In a neighborhood that's struggling to find its new identity without betraying its glorious past, Laika appeared as an unexpected gift. Ntepo, in the eastern part of Thessaloniki, is pretty famous for its rich past & its fine examples of neoclassical architecture but definitely not for recreation. The name of the cafe comes from the legendary dog that was selected to escort a Soviet spacecraft and died during the flight.
Laika cafe popped up in November of 2017 showing us that you can create a cosy, unique place even in a mainly residential area. In a typical day in Laika, you will listen to jazz music, look at paintings at the current art exhibition and watch the extraordinary mix of people that are hanging out there. That mix of people mainly consists of students that come alone to study, alternative Thessalonians around thirty and classy older people.
You could say that Laika cafe spatially encompasses three different sensations into one place. The 'artistic interior' with the paintings and the small but important charming details, the 'invigorating garden' in the back with a relaxing view at the small park and the 'urban entrance' that is gazing the busy Antheon street, just across the downfallen and notorious abandoned Allatini factory.
Interestingly, Laika is a strictly non-smoking cafe. Now, except from the interesting local beers, coffee and spirits, after 20:30 you can try Laika's small but delicate food menu. Don't be afraid to 'travel solo' in Laika, the charming atmosphere will make you feel like home.
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Particularly beautiful is the small dome with the depictions of Christ “Pantokrator” (Almighty) and the Apostles. And the neoclassical bell tower...
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The iconostasis is just incredible! Pay attention to the dragons beneath the Cross on the top, they allude to the story of Prophet Jonah...
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The church itself is dated to ca. 1300. The masonry and arrangement of the exterior are some of the most beautiful in the entire city.
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The current edifice was built in 1727. On the same site, there had been a 12th-c. Byzantine monastery, also dedicated to the Virgin that burnt down around 1690.
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Even a tiny church in Thessaloniki can be a pearl! One of the smallest (if not the smallest of all) is the “Sotirakis” chapel. “Sotirakis” means little Sotiris.
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If you are an art lover, this is your spot! The core of Teloglion’s collection is that of Nestor and Aliki Teloglou, a couple passionate about art.
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The building was perhaps built in the middle or in the second half of the 14th century. That period was characterized by unprecedented artistic flourishing in the city.
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"Gorilas" in Thessaloniki is run by an expert, world-class bartender, so you know the drinks are tantalizing for the senses. Also: don't miss the brunch!
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"Massalia stin Thessaloniki" quickly became the talk of the town in 2014 when it opened. Today, this restaurant systematically exceeds my expectations.
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In front of the promenade of Thessaloniki, there are innumerable cafes. The presumable question that a visitor may have is: “Which one should I choose?”. I have the answer! Of course, “Castello”.
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The Chapel of Hosios David in the Upper City (Ano Poli) is dedicated to St. David of Thessaloniki, a monk who lived on an almond tree.
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