Have a look at the picture above. Can you see the little poster on the bottom right corner? It's of Steven Wilson's 2016 release 4½. While I wouldn't count it as one of his greatest works, the mere fact that poster is there is very important for me: Mr. Wilson is probably the first person that pops to mind when people ask me what kind of music I like or who my favourite musician is. He's said to be the best musician to not have hit the mainstream.
It was therefore an exciting surprise when I entered Record House, my neighbourhood music store, and saw that they were almost as unapologetically in love with the guy as I am, if not more (it was hard typing this out). Yes, I'm so obsessed, I didn't even mention Nick Waterhouse, the artist on the album the lady's holding in the picture (thanks Marilena).
Shops with used music are getting easier to find all around the world, but a place where you can catch up on new releases can be trickier. Record House has been around since 1971. That's 45+ years of cassettes, vinyl records, CDs, concerts DVDs, box-sets, last-minute gifts, collector's items, "if I like XYZ what else will I like?" suggestions from the assistants, incredible atmosphere and a central location in the commercial centre of Nea Smyrni.
Even my mum used to shop records here!
Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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Plateia Proskopon is surely not as hip as Plateia Varnava or other spots in Pagrati but has a unique atmosphere.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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