One of my favourite walks in Athens is in the picturesque and peaceful neighbourhood of Ano Petralona. Starting from Filopappos Hill, I go downhill towards Troon Street to end up at Merkouri Square. On the way, I come across the well-kept detached houses of the previous decades, the small gardens, the local stores, and the numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants of the area.
My walk usually ends up in Valitsa (which means suitcase in Greek), a beautiful cafe and restaurant. First of all, Valitsa has a unique interior, with one wall covered by old, authentic suitcases. The suitcases have different colours and sizes, some in good condition and others damaged by the passage of time. When you look at them, it is as if they all want to tell you their stories. Valitsa also houses a grocery store with traditional Greek products.
But don't forget that all of these are accompanied by a variety of extraordinary Greek dishes. Although the main influences are from Cretan cuisine, you will also taste flavours from other parts of Greece. Among the dishes that stand out are zucchini flowers stuffed with rice, skioufihta (traditional pasta) baked in the oven, and stuffed sausages (with sun-dried tomato and feta cheese). However, a special mention must be made of the excellent "Valitsa" salad (a nest of dough with lola, arugula, sun-dried tomato, walnut, green apple, and Gruyere flakes). Valitsa is a well-welcoming place with great food, excellent decoration and service with a smile.
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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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