In 1900 in the center of Athens between the avenues Stadiou and Panepistimiou, the "Stoa Arsakeiou" was built. It has a characteristic glass roof that allows the daylight to diffuse in the area and for sure it's riveting when you entering. Later, in 1996 when trying to create a center of culture as an offering to the world of literature, "Stoa tou Vivliou" by the "Filekpaideftiki etaireia" (Educational company) was created in the same place.
In Stoa Vivliou you can find and visit many important publishing houses with Greek and foreign publications especially if you are looking for something more specific. On the roof you can find the "Polis Art Cafe" which is a meeting point for the artists. There, except to enjoy your coffee, you can also at times enjoy many different artistic events and book presentations. It's also important to mention that in the basement of the complex is the historic art theater "Karolos Koun" where you can attend remarkable theatrical plays.
This place is the center of culture and intellect. Its historic meaning and prototype conceptual design and manufacturing always bring to mind the moments I have spent there drinking my coffee, reading my book and enjoying a pleasant break during my walk around the center of Athens.
By the end of 2021 we expect a food-hall inside Stoa Arsakeiou that will offer locals and international visitors a taste of Greece’s finest foods and flavors as they are taken on a gastronomical tour of the entire country.
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A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
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Matchpoint's interior is tastefully decorated, and the music is lovely but my favorite is sitting outside enjoying my drink and watching the world go by.
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Ode to socks has made good use of the local greek heroes such as the priest (pappa), the priest's wife, the sailor, and the fisherman, who are characteristic figures in every Greek's childhood.
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There are always dishes of the day in addition to the set menu, so no two visits to Mandragoras are ever the same. And kontosouvli is always available.
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Every time I cross Evripidou Street, I am overwhelmed by the aroma of cinnamon, pepper, and oregano, and images of Eastern bazaars come to mind.
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My two favorites are Sfakianopita with honey and the famous Dakos. Every plate is cooked in olive oil with lots of rosemary.
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In addition to ramen (my favourite is the Classic Shoyu), you can taste excellent sushi and try several other traditional dishes.
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Mauricio the cat likes to carry the latest publications, bringing attention to quality and design, and often hosts events such as reading time meetings with popular authors for his little friends.
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"Prigkiponisia" is one of my favorite pastry shops in Palaio Faliro, Athens. They're well known for their tsoureki bread & ice cream
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"Koukaki", the neighborhood in the center of Athens, is my favorite neighborhood anywhere in the world! Just come explore -- you won't regret it...
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"The Clumsies" in Athens - my personal 'love at first sight'. This bar is different: let the world-class bartenders charm you with their cocktails...
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262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters