Insider 103 May - June 2012

THE CITY MAGAZINE OF

May & June 2012 Year 10. Issue 103 â‚Ź4.50 ISSN 1790-3114

insider athens

| May & June 2012

ATHENS

A summer of change Quo Vadis Greece / Coastal Guide: A tour of Mikrolimano, Piraeus and Glyfada / Athens' Cultural Summer Fest / Bicycle Art / Digital jewellery / Idyllic holidays at Costa Navarino / Skiathos getaways Plus: Brewing up a storm / Scandi-licious Safka / London 2012 PLUS: ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MAPS AND MORE

city smart and by the sea

13 Agiou Nikolaou str. 166 71 Vouliagmeni, Athens Greece T +30 210 8990391 • F +30 210 8955790 • E-mail: info@amarilia.gr • www.amarilia.gr

Sudha Nair-Iliades

Why does Greece thrive on its annihilistic tendencies to hurtle itself to the brink of self-destruction time and again? Is it the same daredevil attitude that Greek drivers indulge in to race with no safety nets? Will we end up being a nation that specialises in constructing little shrines by the roadside to our past follies? Will we keep changing our enemy du jour from Angela Merkel to the troika to Christine Lagarde - anybody - but hold ourselves responsible? My friend Michalis who works with the Greek Federation of Industry draws the analogy with a drug addict. “The urge to stop selfobliteration has to come from within.”

publisher’s note With so much at stake for Greece in the next few days, the one thing we so desperately need and lack is for a visionary to have the courage to really ‘communicate’ to the Greeks on the need to wake up and understand the reality we find ourselves in. At the risk of sounding like a scold, I find it perturbing how little young Greeks know of their immediate history and of the gravity of their current situation.

Will Greece be swept away by myopic, populism yet again or is this an amazing opportunity to mend our ways?

To find a few answers, Athens Insider organised an impromptu Think Tank with ten Hellenophiles on where Greece would go from this point on. The outlook varied from realistic pessimism to cautious optimism but the one thing we all agreed on was the urgent need to establish Greece’s image - hopefully not as a band-aid measure that would peel off after the first wash.

“This crisis has spilled beyond being an economic crisis, it is now a credibility crisis”, Peter Economides, one of the invitees insists. Eric Aronis, who has serious reservations of Greece crawling out of its financial and moral bankruptcy believes that “for the packaging to work, the product would need an overhaul too.” Economides counter-argues with, “People need to feel good about themselves to want to change.”

Here’s to change and to feeling good, then. What we need to wish for is kales allages, not kali synechia.

Sudha Nair-Iliades

Publisher - Editor Sudha Nair - Iliades Art Director Alexandra Platania

Website management Christos Athanassoulis

Distribution Hellenic Distribution Agency Subscriptions

Insider Publications Ltd. located at Markou Botsari 16 A 117 41 Athens, Greece.

Telephone: 210.729.8634 Fax: 210.729.8635.

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Contributors in this Issue Mike Sweet, Simrin Jhangiani, Anamela Agrodimou, Eleni Kefalopoulou

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Founder Steve Pantazopoulos

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insider athens | May & June 2012 1

contributors Michael Sweet

A documentary producer for BBC Television in the 90s, Michael worked in broadcasting in South Asia before establishing his TV production business in Australia. He lived in Athens for almost four years before moving back to Melbourne and has continued contributing to Athens Insider and for the English language edition of Australia’s largest circulation Greek newspaper, Neos Kosmos. Michael combines his writing with producing independent documentary films.

Eleni Kefalopoulou was born in Thessaloniki and studied drama and civil engineering. Working as an actress and translator for TV and cinema, she loves travelling, wine-tasting and discovering secrets of regional cuisines. She has followed many wine seminars in Greece and enjoys discovering the fruits of small wineries, both in Greece and further afield.

Kostas Bekas

Kostas Bekas was born and raised in Athens and has been capturing Athens’ rich social and diplomatic life for the past twenty years. A regular contributor to Athens Insider and Bonjour Athenes, Kostas has been the official photographer to several multinationals and embassies.

16-year old Simrin has lived in 6 different countries in 4 continents. Having lived in Athens for 7 years, Simrin brings a fresh, young perspective to a city that she spent the biggest chunk of her childhood in. Her itinerant existence has meant an incredible facility to explore places and meet interesting personalities.

Languages are a huge part of embracing cultures, and Simrin, who is fluent in English, French and Spanish hopes to use her skills to good effect to discover the complexities and interconnectedness of the world we live in.

Alexandra Platania

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Simrin Jhangiani

Alexandra was born and raised in Athens. With a passion for the creative arts, Alexandra studied graphic design and has been working for the past six 7 years at Travel Plan. Mother of two adorable children, Elina andYiorgos, Alexandra ia a keen animal lover and is fluent in English, French and Greek.

Christos studied Political Science and History at Panteion University in Athens. An avid traveller who has backpacked across several obscure destinations, Christos loves fast cars and makes times for football over the weekends. A social media professional, Christos now manages Insider’s website.

Anamela Agrodimou

Eleni Kefalopoulou

Christos Athanassoulis

Anamela studied Tourism & Marketing in Madrid and speaks English, French and Spanish fluently.

Having worked in the hospitality industry, Anamela enjoys yoga, dancing and good cinema. She has now joined Insider Publications as a Public Relations executive.

contents

16 24 30

Features

Departments

Arty Spokes-person 16 Mary Cox examines the bicycle to provide a contemporary aesthetic

holiday with a bit of something for everyone, while basking in the lap of opulence

My Athens 18 Gallerist Elena Marneri on Athens finding her soul again

38 A getaway for the stars Mandraki Village on the island of Skiathos, a discreet boutique hotel that offers quiet luxury

Quo Vadis Greece 24 In a month that catapulted Greeks into an abyss of chaos and uncertainty, ten Athenians share their visions on the way out for Greece from its credibility crisis Athens’ Annual Summer Fest 28 The Athens Festival puts on a brilliant summer show showcasing 500 artists from 50 countries.

Posidonia Guide 30 A round-up of the trendiest cafes and restaurants by the sea Raising the Bar 34 Dimitris Stavropoulos offers legal counsel to international businesses and Greek businesses exploring opportunities abroad A holistic holiday destination 36 Costa Navarino offers a complete

Digital Jewellery 40 Katerina Agrafioti transforms the humble compact disc into art Healthy Body, Healthy Mind 42 Personal trainer Konstantinos Agrodimos on Pilates Brewing up a Storm 44 Costas Nikias, shares a pint with Mike Sweet in Melbourne and expands on the trends in micro-brewing Scandi-licious Smorgasbord 46 Safka impresses with Finnish chef Samu Koskinnen’s refined cuisine and a minimalist aesthetic The eternal Olympic flame The Olympic torch lighting ceremony for London 2012

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Arts and Events 6 Entertainment

14

Art

16

Society

20

Fast Lane

22

Debate

24

Culture

28

Business

34

Travel

36

Agora

40

Wellness

42

Gastronomy

44

Restaurant review 46 Kaleidoscope

72

36 40 44 46 72 Cover picture: Insider

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www.chanel.com

LINEA PIU - 6, SEKERI ST. ATHENS 106 74 TEL: 210 36 06 125

Arts & events

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25 may

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26 may

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2 june

Gagosian Gallery Athens

Astrolavos Artlife

Ileana Tounta

The Breeder

Dan Colen: Blowin’ in the Wind 1 Colen’s art combines the intensity of real life with reflection on the subjects of immanence and belief, taking up with the objects encountered along his path in order to revitalize the syntax of painting. “Blowin’ in the Wind” consists of three related groups of work. In the first, pages from a nudie calendar have been manipulated with paint and pasted trash to create interplay between control, chaos, beauty and abjection. The second is a grouping of collages that use mismatched letters cut out of stained, smeared wrappers and packaging. The third is a selection of readymade trash objects. www.gagosian.com

Sofia Tounta The new work by Sofia Tounta consists of a series of metal sculptures that depict plants, fruits and parasites. The possible forms, adding brightly colored, are provocative and yet attractive to visitors. They look like fossils of a bygone era, but bearing the freshness and intensity of today. www.astrolavos.gr

Maro Michalakakos 2 The exhibition title «I Would Prefer Not To» is inspired by the enigmatic character of Herman Melvill’s Bartleby. Facing space as a philosophical entirety and not just as an environment where things just happen, the artist presents two installations; “Red Carpet” and “Happy Days”.

For the first one, the pile of the velvet is being removed and for the second the process of abstraction; the sound and the red fluff falling down, become artwork. Both these installations have direct references to authority, power, as well as the forced intimacy between life and death. www.art-tounta.gr

Mindy Shapero: Blinded by the Light The exhibition will be introducing sculptures, objects and large paper works giving a manifold outlook on Shapero’s onerous latest creations. All of her works rotate around a complex mythology she herself created in the last decade. For Shapero the material she works with, often recycled and full of traces relating to the narrative or to precedent artworks, is a necessity to convey the intangible. By shifting constantly between her oneiric eye and reality Shapero charges the empty material with extraordinary meaning, giving us the opportunity to widen our own perspective. www.thebreedersystem.com

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On the town For location details see listings on page 63

3

until

4

2 june

Lemos Centre Oinopoia 3 A unique exhibition organized

by Louisa Kalligas, daughter of John Kalligas who contributed significantly to the history of Greek wines and in the creation of wineries Katogi and Strofilia.

Greek vineyards have been producing wine and contributing to the development of local communities for centuries. In this unique exhibition celebrating wine, 42 painters, sculptors, designers and architects exhibit three-dimensional works of art from different materials inspired by the magical liquid.

until

3 june

Byzantine and Christian Museum 4 Yiannis Lassithiotakis: Faces Yiannis Lasithiotakis presents a group of paintings entitled “Faces” at the Byzantine and Christian Museum. His painting focuses on studying the human form, a matter the artist has been exclusively interested in for the last 10 years. The metaphysical and psychological interest of the portraits, the stillness and contemplative and melancholy figures, the frontal and the frequent absence of background are some of the elective affinities with the paintings of Byzantine art. The exhibition features 31 works of recent years, many of which were created especially for this exhibition at the Byzantine Museum. www.byzantinemuseum.gr

10 6 10

until

june

june

june

B&M Theocharakis Foundation

Badminton Theatre

Christos Caras: Synopsis 1959 – 2012 The B&M Theocharakis Foundation presents a retrospective on Christos Caras, dedicated to one of the most important representatives of the so-called generation of the’60s. More than 70 works representative of his artistic career from 1959 to 2012 reveal the consistency of the visionary world and the unsurpassed power of his work in the most eloquent way.

