinary result.
Tip from a Local: Come for dinner at this glamorous rooftop lounge for the luscious Japanese fusion delicacies, hand crafted cocktails and impeccable views. Our suggestion is to try the Tuna Truffle Usuzukuri, Seabass ceviche, Japanese Trout Salad, Beef gyoza, Seabream / bok choy / parsnip purée / shiso tempura / ginger sauce and Hamachi Nigiri / shiso / jalapeño cream / tobiko yuzu, paired with a cocktail of your choice.
You can also visit just for drinks or nibble sushi at the bar.
Contact details: Omirou 19 (Academias Hotel), +30 698 151 8000 , https://nyxrooftop.com/ (9min walk from Syntagma square, 17min walk from Monastiraki square, 16min walk from Omonia square).
