To Potami (the river) in Koukaki is one of my favorite all-day café/bars in Athens. I’m so lucky to live so close to it! I much prefer it to the hipper, more pretentious Bel Ray that’s practically next door.

With its cheap prices, great service, relaxed/alternative atmosphere and its ideal location on the quiet Olympiou pedestrian street — right across a little park, yet practically next to the central Syggrou Ave — it ticks every box I can think of.

What I love most about To Potami is coming in the afternoon, getting an americano and sitting always at the same spot, at the table right next to the entrance; all the times I’ve been there it’s never been occupied! I then happily work in a social, relaxed environment, doing some people-watching on the side. Around this time it’s usually also the brightest, and I love those huge windows it has that let the sun to stream in.

To Potami is also great for drinks like tsipouro and typical meze snacks. I don’t really eat here usually but I did order a cabbage salad once, which was pretty good.

Half the year, when the weather is good enough to sit outside without complaint, you’ll be happily doing that in the cozy atmosphere created by its colourful outdoor lights and tables under the trees.