Projects range from the abstract of his initial compositions to the dramatic, expressionistic compositions, resulting in sections of magical realism, surrealism and “poetry.” Christos Caras was honoured by the Academy of Athens in 2001 and in 2007, he donated his house on Hydra to create a Foundation that bears his name. www.thf.gr

Béjart Ballet Lausanne Three of the most important works of the repertoire of Maurice Béjart Ballet come to Athens and reintroduce us to the vision of that modern dance dreamer. The “voice” and “movements” of one of the founders of modern dance along with his ballet, which continues his personal vision, return to Badminton Theater with three very important choreographers: «Dionysos (suite) with music by Richard Wagner, costumes by Manos Hadjidakis and Gianni Versace ,« Syncope» creation of Béjart’s successor Gil Roman, and the famous « Bolero », the most emblematic choreography of Maurice Béjart, with music by Maurice Ravel. www.badmintontheater.gr

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Arts & events

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6

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10 june

The Image Gallery Eastern European Poster Art The Image Gallery will present more than 150 posters created in the countries known as “the Eastern bloc” in the 60’s and onwards. These posters are mainly from the world of cinema and exhibitions, concerts and festivals. www.theimage.gr

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until

10 june

Michael Cacoyannis Foundation The sixth floor The Michael Cacoyannis Foundation hosts the theatrical premiere of “The sixth floor”

by Alfred Gehri. The new staging of the show attempts a contemporary reading of this timeless play. Amid the financial crisis of the 30’s, a group of people – a microcosm of French society, coexist on the sixth floor of a Parisian apartment block.

The main axis of the comedy is featured by the unique adaptation of Anna Panagiotopoulou observing the life of people through their personal conflicts, their passions, love affairs, and above all their dreams.

until

& 10 101214 june

june

Hilton Lobby

Herod Atticus

The Hubs 5 Stathis Alexopoulos presents a new series of sculptures that include among others Venus de Milo, elegant horse heads, guitars and motorcycles. He chooses everyday objects and traditional themes and turns them into modern symbols.

Stathis Alexopoulos’ work was based on the basic structures of objects through his personal style and using shapes like stripes and straps that create “nodes” referring to the ancient technique of “mummification.”

The result is the redefinition of the object while maintaining its original form and visual character.

Athens Festival, Verdi’s Trovatore 6 As part of the Athens Festival, the first big summer production of the National Opera is Verdi’s grand opera Trovatore. The opera revolves around the story of four main characters including two brothers who are not aware of their kinship and love for the same woman.

On the town For location details see listings on page 63

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17

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Atopos Contemporary Visual Centre: Boris Hopek , Full of love With artworks by Boris Hoppek and curated by Vassilis Zidianakis, ‘Full of love’ is based on ‘Bimbo’, a character that expresses human sexualiy in a society where each and every individual has its own unique sexuality. The exhibition is part of ATOPOS’ new theme of research on the human body and sexual practices in the digital era. www.atopos.gr www.borishoppek.de

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29 june

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1 july

Citronne Gallery

a antonopoulos Art

Onassis Cultural Centre

“Inner Paradise”

by Aphrodite Litti 7 Gallery Citronne starts its 2012 summer period with the sculptural installation by Aphrodite Litti “Inner Paradise”. The main theme in Aphrodite Litti’s work is the in-depth exploration of the common points between the verb “rejoice” and the term “statues”. She perceives her art not as a series of equations but as variations of happiness’s promises. Her sculptures, made of bronze and iron, are often covered with colored glass tiles.

The very frequent zoomorphic and botanic elements compose a deeply architectural organization of the sculptural space with references to both contemporary art as well as the Orphic and Early Christian world. www.citronne.com

Mark Hadjipateras 8 For this current body of work, Mark Hadjipateras has evolved several new species of flora and fauna to inhabit his unique domain. Viewers will recognize many of his essential genetic building blocks, recombined.

There are also some distinctly original life forms, notably a stand of Trees, whose polelike trunks randomly sprout stalks and bulbous growths. Of approximately human height, the Trees have clearly organic origins with no trace of the mechanistic mutation that frequents Hadjipateras’ entities.

In another rather radical departure from the uniform monochromes that have characterized his free-standing sculpture in recent years, Hadjipateras gives the tree trunks a scumbled coloration that visually contradicts the smooth, burnished surface. www.aaart.gr

Faces An exploration of the estrangement of the individual, caught between self, the perception of self and society, and the feelings of solitude and spiritual alienation that ensue. John Cassavetes’ film Faces (1968) is the metaphor for this show, which focuses on artists who address the uncomfortable and often dramatic relation between the self, one’s self-representation, and the other. The works exhibited echo the sense of fragility that permeates Cassavetes’ narrative--be it affective, psychological or social. www.sgt.gr

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On the town For location details see listings on page 63

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10

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5 july

Bernier-Eliades Gallery Katerina Zacharopoulou, The House Katerina Zacharopoulou’s show, entitled “The House” is based on the true story of the construction of the miniature house of Petronella Oortman, the wife of a silk merchant who lived in Amsterdam during the 17th century. The actual Miniature House, which is a showcase of the real home is exhibited in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

In her video work, the artist reconstructs the showcasecabinet, in its true scale where one observes a woman who performs quotidian activities: walking, daydreaming, waiting.

Different versions of her appear at the same time, within or outside the window, emphasizing the passage of time. www.bernier-eliades.gr

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15 july

Benaki Museum, Pireos Annexe

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Sean Scully: Doric rhythms The exhibition’ Sean Scully’ is the first solo exhibition by the irishamerican artist Sean Scully in Greece. The presentation focuses on six monumental “Doric” paintings that the artist created in 2008. Scully’s works are often characterized for their architectural structure and their abstract and schematic character.

Along with the “Doric” paintings, the curator Sally Radic has selected other paintings of the artist from different periods of his early work in order to give the viewer the opportunity to explore other areas of Scully’s art. Scully’s source of inspiration stems from the Doric architecture which accompanied the birth of democracy in Greece. www.benaki.gr

until

16 september

Benaki Museum for the Islamic Arts Photography exhibition: The Arabs of the Mediterranean The exhibition is a photographic tour of pictures taken by Dora Minaidi and Maria Fakidi who have expertly captured the unique architecture in the countries that line the Mediterranean basin. From Syria and Jordan, the photographic journey captures Byzantine influences on Arab palaces and castles, Roman ruins in Palmyra, Christian churches and ancient Arabic architecture in Petra. In Libya and Morocco, the photographers capture the Greco-Roman cities of Sabratha and Leptis Magna. www.benaki.gr

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Museum of Cycladic Art Jannis Kounellis 10 World acclaimed artist, Jannis Kounellis exhibits a new and site specific work at the Museum of Cycladic Art. For his exhibition at the Museum of Cycladic Art,, Kounellis uses materials found in the local Athenian markets and junkyards. These objects carry the history of a city that has been through endless changes of populations and ideologies. Kounellis uses newspapers, coal, burlap sacks, old shoes and glasses, overcoats, soil and iron bars for this pieces that are spread out in the neoclassical building. The same objects carry personal memories and they can be symbols of desires and hope but also of failed dreams and aspirations.

FX

Programming Highlights June 2012

© TCFTD

HOT JUNE WITH KIEFER SUTHERLAND TOUCH – Sunday June 3 from 2pm • 24 Day 7 – Monday June 25 from 2pm For all the lovers of the world-famous Kiefer Sutherland, FX gives you a second opportunity to enjoy marathons with the agent/hero/almost superhero that we followed on the legendary ‘24’ and the sensitive father he plays in ‘Touch’. On Sunday June 3rd see the first 10 episodes of ‘Touch’ – the story of Martin Bohm (Kiefer Sutherland) a widower and single father who is haunted by an inability to connect to his emotionally challenged 11-year-old son Jake. But when Martin discovers that Jake can predict events before they happen, everything changes. In this global mosaic, a father and son lie at the center of the global connections we all share. As Jack Bauer in ‘24’ Kiefer Sutherland tortures and is tortured, kills and is almost killed, in an endless race against evil (in all its forms) and against the clock. The intensity of Sutherland’s portrayal of Bauer was awarded with an Emmy and Golden Globe for best lead actor in a TV series, but the greatest reward was his recognition as a pop culture icon. Enjoy episode 1-9, on Monday 25th June from 2pm until late!

AMERICAN HORROR STORY Sunday June 17 @ 22:30 American Horror Story revolves around the Harmons, a family of three who move from Boston to Los Angeles as a means to reconcile their past anguish. The all-star cast features Dylan McDermott as Ben Harmon, a psychiatrist; Connie Britton as Vivien Harmon, Ben’s wife; Taissa Farmiga as Violet, the Harmon’s teenage daughter; Jessica Lange in her Golden Globe winning TV role as Constance, the Harmon’s neighbor; The pilot episode of American Horror Story, shot in Los Angeles, was written by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk (Glee), and was directed by Murphy.

THE WALKING DEAD 2 Sunday June 24 @ 23.20 The FX series airs every Sunday after having set multiple viewership records in over 120 countries, received a Writers Guild of America Award nomination and a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Television Series Drama and strong Nielsen ratings, including 9 million viewers for its season two finale to become the most-watched basic cable drama telecast in history. The Walking Dead is an American postapocalyptic horror television series by Frank Darabont based on the comic book series ‘The Walking Dead ‘by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Charlie Adlard. The series stars Andrew Lincoln as sheriff’s deputy Rick Grimes who wakes up after being in a coma to find the world dominated by “walkers”, resembling the zombies of George A. Romero’s horror movies.

THE HOUR Monday June 4 @ 21:00 double episodes A drama and espionage thriller in Cold War-era England that centers on a journalist, a producer, and an anchorman for an investigative news program. It’s 1956 and a new topical news program is about to be launched on the BBC. The six-part drama written and created by the award-winning Abi Morgan takes you behind-the-scenes as a passionate love triangle develops in the newsroom.

