I was walking down Veikou in Athens, wondering where in Koukaki I should have lunch, when I ran into Niobe, a friend of Marilena's who works at Lacandona. I awkwardly told her, as you do when you don't really know what else to tell acquaintances that pop up in front of you in the street, that I was hungry. "Why don't you visit Peas, that tiny new place on Falirou? They're vegan!" she suggested. "Actually, I got a pita from there half an hour ago. I just saw him, but say hi to George for me anyway!"
That's exactly what I did. It was hard for me to choose between the tofu/tempeh/seitan pitas and the raw vegan tart, but I finally opted for the latter: the blended and layered cashews, zucchini, sun-dried tomato and basil formed a creamy, modestly-sized yet surprisingly filling slice.
Vegan has become a worldwide trend, so it's rather more expensive to eat out at dedicated places such as this one than it is to have the less glamourous, more 'traditional', but just as meat-and-dairy-free dishes that are still the hearty cornerstones of the Greek cuisine, like dolmadakia, gemista or assorted bean dishes like gigantes. Unless you can really splash out the dough (and I don't mean make homemade seitan), vegan food of this calibre is not something to be enjoyed every day.
Nevertheless, Peas' cheerful and passionate team, their delicious treats and the super-minimalist decor left me with positive energy and a clearer mind.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Athens guide.
It's really close to both Akropoli and Syggrou-Fix metro station, it has a nice vibe, a great selection of Greek international dishes and large portions!
By
I've been here with friends and they've all been amazed at the low prices, cool vibe and '90s memorabilia. Even the cocktails are named after Pokemon!
By
Once you enter, you will be amazed by the Japanese-cool decoration, especially by the huge blue mural with the 3D elements and the pink circle.
By
Although Kalos Aeras is located on a busy road, there is no noise penetrating the leafy veranda, and stepping into the house is like time-traveling back to the 60s.
By
Plateia Proskopon is surely not as hip as Plateia Varnava or other spots in Pagrati but has a unique atmosphere.
By
I just love the chocolate-covered nuts in 1001 Geyseis! I recently tried the cocoa-covered pecan nuts and hopefully one day I will try all the variety the store has to offer!
By
Entering Agias Zonis is like getting into a literal comfort zone. Although it starts from the bustling pedestrian zone of Fokionos Negri, Agias Zonis is a well-kept secret.
By
There are actually three falafel places located next to each other in Plateia Vathis (Vathis square). All three places are equally good, offering huge portions for a great price.
By
Located on the top of Lycabettus hill, the highest spot of the city right in the center of Athens, it is a steep walk to reach Prasini Tenta, but just the view itself is worth the hike.
By
After filling your basket with pickled mushrooms and the lavash puff bread, try the candy bars with the illustrated packaging reminding you of the Soviet Union days.
By
"O Lefteris" in Athens makes souvlaki the way our fathers & grandfathers like them best: no gyros, no tzatziki, no fries; just meat, pita, tomato & onion.
By