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FOXlife

Programming Highlights June 2012

© FIC/AMC

© Disney

© OUTRIGHT

new SERIES MY GENERATION PREMIERE Sunday 10 June @ 21.50 An innovative new drama about hopes, dreams, love and loss experienced by a group of friends on their journey into adulthood. Jaime King (“Sin City,” “Pearl Harbor”), Mehcad Brooks (“True Blood”), Kelli Garner (“Going the Distance,” “Lars and the Real Girl”), Julian Morris (“Pretty Little Liars”) and Michael Stahl-David (“Cloverfield”) star alongside a talented ensemble cast. “My Generation,” a new scripted drama series following the stories of nine friends and the promise of what their futures could bring, how far they’ve come and how they got here, as told through the camera of a documentary film crew. In the premiere episode, “Pilot,” a documentary crew follows a disparate group of high school seniors from Greenbelt High School’s class of 2000 in Austin, TX as they prepare for graduation, and revisits these former classmates ten years later in 2010 to see where they are now, what they’ve become and where they’re still headed. The camera lenses reconnect with Steven Foster, “the overachiever” in high school, who succumbed to pressures and ended up escaping to Hawaii to surf and be a free spirit. However an unexpected call from Caroline Chung, the shy “wallflower,” has Steven returning to Austin after discovering that they have a nine-year-old son together, conceived on prom night. Upon returning, he bumps into Jackie Vachs, the high school “beauty queen” who went to Hollywood to become a starlet but came back and got married when that didn’t pan out. Their chance encounter exposes some chips in her veneer of marital bliss with Anders Holt, “the rich kid” whose charmed life took an unexpected turn after breaking up with his high school sweetheart and first love, Brenda Serrano. Brenda was the class “brain” who is now doing very well for herself as a high-powered Congressional aide in DC.

NEW SEASONS THE LISTENER 3 From Thursday 14 June @ 21.50 Back for Season 3, our beloved Toby the 28-year-old first year paramedic who’s never known his father and grew up in foster homes. Until now, Toby has kept his ability to listen to people’s surface thoughts a secret and the only one he has shared it with is his old counsellor and confidant, Dr. Ray Mercer (Colm Feore). While he crosses the city of Toronto in his ambulance with his partner Osman “Oz” Bey (Enis Esmer), Toby helps people in crisis and on the way come to terms with his own past. With the help of Detective Charlie Marks (Lisa Marcos) and his on-and-off girlfriend Olivia Fawcett (Mylène Dinh-Robic), an E.R doctor, Toby realizes that his gift can serve to help other people.

NEW SEASONS WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE 2 From Saturday 30 June @ 19.20 In each episode of Who Do You Think You Are? a celebrity embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unearths his or her family tree – revealing surprising, inspiring and sometimes tragic stories that are often linked to events in American history. We share intimate moments with the stars as they learn about their past, and how the struggles of their ancestors have shaped today’s world. Stars include Steve Buscemi, Kim Cattrall, Ashley Judd, Tim McGraw.

insider athens | May & June 2012 15

Arty Spokes-person Mary Cox subtly addresses social issues in Athens by combining motifs and psychedelic patterns with photographs and acrylics to create a dream-like reality

A

San Franciscan living in Athens for the past 19 years, Mary Cox’s new series of paintings currently on at gallery Artzone 42, “Dreamers in Reality”, examines the bicycle as an alternative, environmentally-friendly means of transportation that can bring communities together and provide a contemporary aesthetic composed from the natural world, mechanics, and the human body. For Mary, “My paintings aren’t created to send a political message. There are always personal reasons why I work on the themes that I do. This series on bicycles was conceived when I started riding with the Podilates group. It was so uplifting to be with a large group of forward thinking Greeks.”

Podilates, who model themselves on the Critical Mass group based in San Francisco, lobbies for more bike lanes and improved conditions for Athenian cyclists. “I didn’t connect to Greeks as much as when I rode with them.”

Mary’s passion for cycling comes through in her compositions that combine mixed media of various sizes on board or canvas employing different techniques from photography, printmaking, oil paintings, acrylics and collage to produce images that are both representational and abstract. “The process itself is called ‘acrylic gel transfer’ which is essentially a print of the photo mounted onto the canvas. You need to envision how all the layering will play out.”

Cox’s appreciation for the sheer beauty of the bicycle as an object is

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Art

both deconstructed and constructed and is demonstrated through photographs of bicycles and maps that are layered between repetitive motifs of bicycle parts and psychedelic patterns. Her bikes navigate the roads of Athens in a state of euphoria and transcendence. The dreamy atmosphere conveys a longing for a new reality, which seems at once possible and unattainable. In her work, one discerns a wish to escape from reality on the one hand, but also a metaphor for the wider theme of change, particularly in a time where the need for inspiration, creativity and alternative solutions is more pressing than ever.

Mary elaborates on her choice of themes, “The idea of change is something that attracts me and moves me.” Her art captures all that has changed in the urban landscape in the past decade but also dwells on the sheer beauty and lifestyle of Attica and its surroundings. A smaller group of oil paintings on canvas at the exhibition portray fantastical environments in which a game is played out between the real and the ideal.

Her next inspiration? The area she lives in - Varkiza. “Varkiza used to be a sleepy fishing village until not so long ago and there are still little shacks on beaches and by the water-front. So my next series is going to be on these little houses in Varkiza - a little reminder of how we once lived.”

Mary Cox holds an MFA from San Francisco's Academy of Art University. In recent years her work has addressed social issues in Greece. Her series about immigration, entitled "From Another Place", was selected for participation in the Lulea Art Biennial 2011, in Sweden. In 2010 she participated in the Bicycle Film Festival at the Mihalis Cacoyannis Foundation. She has had seven solo shows both in Athens and abroad, and has participated in many group exhibitions. This exhibition runs until Saturday, 2 June 2012 at Artzone 42. www.artzone42.gr

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My Athens Eleni Marneri who runs the el.marneri gallery in Plaka on living and loving the city centre

u Which area of Athens do you live in?

I live in the area of Plaka. I have always enjoyed the liveliness of the city centre. I always wanted to see what was currently happening in the city and hear her heartbeat. It is the best way to be aware and to know how to confront the good and the bad that is coming, especially during this difficult period

u What do you do?

I own a gallery for contemporary jewellery in the area of Akropoli, For the past 20 years, the gallery functions as an incentive as well as a stage for Greek and international jewellery artists to create and present their work. My aim is to introduce contemporary jewellery to Greek people and to show how this artistic jewellery can easily bridge art and daily life.

u Is Athens an artists’ paradise?

It surely could be‌.This difficult period is a great opportunity for artists to show their creativity, inspiration and sensitivity. Only with our culture and education we can move forward and see the future with optimism.

That is what I am trying to promote for the past years with my collaboration with artists.

u What’s your favorite city stroll?

From Plaka, through the Roman Market to Monastiraki

18 insider athens | May & June 2012

u Most positive change in Athens over the last ten years?

The union of all archaeological places of Athens with pedestrian routes. Dionysiou Aeropageitou Street and the subway

u Secret parking space in central Athens?

Herefontos Street in Plaka

My Athens

u Where do you unwind after work?

u Describe your perfect Sunday in Athens.

I walk through the alleys of the city center (Plaka, Akropoli, Thiseion, Monastiraki) where I can clear my mind and make thoughts and dreams for the future.

It would start with a beautiful walk with friends from Plaka, through the Ancient Market to Monastiraki and Thision and it would end with an amazing jazz street concert or a dance in Kerameikos.

u Can you describe a quintessentially Athenian sound, smell, taste and sight?

The sound of birds in the morning.

The smell of neratzia flower in every Athenian street. The very green Filoppapou Hill

u What do you see from your balcony?

The blue sky and the stars, the moon…

u Your all-time favourite restaurant?

Aglio Olio a Peperoncino is my favorite restaurant. I like it for its authentic Italian cuisine and for its quality. It is also across my gallery.

u What is the ideal souvenir from Greece?

A book with Greek Poetry (Kavafis, Seferis, Elytis…) because it is our cultural heritage.

u Any favourite shops or boutiques? Ι do not have a favorite boutique. Shops and boutiques in the city center are really interesting. I like to discover new shops that have unique pieces and identity and reflect my personal style and character.

u If you were mayor for a day, what would you change?

I would create a city that it would be live and vivid. I would clean the city center from litter. I would forbid cars around the historical center so people could easily walk and visit historical monuments and museums, could ride bikes an could play music in the street and dance. I would like to bring this city back… its heartbeat !!!

u Do you think the crisis will in the long term have a positive impact?

I think that it will…Through this crisis, people will reconsider things… They will focus on culture, on real values on their own abilities and strengths. They will eventually recover.

uB est place to get away from it all?

The sea… the view from the temple of Poseidon in Sounio

insider athens | May & June 2012 19

Society

Athens Insider organized a spectacular cultural and gastronomic extravaganza along with the Indonesian Embassy, The Westin, Travel Plan and Qatar Airways from 20 to 29 April. Around ten dancers and musicians regaled guests on the opening night with vibrant dance performances and with an interactive angklung show. The gastronomic festival attracted a fair number of Athenians keen on savouring Indonesian cuisine. Seen here from l to r: 1. Mr Nikos Bolias, General Manager of Travel Plan, Mr Michael Metaxas, General Manager of The Astir Palace Complex Resort, H.E. Mr Ahmad Rusdi, outgoing Ambassador of Indonesia to Greece, Mr Lefteris Varelis, Marketing and PR Manager for The Astir Palace Complex Resort and George Labropoulos, F&B Manager, The Astir Palace Complex Resort.

2. Dyah Susilowati of the Indonesian Embassy, Sudha Nair-Iliades, Jani Sasanti of the Indonesian Embassy and Mr Lefteris Varelis.

French soirĂŠe

20 insider athens | May & June 2012

Indonesian extravaganza

The French-Greek Chamber of Commerce (CCIFH) organized a French night at the St. George Lycabettus Hotel on May 22. Seen here from l to r: 1. President of the CCIFH, Mr Christophe Hadzopoulos, Mr HĂŠrve Le Roy, Economic Counsellor at the French Embassy, Catherine Manali and Irene Vassilopoulou of St. George Lycabettus. 2. H.E Mr Jean-Loup Kuhn-Delforge, Ambassador of France to Greece, Mr Stephane Rutili of Euler-Hermes and Constantin Karagounis 3. Marianne Papalexi and George Papalexis of Zolotas with Alice Diakou.

Panorama Pool Relax & unwind in an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Athens. The Panorama Pool offers endless summer pleasure coupled with the renowned Marriott hospitality.

Use of the pool and facilities A room for day use (up to 18:00 hrs) Single / Double occupancy a 69.00 Max persons per room - 2 adults, 2 children) Extra adults in room, extra charge of a 20.00 each 20% discount on F&B consumptions in Panorama restaurant & bar. * Note: the above offer is upon availability and includes taxes.

For reservations - information Athens Ledra Marriott Hotel 115 Syngrou Ave, 117 45 Athens Telephone +30 210 930 0200 / Fax: 210 931 8144

Athens Ledra Marriott Hotel 115, Syngrou Avenue, 117 45 Athens, Greece Tel: 210 930 0000, Fax: 210 935 8603 Email: athensledra@marriott.com Website: www.athensmarriott.com • www.ledramarriott.gr

Fast Lane Marilyn forever Chopard once again shows its love for cinema by organizing an exhibition of 25 unpublished photos of Marilyn Monroe taken by the photographer Milton H. Greene whose friendship with the star was legendary. The exhibition which coincided with the Film Festival in Cannes will travel around the world for the rest of the year.

Rooftop vibes Perhaps the bar with the best vistas in town with sweeping views of the Lycabettus, the Acropolis and Mount Hymettus and a vibe that captures the vibrance of the city, the Galaxy Bar is simply hands-down the place to down a sundowner. Chef Yiannis Manikis adds to the magic with juicy steaks, delicious rissotti and delectable sushi. www.hilton.gr

Numbers and figures Green Hospitality

Athens Novotel shows its commitment to the environment by planting and grooming 350 trees in a park in the city centre. Part of the Accor group, the hotel has adopted the Planet 21 programme that promotes sustainable growth by training and informing its personnel, clients and partners over green issues with 21 commitments and obligations. www.novotel.com

The Herakleidon Museum continues with its theme ‘Art and Mathematics’ and engages in a productive dialogue between art and science, encouraging schools, educators and the general public to embrace these two different yet converging streams.

Exhibiting works of Viktor Vasarely and MC Escher, artists whose works constitute a symbolic bridge between science and art. www.herakleidon-museum.gr

Dark obsessions A journey into the sinfully molten world of dark chocolate and liquers is currently on at the Grande Bretagne’s Winter Garden. An indulgent diversion that runs until mid-June, the Éclair and Liquer festival is a bitter-sweet counterpoint to the uncertainty in the country. www.grandebretagne.com.gr

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Playing with the senses

Worry beads The ‘komboloi’ is as symbolic of Greece’s café culture as frappe is, and Mariannas Moutzouridou’s book entitled “The bead” takes the reader back in time to the origins of what forms an important part of Greek folk tradition. In Greece, the komboloi is no longer used for religious purposes but the standard number of beads is 33 which is said by some to symbolize the number of years Jesus lived on Earth.

It is also said that the komboloi is a balm to the soul and can console us with its rhythmic sounds.

Samsung presents Galaxy S III, the third generation of mobile phones Galaxy S. The new, stylish and innovative Galaxy S III, with advanced features, makes life easier and more amusing.

Thanks to its unique 4.8-inch HD Super Amoled screen, it makes using content easier while its 8MP camera and front camera 1.9 MP detect face, voice and movements of the user, offering a more comfortable and “natural” experience of using mobile phones.

French gastronomy

The big question

Intelligence Squared Greece will be conducting a Debate Summer Camp starting June 26 to June 29 at St Lawrence College. With a residential option for participants at the Amarilia Hotel, the camp is open to students between 14 and 18 years of age and aims to encourage young minds to rationalize arguments and present them in a lucid manner. For more information, check www.intelligencesquared.com/greece

The French school, Lycee FrancoHellenique along with the French Embassy and Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel launch the second French gastronomy festival with the aim of promoting French gastronomy with a series of demonstrations by chefs, culinary schools, patissiers, nutritionists, sommeliers and foodies on the beauty of French cuisine.

The Festival lasts until 21 June. www.sogallika.gr

New name, new concept at Radisson Blu Park!

Recently reformed with an urban nature concept, Radisson Blu combines art and luxury with the personal customer care of a boutique hotel. Decorated in 4 different styles offering a wide range of facilities with stunning views of the Acropolis, the hotel also boasts three restaurants, St’astra East (Asian cuisine), Gallo Nero (Italian) and St’astra Blue (fusion cuisine), catering to different tastes.

Mediterranean tastes

Nena Ismirnoglou and chef Nikos Koromilas bring alive the authentic flavours of Mediterranean cuisine at the cozy Gefseis restaurant. Housed in a charming 19th century neoclassical mansion, which used to be the ancestral home of the owners, the menu reflects a timeless quality with a contemporary twist.

insider athens | May & June 2012 23

Photo credits: K. Bekas

24 insider athens | May & June 2012

Debate

Quo Vadis Greece Ten Athenians share their vision on the way forward for Greece at Grande Bretagne’s Roof Garden

W

hen we’d decided to organize an informal think tank at the Grande Bretagne shortly after the May 6 elections, we’d mistakenly presumed that there would be more visibility and clarity on Greece’s future. Things however got more compounded from that point on and the once-taboo subject of Greece’s imminent euro exit, discussed in hushed terms until then, was now being debated openly at boardrooms and parliaments across the world. Meanwhile, the prospects of slipping back into the drachma with possibly a radical government at the helm only added to the average Greek’s gnawing pre-occupation of keeping one’s business alive and job intact. Our discussion couldn’t have been more timely.

We were at the Roof Garden just a few minutes shy of 8 pm as a few thunderclouds burst, breaking into a spectacular rainbow while a few metres away at the Kallimarmaron stadium, the Olympic flame lighting ceremony for the London 2012 Olympics was underway. A positive phenomenon, like the rainbow, in an otherwise bleak week.

It was a motley bunch of Hellenophiles from different walks of life hoping to shed some thoughts on the future – a shared vision of where we hoped Greece would be a year from now.

The ground beneath our feet had shifted so rapidly in the past few weeks that the thrust of the discussion was to go beyond the headlines of who would form the next government and whether or when Greece would exit the Euro zone to: No matter what the worst-case scenario, how and in what direction do we move forward as a country? The fundamental issue was how does Greece restore its bruised image and win the battle in the hearts and minds of its suitors.

Peter Economides, the brand strategist who fired the imagination of Greeks with his very inspirational words a few months ago, started off the discussion by stating that while the crisis was certainly an economic one, it was even more a crisis of values, a crisis of our reputation.

“The image the world has of us is the image we have of ourselves. If the world sees us as cheats, it is because that is the perception we have of ourselves. We need to alter our perceptions and believe in ourselves once again.” Economides explains that for the longest time ever, the world’s perception of Greece was frozen in black-and-white images from the ‘60s of

From left to right: Eric Aronis, Intelligence Squared Greece Alexia Kefalas, Le Figaro and France 24 Peter Economides, felixbni Brand Strategies Sudha Nair-Iliades, Publisher, Insider Publications Paul Firos, Art Collector Anneta Svoronou, Director of Sales and Marketing, Grande Bretagne Tim Ananiadis, Area General Manager of Greece, Turkey and Cyprus for Starwood Alexis Caniaris, Managing Director, Europartners Julianne Liebeck, Commercial Investor Nicholas Kontoprias, Herakleidon Museum Stuart Burrage, Executive Producer, Airborne TV & Film

insider athens | May & June 2012 25

Onassis, Maria Callas and Zorbas the Greek. It was a fun-loving Dionysian image. “That needs to change to an Apollonian image. That doesn’t mean we need to get rid of Zorbas – the Zorbas that every tourist who has visited Greece has met and fallen in love with it because he offered them something very valuable – a zest for life.” Economides continues that now when the foreigner sees Zorbas, he sees him as someone who retires early, evades taxes and the very thin line between love and hate has got blurred overnight. “We need to add more balance to Zorbas.”

For Tim Ananiadis, whose iconic hotel, the Grande Bretagne, has been at the frontline of demonstrations and in practically all the visuals on Greece shown on television screens worldwide, altering that worldview is critical to keeping the tourism sector and indeed, the economy, alive. Says Ananiadis,“We have the product, it is the delivery that is flawed.

We need to change the packaging.”

Contributing to embedding a strong negative image of Greece have been the incessant broadcasts highlighting all that was awry with Greek society. The news beast had to be fed. And glowing stories simply weren’t newsworthy. Art collector Paul Firos, who flits between the US and Greece believes that the media have always tended to make things appear even worse than they really are. Confirming his suspicions, Alexia Kefalas, who has reported for Le Figaro and France 24 from Greece on a daily basis spoke of the frustration of trying to pitch a positive story to a world hungry to find out more of Greece’s corrupt ways. “It was very difficult to convince the news bureau that there was a flip side to the negative stories.”

The issue has not simply been of disturbing images of Greece being beamed. It has also been one of credibility. Alexia continues, “Being Greek, I am embarrassed when the highest authorities in the state get it wrong. The President makes a statement only for it to be refuted by the Governor of the Bank of Greece a few minutes later. These are the impressions we are sending out.. of a country that cannot even decide what it would like to tell the rest of the world. And clearly, a country that cannot put aside differences to form a government. It will be very difficult to regain the confidence of investors, tourists, foreign governments and financial institutions for a very long time.”

Putting an external spin to the discussion was National Geographic’s executive producer,

26 insider athens | May & June 2012

Debate

Stuart Burrage who, as a film-maker, recommended the way out of Greece’s crisis would be “a good script, well executed.” “If you put the right elements together it will work right. Everything would gravitate naturally towards it. We have to look back at the fundamentals, at the core values and stick to it.”

Building on Burrage’s theory, Economides adds, “We are not selling a product, we’re managing people’s impressions.” He continues, “Greece is the only country to have changed its logo and its promotional campaign over 16 times in the past twenty years. There is no story, no narrative in the campaign. We need to have a powerful, magnetic message.”

Arguing that it was all very well to talk about image when the fundamentals were completely wrong, Eric Aronis, who has been organizing debates through Intelligence Squared Greece on issues that have a strong resonance in Greece from ‘whether young Greeks should leave or stay’ to ‘whether Greece should default from the euro’, says, “I do not think that the gravity of the situation has sunk in. Greeks do not have a clear understanding of what is happening to them – nor do I for that matter. I fear that it is a lot worse than we think it is.

Reflecting on how readily Greeks embraced change a decade ago, Aronis adds, “I’m not sure we can turn this around now. Nobody even wants to hear about Greece now, certainly not investors.”

Countering the gloom was Julian, a New Zealander who spent a few years here and is committed to investing in boutique hotels in Greece, “It has been a continual relationship that I share with Greece. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, the world’s a dead place.

Greeks still know how to laugh and live life to the fullest and that is precious.”

Somehow, that energy and enthusiasm needs to be channelized to counter both the erosion of self-esteem as well as in reforming Greek

society. Alexis Caniaris, Managing Director of Europartners, who has been organizing exhibitions for two decades, commented “We still lack vision and a strategy to pull Greece out of the morass.” Not only is it a lack of vision, it a lack of co-ordinated vision. Very often ministries instead of complementing each other, contradict each other.

Delighted at the prospect of the Ministries of Culture and Tourism merging together, Nicholas Kondoprias of the Herakleidon Museum believed that there would be a unified strategy. “Instead, shortly after we discovered that we did not even have the right to put a sign in front of the museum.”

While everyone around the table agreed on a dire and urgent need for reforms across all sectors, Ananiadis observed that changing people’s outlook on what needs to be done, is the most difficult thing. “The problem Greece has, begins from what people expect of Greece.”

For Paul Firos, “Our concern should be how we will be judged 25 years from now.”

While Greeks need to clean their mess, it was unreasonable on the part of Europe “to expect such huge reforms to happen in such a short time.”

Have we reached the bottom yet? Both Ananiadis and Aronis believed that we are yet to hit rock-bottom and half-joked that instead of ‘picking up the pieces’ the risk was that we might end up ‘picking up the same pieces’ all over again. Economides concurs, “We might have hit a cultural roadblock but now is the time for visionaries in Greece to take the lead.”

No matter what denomination Greece might adopt, “Great ideas are the most valuable currency” concluded Stuart. Irrespective of the election results in June, the fact that all of us around the table had the possibility to leave but had opted to stay and work here, is certainly a positive vote for Greece.

insider athens | May & June 2012 27

Athens’ annual summer fest

The 57th Athens Festival, yet again, boasts a spectacular programme of music, theatre, dance and visual arts and juxtaposes high-profile productions with emerging and experimental works. Insider rounds up this sum-

Venice Baroque Orchestra

L' Olimpiade 8 June, 21:00 Onassis Cultural Centre

© Matteo da Fina

A hymn to the Olympic spirit, to noble friendship and adoring devotion, Pietro Metastasio’s libretto for L'Olimpiade proved something of a goldmine on the 18th-century theatrical scene, notching up a grand total of 50 complete ‘remakes’ and hundreds of partial musical settings. In this international production, which will ultimately lead to a commercial release, the Venice Baroque Orchestra – conducted from the harpsichord by Markellos Chrysikopoulos – revive the historic pasticcio form by presenting L'Olimpiade as an amalgamation of no fewer than 16 arias by composers both celebrated and forgotten in a panorama of European music in the Baroque and Early Classical periods.

Zimmerman & de Perrot

Hans was Heiri 8-11 June, 21:00, Peiraios 260, Building H “We like distorting things”, Zimmermann & de Perrot agree. The Swiss duo return to Athens with their newest creation, Hans was Heiri, following their subversive Festival debut in 2010. Appearing with another five performers, the artists bring humour and poetry to their commentary on the human condition and their search for the dream in reality. Resembling a contemporary burlesque, the production combines original music with dance and acrobatics on a revolving set / house in which everything is constantly being turned upside down.

© Mario Del Curto Strates

Dimitris Lignadis

August Strindberg, Miss Julie 10-11 June, 21:00 Peiraios 260, Building D

© Lydia Dimitriadi, Konstantinopoulou Marili

August Strindberg wrote Miss Julie (1888) in search of “a new form for the new content, the new wine that will blow the old bottles apart”, and his no-holds-barred struggle between two classes, two genders and two mentalities would cause a scandal.

The production enshrines Dimitris Lignadis’ edgy take on the work. The director also plays Jean, joining forces with Stefania Goulioti as Julie, to explore their fathomless relationship in the Festival’s homage to the playwright in the centenary of his death.

De KOE Theatre Co – Peter van den Eede

Offending the Audience 10-12 June, 21:00 Peiraios 260, Building E The DE KOE collective from the Netherlands believes that Peter Handke’s Public Outrage is as relevant today as it was when written in 1966. It retains its ability to shock the audience, certainly, not that the actors emerge unscathed, given that the Austrian playwright stripped this, his first appearance/manifesto in theatre, of every social and theatrical illusion and convention. Peter van den Eede’s adaptation and direction have transformed a nasty, hard and hectoring work into a production brimming over with energy, imagination and humour.

28 insider athens | May & June 2012

© Koen Broos

Culture mers’ performances and exhibitions and picks up the must-sees in the different categories. A real salve for the senses for five whole weeks. With over 50 groups and 500 artists from Greece, Europe and beyond, the Athens Festival has managed to raise the bar again despite budget cuts.

Timbre 4 Theatre Co – Claudio Tolcachir

Tercer Cuerpo ( I n

French with Greek surtitles)

11-13 June, 21:00, Apo Michanis (Ex Machina) Theatre The Athens Festival introduces Greek audiences to the rising star of Argentinean theatre. Claudio Tolcachir puts five people on stage sharing four different spaces. Drawing on the existential trials and tribulations of contemporary life, the 35 year-old playwright and director draws secret desires, lies and guilt to the surface with a powerful feel for rhythm and black humour. An exceptional cast crafts an on-stage poem with the enigmatic title: Third Body: the story of an absurd attempt.

© Gianpaolo Sama

Greek National Opera

Giuseppe Verdi, il Trovatore ( I n

French with Greek surtitles)

10 and 12-14 June, 21:00 Odeon of Herodes Atticus Il Trovatore by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) is an Italian Romantic opera par excellence.

In Spain, whose wealth of extremes was such a source of inspiration for 19th-century Europe, gypsy girls and nuns, counts and revolutionaries live out fiery passion and everlasting hatred around the fire or beneath the full moon. The emotions are conveyed by the mellifluous, impetuous score, by the work’s fervent arias and duets, and by the celebrated choruses which have rightfully earned the opera a place among the all-time classics.

© Stefano Poda

Ali & Hedi Thabet

Rayahzone ( I n

French with Greek surtitles)

14 - 16 June, 21:00 Peiraios 260, Building H The Thabet brothers from Tunisia—artists with roots in dance, the circus and theatre—join forces on stage with five musicians to weave a shared landscape and immerse themselves in Sufi music. Giving their bodies, voices and drums free rein, they seek balance through the energy of movement and the spirituality of live music. Guided by the concept of bodily metamorphosis, they transport themselves to another plane; or, as the Sufi song says, “If you are happy for a moment, that moment is your life”.

© Dan Aucante

Grasshopper Theatre Co – Dimitris Karantzas

Henrik Ibsen, Little Eyolf ( I n

French with Greek surtitles)

14-16 & 18-20 June, 21:00, Porta theatre, Little theatre It was to Little Eyolf (1894) that Dimitris Karantzas, that most youthful of directors, turned in order to explore the power of automatism in everyday life. A neglected work from Ibsen’s late period, the play plumbs the depths of the human soul, leaving social outrage in the background. Bodies moving coordinated and asymptotic in space, mechanistic reactions and the immobility of death convey the playwright’s caustically ironic view of his creations and reveal their (self)immuration in social conventions and their own obsessions. Is there a way out?

© Myrto Delivoria

For information and reservation: greekfestival.gr / +30 210 3272000. Bookings open from 21 May.

insider athens | May & June 2012 29

Coastal guide As Athens gears itself to receive visitors for the Posidonia exhibition, Simrin Jhangiani takes a tour of the trendiest cafes and restaurants in Mikrolimano, Piraeus and Glyfada Mikrolimano

B

illed as a yachting haven, fish gourmand’s paradise and even a tourist trap, Insider explores Mikrolimano, Piraeus’ most beguiling little harbor. While Piraeus, the port city of Athens since antiquity, is the nerve centre of Greece’s shipping and maritime industry, it is Mikrolimano, the smallest, prettiest and most popular of Piraeus’ ports, where one unwinds for a slow-paced meal. For those in doubt, this is the sailing capital of Greece. A white neoclassical villa houses the Hellenic Offshore Racing Club (HORC). If looking at boats moored as far as the eye can see makes you want to buy one you will need a license and this is where to get it – as well as to sign up for lessons so that you can actually manage your craft. According to instructor Manos Roudas (a third-generation Piraeus resident, who is a mine of information on his native city), this is the country’s oldest and largest sailing club.

A short way along, is the harbour of Mikrolimano, which was formerly,

30 insider athens | May & June 2012

and is sometimes still, referred to as Turkolimano (Turkish Harbour).

From before 500 B.C. when it began to be fortified, this was the ancient military port of Munychea. It has a distinctly island feel, which shouldn’t come as a surprise as, in the distant past, Piraeus was an island, separated from the mainland by the marshes of Halipedon. At Mikrolimano, the main road becomes Akti Koumoundourou – taking the family name of one Alexandros whose restored villa now houses the Naval Society of Greece (NAS). The top floor is a restaurant for upmarket seaside dining. Its terrace affords the best view by the bay - where a forest of waving masts top gently rocking yachts - and the gentle rise of Kastella lies in the background.

The rooftop terrace has a sweeping view of the sea, with Faliro beyond, and Athens to the left. This is the perfect place to sip a cocktail and watch distant streetlights spark into the blue dusk then, as the world turns, become beacons in the black night.

Cityscope astoria

To one side of Katafigio are ranks of fish tavernas and cafes, while on the other is the seaside, with low wooden cabins for sheltered seating in all weathers. If it is a weekday afternoon, at any time of the year except a public holiday, it is possible to find solitude here. Sink into a chair to sip on an ice-cold frappé– and let your mind freewheel back to ancient times, trying to catch an echo of legions of Roman soldiers rhythmically marching towards Athens, or the shouts of marauding Vikings scrambling ashore. If though, it is evening or a public holiday, your reality will doubtless be loud chat and laughter from a happy throng.

Another staple is Captain John’s: owner Vivie Yannakopoulou serves a popular giouvetsi of shrimps and feta cheese. Tavernas Ammos and Jimmy the Fish both specialize in meze – small dishes of seafood – the sharing of food enlivens the meal.

After a fishy feast, starry-eyed couples might head to Love Café, beside the floodlit waters, for a little extra romance. The end of the bay is marked by the prestigious Yachting Club of Greece (YCG) where one needs to be a member (or a member’s friend) to enter. If you fancy a nautical atmosphere, try Exi café/bar only a stone’s throw away.

Owned by Tasos Boudouris, four-time Olympic sailing champion, Exi does a brisk trade in early breakfasts and late dinners fortifying those going to and coming from sea voyage. Customers here include Olympic medallists, Ilias Hadjipaulis and George Zaimis, and manager Vaios Konstantinos says that former King Konstantine dropped last year. So there you have it: at this tiny port, you can rub shoulders with Olympians, tourists, loved-up couples, sailors and even kings (albeit exiled ones). As local Cephalus said to the Athenian philosopher Socrates in the opening scene of Plato’s Republic, set around 420BC: “…

Piraeus: you aught to come oftener.”

Piraeus When in Piraeus, why not do as the shipping tycoons to: take a long, leisurely lunch at one of the area’s best restaurants? The maritime capital’s lunch scene has come a long way since 1967, when several ship-owners got together and established a marine club for casual meetings outside the boardroom. With lunch an increasingly popular means of enhancing business relations in a more informal manner, establishments offering a global cornucopia of cuisines have sprouted along the waterfront, providing locals with an irresistible selection of midday meal options.

The commercial hub of Piraeus is Akti Miaouli, the main artery which

runs parallel to the central port. Just a few paces off it is Filellinon Street, the heart of the shipping district and the location of Story, where ship-owners meet to exchange views on market trends over a meal. Story’s frequently changing menu from modern European cuisine with Greek twists like the delicious garidaki Simiako (salted crevettes from the island of Symi), to fresh fish of the day, pasta or risotto, and excellent desserts, keeps the regulars coming back.

Right next door is the Astoria NY deli/bar/restaurant, which has become a magnet for colleagues in the shipping industry to get together and enjoy a meal during lunch or a drink after office hours. A casual, Manhattan-style restaurant, Astoria is famed for its delicious burgers (beef or chicken) garnished with onions and mushrooms, its selection of sausages, and gammon steaks accompanied by homemade French fries.

For traditional Greek cuisine, Galaxis is an old family-run eatery which has offered its clients home cooked Greek specialties since 1977. Due to the location and nature of Piraeus, many nationalities have left their mark here. Tucked away on one of the side streets, where the cracked paving makes it safer to walk on the road than the pavement, is Rouan Thai, a restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine. Here, the alluring flavours of the East are served by Pavlos and cooked by his Thai wife, Marina. The broad range of dishes on offer, including traditional Thai appetizers and exotic specialties such as pork phad kra prow and tasty tom yang kung (prawn soup) make this a popular venue.

Further along Akti Miaouli, opposite the grand church of Agios Nikolaos (patron saint of seafarers) proudly positioned to watch over

Zefyros

Faced with such an array of fish tavernas how does one choose where to sit? Locals say that they are all good, although some pricier than others. At Zefyros, family-run for 70 years, owner George Panagiotu attributes their continuing popularity to the fact that the fish and seafood are always fresh – and even the salads are freshly made to order. Designed to make one feel that one is aboard a yacht, surrounded by swinging masts and distinctly salty sea spray, it feels like you’ve set sail from the moment you’ve taken a seat at the restaurant. Accompanied by a fine selection of wines from Greek vineyards, Zefyros is the perfect setting to invite guests to enjoy a fabulous meal of grilled octopus, crab, sea urchins and lobsters.

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Glyfada

Gato Mediteraneo

the port, is the OLP Exhibition Centre. Here, among the mix of modern and classical architecture, is Gato Mediterano, a stylishly decorated restaurant with jazz and modern soul music to accompany a menu of fresh fish and seafood cooked and served to perfection.

Continuing along the side streets, among the scattered archaeological sites which have been turned into public parks and down towards Pasalimani (Marina Zea), is a small ouzeri called Peiraikon. Tucked away under one of the many unattractive apartment blocks suffocating the derelict neoclassical buildings which offer a glimpse of Piraeus’ past splendours, this little place is always packed with ouzolovers enjoying platters of grilled octopus, fresh mussels and clams.

For those who want to escape from the vibrant commercial district, a perfect alternative is Margaro near the Naval Cadets school. The quaint whitewashed taverna, set in an island-style house right at the edge of Piraeus, serves only fried prawns and crayfish (upon availability), red mullet and Greek salad.

Glyfada sets the pulse of southern Athens. Its coastal location gives it a feel of the French Riviera – or Miami, with endless selections for shopping, clubbing, eating and drinking. With the advent of the tram, providing a direct link to Syntagma Square and the construction of ambitious sporting venues on two sides of the suburb ahead of the 2004 Olympics, Glyfada has had not just a facelift but an all-over body reshape. But, in all the changes, it has retained its character – and its inimitable allure.

Located at the foot of Mount Hymettus and embraced by the Saronic Gulf, Glyfada is one of the most expensive residential areas in Greece (the municipality has attracted more than 30,000 residents) and hosts the main shopping district of the southern suburbs. As well as all the latest clothing and accessory stores, Glyfada features countless elegant cafes, restaurants and the city’s most breathtaking open-air waterfront night clubs, which come alive during the summer months.

Metaxa Street is the main high street that runs through the centre, from Agios Konstantinos church all the way to the indoor swimming pool and sports facilities of Glyfada.

Metaxa high street mainly consists of little shopping centres, fashionable in the 80s and 90s but unfortunately not designed in any unison to complement each other.

When you’re ready for a break from shopping, you’ll find that there is a tempting café or restaurant within a few steps of all the main stores.

The beauty of living by the sea is the relaxed pace that the sea air encourages – and what better way to relax than sitting at one of the many comfortable and sophisticated cafes.

On Zissimopoulou, competition is so hot that café owners compete to entice famous personalities so that the rest will follow. Here the cafes change their looks and identities faster than wanted criminals

Inside Track: Eatl Story: Filellinon 9. 210 4294509 Astoria: Filellinon 9 and Filonos. 210 4294905 Rouan Thai: Notara 131. 210 4294494 Galaxias: Fillelinon 2. 210 4292848 Gato Mediteraneo: Akti Miaouli 67. 210 4599713 Peiraikon, Karaiskou 175. 210 4182043 Maragaro: Hadzikyriakou126. 210 4514226 Zefyros: Akti Koumoundourou 48. 210 4175152 Captain John’s: Akti Koumoundourou 16A. 210 4177589 Ammos: Akti Koumoundourou 44. 210 4224633 Drinkl Katifigio: Akti Koumoundourou 4. 210 4131612 Exi: Akti Koumoundourou 64. 210 422 2652 Saill Hellenic Offshore Racing Club, Akti Athinas Dilaveri 3. 210 4123357 For daily info on sailing , see Manos Roudas’ blog http://mysailing.sailingblog.net

32 insider athens | May & June 2012

STORY

Cityscope BALUX

on the Interpol list and keeping up with the latest is a real challenge.

A few of the cafes that line this street include Marquise, Chocolat and Chic with new entrants like the Butcher’s Grill right by the cinema and Hard Rock Café that offer light snacks and salads. Magnolia, a trendy café/bar designed in shades of grey stone with fresh white touches, serves quality coffee, light snacks and sushi during the day and cool cocktails at night.

Due to the residential nature of Glyfada and the Mediterranean culture of bringing the kids along on all occasions, there are many family-orientated restaurants in the area. Balux Home Project, a spacious beach house located right on the sandy coast with a breathtaking view out to sea, is a place where children can run around the spacious grounds whilst their parents watchfully enjoy their breakfast or lunch, in the relaxed atmosphere of this establishment, which is divided into eating, living and lounging areas like a home.

Escaping onto the quieter sidestreets of Glyfada, you will find many hidden gems. Cook Lobby serves home-cooked dishes prepared with totally organic ingredients in its open kitchen. Decorated with delicate pale wooden furniture, this charming eatery makes you feel that you are eating in a friend’s kitchen and is a quiet and healthy alternative to the noisy fashionable cafes. Vincenzo is a familyfriendly Italian trattoria specialising in tasty pasta dishes and clay oven-cooked pizzas.

The seating area in the garden at the back of the restaurant is particularly popular. When the shops start to shut in the early evening, the restaurants step into the limelight. There are enough restaurants in Glyfada to satisfy every gastronomical preference, from the timeless Tartare – a French Bistro next to the golf course, where Odysseus and his mother offer their clientele exceptional service complimented by the kind of food that would be enjoyed in a Parisian bistro – to the simple trattoria Il Salotto, where the pasta is homemade and the olive oil used is transported directly from the owner’s olive grove in Kalamata.

Hama Sushi is a new Japanese restaurant that has acquired a formidable reputation within just a few months. Another restaurant

VINCENZO

Insider would highly recommend is 25ari, in the street just behind the Anna Dor cinema (which still serves as a reference despite being shut for a few years) for some great fish and seafood.

At b.e.d Balux night club, a seaside open air club popular amongst the energetic new-comers to the club scene, the party begins late in the night and clubbers dance all night long to the beat of the latest dance tunes. Akanthus, within the complex, is a great hang-out, with the sea as its stage. With live performances of Greek music from popular singers, the night begins in a subtle mood of drinking and socializing and turns into a vibrant zone with everyone dancing everywhere and especially on the tables in the early hours of the morning.

The suburb that never sleeps, is an enticing all year destination for Athenians and visitors from further afield, but it becomes truly irresistible in midsummer, when the sea breeze and salt spray offer immediate relief from the white heat of central Athens.

Getting there

By car: Glyfada is connected to Athens by two major avenues: Vouliagmenis, which starts from the Temple of Zeus, and Posidonos, which runs along the palm-lined coast.

By tram: Take the tram from Syntagma Square in the direction ‘Kolymvitirio’ (Swimming pool). It is a roughly 45 minute ride to Metaxa Street in Glyfada.

Inside track Eat/drinkl • Ache Bar Restaurant: Kyprou 57, tel 210 894 2949 • Café Café: Zissimopoulou 9, tel 210 894 4996 • Il Salotto: Botsari 13, tel 210 894 8397 • 25ari: • Cook Lobby: • Magnolia Café Bar: A Metaxa 6, tel 210 894 8522 • Tartare: Panagouli 52, near Golf Course, tel 210 968 0320 •V incenzo: Giannitsopoulou 1, tel 210 894 1310/210 894 1425 Lounge/dancel Balux Home Project: Posidonos Avenue, Asteras Glyfada, tel 210 898 3577 b.e.d Balux night club: Posidonos Avenue, Asteras Glyfada Akanthus : Possidonos Avenue, Asteras Glyfada

insider athens | May & June 2012 33

34 insider athens | May & June 2012

Business

TCDL

Raising the bar On the eve of Posidonia, the most important date in the shipping industry’s calendar, Athens Insider interviews Dimitris Stavropoulos on his firm’s expertise in providing legal services to the shipping community across the high seas and its special interest in civil litigation cases in Greece

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awyers swishing from room to room in organized frenzy and sober urgency. The executive assistant administrating the flow of calls in various languages and equally various salutations, depending on the call recipient’s time zone. Our first impression is that Stavropoulos & Co. is not your average “stock” Athenian Law Firm.

Then, as if to confirm, our personal meeting with Dimitris Stavropoulos. A lawyer practicing for over 27 years, the senior counsel of Stavropoulos & Co. shifts from language to language and from jurisdiction to jurisdiction with the ease and comfort that only comes from extensive international exposure and equal experience, as he answers our questions about himself and about The Law Offices of Stavropoulos & Co. Established in 1984, Stavropoulos believes that the single most important advantage his law firm has is that “it is large enough to handle substantial transactions, yet still remains small enough to offer a personal partner led service.”

Based in Athens, serving an extensive range of domestic and international clients, the firm has its offices spread across Montreal and Toronto in Canada, New York, Chicago, Washington DC and Miami in the US and Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin in Australia. Says Stavropoulos, “The firm is recognized for its international capabilities.

Our knowledge of the legal and commercial requirements of many nations and our extensive international network of attorneys enable us to serve Greek clients with international operations and non-Greek clients conducting business in Greece. Our legal practitioners and staff are fluent in Greek, English, French, German and Spanish, which enhances our firm’s ability to guide clients through the complexities of various legal systems around the world.”

Guiding and navigating international businesses through Greece’s labyrinthine legal system and counseling them on potential pitfalls to avoid, is part of the firm’s expertise. “We provide legal services to multinational corporations, medium-size companies and private and publicly

held small businesses in corporate and commercial law, litigation, real estate transactions, financing, international trade, securities registration and compliance, taxation, bankruptcy and trademark registration worldwide. The firm also represents individual clients in trust and estate planning, divorce and other family law matters.”

In the shipping sector, Stavropoulos adds, “the firm covers all aspects from financing to ship registrations and acquisitions to litigation. Οur field of practice also comprises all kinds of transactions involving vessels, yachts and floating crafts of all kinds such as sale and transfer of ownership of the same, drafting and execution of Bills of Sale and MoA’s, execution of deeds of maritime mortgages over vessels, drafting and execution of Charter-parties (CP’s), Time-Charters (T/C’s), registration of vessels under any flag etc.”

Not only does the firm possess the scientific expertise and long experience as well as the adequate human resources to handle (and has indeed successfully handled over the years) all kinds of maritime and cargo claims such as B/L claims for cargo loss or damage, demurrage, salvage and towage claims, personal injuries or property damages claims etc., it also carries out with the outmost expedience all negotiations, settlements and respective litigation, if and when needed. The Greek Review of Maritime Law has published many judgments on maritime cases handled and represented by Stavropoulos’ office.

Over tea and ‘dipping’ cookies, voutimata, handpicked from Stavropoulos’ favourite patisserie down the street, we were regaled with insider stories of politicians who had amassed fortunes in real estate to the angst of a young entrpreneur from Kythira coping with antiquated laws to the resilience of Greece’s outward-looking shipping sector. All in the day of being a lawyer.

Stavropoulos and Co, 18 Dimokritou Street, Athens.

Tel: 210 3645103, email: counsel@lexhellas.gr www.stavropouloslaw.com

insider athens | May & June 2012 35

A complete, holistic, holiday destination The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort at Costa Navarino offers a complete holiday embracing nature-inspired wellness treatments, Messinia’s rich culinary traditions,outdoor activities from trailing Greece’s philosophers through age-old paths to teeing off in Greece’s signature golf courses with panoramic sea and mountain views.

36 insider athens | May & June 2012

Special promotion

T

he Romanos Resort’s rolling hills, olive groves, rugged mountains and pristine sandy coastlines lend themselves to an experience like none other. Whether you’re looking at making the most of your downtime by indulging in a bit of serious relaxation or treating it as an opportunity to take in the great outdoors with an energetic bout of Nordic walking, the resort lets you discover passions you never knew you possessed and make time for those you had little opportunity to pursue.

With 321 exceptional rooms overlooking the sea, landscaped gardens and infinity pools, The Romanos Resort is the perfect location to enjoy unrivaled relaxation and experience the authenticity of the surrounding environment. While the Deluxe rooms capture a sophisticated marriage of modern style and timeless grace with its own furnished terrace, the Infinity rooms have direct access to 23 m2 individual infinity pools. Offering exquisite location and privacy, the Master Infinity Villas (142 m2), with their uncompromising Ionian Sea views, allow you to soak up the atmosphere of Costa Navarino from the exceptional terrace surrounding the 48 m2 infinity pool. For the ultimate in luxury, the two bedroom Villas Ithomi and Sapientza of 192 m2, each with its own private infinity pool (73 m2), offer not only unobstructed views of the Ionian Sea but also incredible indoor and outdoor lounging areas providing a personalized butler service. The most exclusive of all options is The Koroni Royal Villa - a sprawling (660 m2), opulent three-bedroom residence. Perched on the edge of The Dunes Beach, it promises astounding views and uncompromising privacy and offers dedicated, personalized butler service.

Athens Insider offers a few suggestions to make the most of this idyllic destination. If your self-imposed mission is to detox after a hectic work-week, the sprawling 4,000 m2 Anazoe Spa is the perfect sanctuary to lie back and enjoy, while olive-oil inspired treatments work their magic on your sore muscles. Based on therapies that were inscribed on clay tablets discovered at the nearby Palace of Nestor, treatments range from thalassotherapy, kinesiotherapy, floating pools, light and heat therapies, ice-grotto rooms, mist showers and herbal saunas.

Book a spa treatment on check-in to enjoy the rest of your stay, rejuvenated. And for children used to the good life, the spa also offers treatments specially designed for young ones! For the sheer range of culinary options, The Romanos Resort offers eclectic flavours and unique concepts from the world over. Athenians familiar with Nargile and Inbi will find their Messinian counterparts, offering the same high standards of Middle- Eastern and Pan Asian cuisine respectively.At Flame, the philosophy is based on indigenous produce allowing guests to taste local ingredients and combine their meal with a visit to nearby farms. The restaurant Omega, similarly, is based on cuisine that is rich in Omega 3 while The Diner is, as its name suggests, an all-round American option. For the lovers of sea-food, Eleon restaurant offers

the freshest fish available. For Italian cuisine, Da Luigi is the place to be while for in-between meal times, Anax Lounge and the coffee hangout at Kafenio set the tone for the evening ahead. Guests keen on learning all about local Greek wines can take part in visits to nearby vineyards, accompanied by picnic lunches of a rich platter of local homemade delicacies, and enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine. Offering an insight into ancient Greek philosophical thinking and writings, all the more relevant to our challenging world, The Romanos Resort offers what it terms as ‘philosophy walks’ led by classical scholars.

Set against the idyllic backdrop of the Messinian countryside, the aim is to provide answers to contemporary problems by drawing on the wisdom of the past. Each walk lasts about 90 minutes and takes place over two consecutive days exploring the sites of Ancient Olympia, the temples of Zeus and Hera, the ancient stadium and the workshop of the great Classical sculptor Phidias. Best-known in golfing circles as one of the finest destinations in the world to tee-off, Costa Navarino’s 18-hole Dunes Course designed by former US Masters Champion and Ryder Cup Captain, Bernhard Langer, and 18-hole, par-71 Bay Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, are a golfer’s paradise and the new luxury golf destination in Greece. For non-golfers and golf widows, the cutting edge Sports & Entertainment Center offers a full range of sporting activities and entertainment facilities including bowling, basketball, volleyball and five-a-side football. A holiday here is also a great way to hone racket skills both for kids and parents alike at the Navarino Racquet Academy where tennis, table tennis, speedminton, squash, badminton are taught by experienced coaches. Water-sports enthusiasts can choose from a range of aquatic activities such as wind surfing, kite-surfing, diving and kayaking while those keen on exploring Messinia’s rugged terrain can opt in for mountain biking and hiking. Whatever your calling, The Romanos Resort is so much more than a resort. It is a holistic experience of being in communion with all the senses, of discovering an alternate lifestyle, if only for a few days.

insider athens | May & June 2012 37

An idyllic getaway on Skiathos The charming boutique hotel Mandraki Village that hosted the cast and crew of Mamma Mia! blends the spellbinding beauty of Skiathos, immortalised on celluloid ever so often, with contemporary architecture and modern facilities

38 insider athens | May & June 2012

Travel

I

n the heart of the Sporades, on the northern part of the verdant island of Skiathos, just 200 metres from Koukounaries, acknowledged world over as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, nestles the charming Mandraki Village, a beautiful boutique hotel that seems to have it all!

In operation since 1979, Mandraki Village went through a complete transformation five years ago with architect and designer Tsitsos Mimis converting the already charming hotel into a boutique hotel with the latest in contemporary design and comfort. With meticulous attention being paid to every single aspect, the hotel’s 38 rooms and suites lend a homely feel while guests soak in the quiet luxury of the hotel. The hotel’s management prides itself in having guests return a second and third time around and attribute it to the fact that “they feel like they’re coming back to a family.”

The lobby of the hotel doubles up as an art space and has hosted exhibitions of well-known Greek artists including works of acclaimed New York based artist and photographer Philip Tsiaras last summer.

On a mission to promote indigenous products and local culinary traditions, the Elia restaurant at the hotel with chef Sophie Chatzieleftheriou at the helm, stocks and uses Ergon products, a range of Greek products of exceptional quality aimed at promoting Greek gastronomy in Greece and abroad.

The White bar at the hotel is a great place to unwind with a drink while children amuse themselves at the kid’s swimming pool and playground. Skiathos is also a great island to hone ones water-sports skills. For sailors and amateur skippers, the Skiathos marina is just a hop-and-skip away from the hotel. The adjacent, environmentally protected Strofilia lake also offers endless possibilities for both water activities and picnics.

Mandraki Village was the hotel of choice for the cast and crew of the Hollywood blockbuster production Mamma Mia! starring Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Amanda Peat whilst they filmed on Skiathos. The testimonies of these celebrities is something the hotel’s management holds dear. Says Deny Markaki,“Our guests were delighted to return to quiet, elegant surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of the town, after a long day of shooting.”

The hotel has also acquired a reputation for hosting exclusive weddings and receptions by its stunning poolside. The romantic ambience of the island, together with Mandraki Village’s sprawling outdoor areas and manicured gardens, exquisite cuisine and impeccably trained personnel make the most demanding wedding planner’s job seem like a teddy bear’s picnic.

Mandraki Village, Tel: 24270 49301, www.mandraki-skiathos.gr

insider athens | May & June 2012 39

GORA

Blue-rimmed sunglasses by Chopard

Limited Nail summer colour edition

by Korres

Pink fuchsia top by American Vintage Corey Sandal

by Monsoon

Havaianas in slim hardware rose-gold

Classic canvas handbag in white

by Le Pandorine

Nautical fine stripe bikini and straw hat

by Accessorize

Handbag in flowery patterns

by Seqouia

Sun protection by Sol de Janeiro, available at Sephora Stores: Accessorize: 42 Ermou Street, Tel 210 331 7780. www.accessorize.gr American Vintage: 7 Kolokotroni Street, Kifissia Tel: 210 801 9110 Chopard: Chopard Boutique, 2 Stadiou. www.chopard.com Havaianas: www.havaianas.com Korres: www.korres.com Le Pandorine: Mativa,Tel: 210 723 9974 Monsoon: The Mall Athens, Golden Hall www.monsoon.co.uk Sephora: www.mysephora.gr Seqouia: Attica www.sequoiaparis.com

Digital Jewellery Katerina Agrafioti transforms the humble compact disc into a beautiful work of art. In an interview with Anamela Agrodimou, she describes her fascination for digital jewellery.

Do you consider yourself an artist or a jewellery designer?

boutiques who stock a quirky collection of unique pieces. I have also

I would consider myself more of an artist than a simple

had several impromptu sales at friends’ homes. I am currently exhibit-

jewellery designer.

ing at the Hotel NJV Athens Plaza as part of its ‘Floral’ exhibition that runs until July 29.

People normally throw compact discs that they no longer need.

You, on the other hand collect them and create art out of it.

Talk us through your creative process.

I am very sensitive towards the environment and I want my jewellery to express this sensitivity towards recycling. We do not need expensive materials to create art - we just need imagination and a sense of humour. For a long time, I have been particularly attracted to the round, shiny, silvery appearance of compact discs (CDs). I refer of course to the materials and not to the contents. I tried to transform such material into something more palpable, something that could appeal to other senses as well. Thus, the idea of creating digital jewellery was born, which can be beautiful if it is laced with humour and imagination.

What materials do you use?

The base is always the CDs. Apart from that, I use any material that could be a source of inspiration to me. It could be flowers, beads, lace, leather, fabric and it could be little figurines of children or birds – anything that inspires me.

Where have you sold or exhibited your jewellery before?

I have exhibited my jewellery at the Cultural Centre of the Municipality of Palaio Psychico and my jewellery has been displayed at various

Katerina Agrafioti studied Law and attended courses in sociology and humanity at Columbia and was responsible for the Greek library at Harvard University. She has worked as a freelance journalist for many Greek newspapers and English magazines and has also written books on the life and works of Dora Stratou, on the Herod Atticus theatre and on the remarkable life of Aikaterini – Rosa Botsari. For more information on Katerina Agrafioti’s digital jewellery, check www.spark.gr

insider athens | May & June 2012 41

Wellness

Healthy body, healthy mind

Personal trainer Konstantinos Agriodimos shares with Athens Insider the benefits of exercising regularly and on improving flexibility stamina and posture through Pilates

Could you tell us a little bit about the benefits of Pilates and how is it a complete exercise routine compared to other forms of exercise?

Pilates is a body-conditioning method that works in a different way to other fitness techniques. Targeting the deep postural muscles, it works by building strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct alignment.What is really different and interesting about Pilates comparing to other types of exercise is that it enables you to learn how to use minimum effort to do certain movements thus allowing freeing up your energy. Stamina is increased as Pilates works on all muscles of the body. Pilates also helps improve your posture and enhances the respiratory/lymphatic and circulatory system. Many people practice Pilates for medical reasons as it is highly recommended by chiropractors and osteopaths. Movements in Pilates are controlled, graceful and muscles are worked with control through their full range of movement resulting in long muscles with greater flexibility and strength. Most people do not understand that it is harder to perform an exercise slowly than quickly.

Could you describe a typical training exercise routine?

A typical training routine would begin with teaching the individuals how to learn awareness of the body as well as helping them to release tension and maintain correct body alignment. Later on, lateral/thoracic breathing is taught with co-ordinated movements that build the powerhouse (centre). For the beginners we teach small range motion skills that isolate the key muscles moving on to more challenging choreographed sequences, always maintaining the correct alignment.

Breathing techniques are an integral part of Pilates. Could you explain how one can benefit from it?

First of all correct breathing is a way of cleansing the body, increasing oxygen levels, stimulating circulation and digestion. It releases endorphins and can act like an internal massage for the heart and the liver. In lateral breathing we breathe deeply, all the way down the spine and into the pelvic bowl, but emphasize expanding the breath into the back and

42 insider athens | May & June 2012

sides of the ribcage. When the abs are pulled in properly, they protect the spine and act like a supportive corset for the whole trunk. It helps make the scoop of abs easier and enhances the sense of lengthening the spine with the breath. As Joseph Pilates once said "Squeeze out the lungs as you would wring a wet towel dry. Soon the entire body is charged with fresh oxygen from toes to fingertips, just as the head of the steam in a boiler rushes to every radiator in the house."

Can you give us some useful tips when practising Pilates?

Concentration: This is vital during Pilates as it requires you to train the mind as well as the body.You must be consciously aware of your body and it's movements Relaxation: It is important to relax tight muscles before you try and strengthen weak ones. Otherwise, the tight muscles will inhibit the action.

Alignment: The goal is for the individual to recognise good alignment themselves, so that they can take this knowledge into their everyday activities.

Core Stability: Abdominal training is the key to every exercise as it supports and protects the spine.

Why should one choose personal training?

Personal training is highly beneficial as people tend to work out better when they have an instructor guiding them. In addition, they learn to do the exercises correctly as often we hear of injuries while exercising. In personal training, that is very unlikely to happen. The instructor elaborates a personal fitness routine to satisfy each individual’s personal goals. The exercises that we practice in Pilates are all based on the centre of the body - we call it the powerhouse in Pilates. When the powerhouse is strong enough it enables individuals to correct their posture, it re-defines the right body movement.

K.Agriodimos, a graduate of the University of Physical Education in Athens with speciality in ski instruction and gymnastics is a personal instructor for celebrities and industrialists and has had years of experience in gyms and fitness centres in Athens.

Contact: 6981743793

“It is better to prevent than to cure” Hippocrates

NEW DEPARTMENTS: Evroiatriki Psihiko opened in June 2011. Designed to achieve high aesthetic levels, a patient-friendly environment was created.

Evroiatriki Psihiko is a state of the art diagnostic center, aiming at providing high quality preventive and diagnostic examination services, carried out by qualified personnel, using state of the art equipment and innovative digital applications.

A well-organized medical images and patient history archive is built through an innovative digital storage system, offering thus the possibility of comparison with the results of subsequent examinations.

Evroiatriki Psihiko provides primary care services to patients affiliated to almost all public and private insurances.

MICROBIOLOGY TESTS HEMATOLOGY TESTS CHEMICAL TESTS ENDOCRINOLOGY TESTS IMMUNOLOGY TESTS SPECIALIZED TESTS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY HOLTER MONITORING AMBULATORY BLOOD PRESSURE HOLTER ECG HOLTER

Hours of operation: Monday to Friday: 8:00 to 21:00 Saturday: 8:00 to 13:00

28 Αdrianiou St. & Α. Veaki 115 25 Νeo Psihiko Τel : 210 6770 200 210 6911 668 Fax: 210 6752 540 e-mail: info@euromedic.gr www.euromedic.gr

DEPARTMENT OF ULTRASOUND: ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSIS OF VASCULAR DISEASE (COLOR DOPPLER ULTRASOUND-TRIPLEX OF ABDOMINAL AORTA, ILIAC ARTERIES & VEINS, CAROTID & VERTERBRAL ARTERIES, UPPER & LOWER EXTREMITIES ARTERIES & VEINS, PORTAL VEIN & HEPATIC ARTERY & VEINS, PENILE & SCROTAL ARTERIES & VEINS, OPHTHALMIC ARTERY & VEIN)•TRANSCRANIAL DOPPLER ULTRASOUND OF CEREBRAL ARTERIES•AV FISTULA PREOPERATIVE VASCULAR MAPPING & POSTOPERATIVE FOLLOWUP•TRANSPLANT KIDNEY VASCULAR ULTRASOUND•ABDOMINAL & PELVIC ULTRASOUND•THYROID ULTRASOUND•BREAST ULTRASOUND•SCROTUM ULTRASOUND•PEDIATRIC ULTRASOUND•MUSCULOSKELETAL ULTRASOUND•TRANSRECTAL & TRANSVAGINAL ULTRASOUND•ULTRASOUND GUIDED ORGAN BIOPSIES (THYROID, PROSTATE)•ULTRASOUND EVALUATION OF ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION•ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSIS OF CHRONIC CEREBROSPINAL VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY (CCSVI)•X-RAY DEPARTMENT: DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY•BONE DENSITY MEASUREMENTS

p u g n i Brew m r o a st

44 insider athens | May & June 2012

Postcard from Melbourne A Greek-Australian dares to enter the competitive domain of microbrewing. Mike Sweet is sold with the first mouthful of the recently launched handcrafted beer, La Sirene. Athens Insider raises a toast to Costa Nikias’ delicate, refreshing, yeasty brew.

I

’ve arranged to meet Greek Australian Costa Nikias in one of Melbourne's most popular bars for sampling handcrafted beers. The Beer Deluxe cafe is nestled in the heart of the city and of course they stock Costa’s recently launched La Sirene brand, so it just has to be tasted.

"It's a yeast-driven beer," says 34 year-old Nikias enthusiastically, slowly pouring out the pale straw-coloured cloudy concoction, "so you should get some orange blossom aromatically, some honeysuckle, and a rounded finish on the palate." For sure, it's a delicate, refreshing, yeasty brew. I'm sold with the first mouthful.

Created from a 400 year-old recipe Nikias found in a village in the Wallonia region of France, La Sirene was released last December and has found growing popularity with discerning drinkers in Victoria’s vibrant capital.

Brewed in the high country of the state, La Sirene is the first incarnation of Nikias' microbrewery that he combines with his own brewing consultancy.

Having worked in the business for others for ten years, La Sirene was created specifically says Nikias to plug a hole in the local market for FrenchBelgian rustic style beers made with authentic ingredients. Having spied a similar gap in the Asia-Pacific region, it's through his consultancy work that he has begun riding a wave of interest internationally in setting up commercial microbreweries.

"With 168 microbreweries in Australia and more coming online weekly, there's exponential growth," says Nikias, who has created a perfect position to ride a wave and redefine brewing business models.

"There are two different types of people who do this - there are the home brewers, who want to realise a dream, and then there are the business heads, who want to keep their full-time job in banking or whatever, and create a microbrewery as a sideline. I help both."

Born in Adelaide, Costa puts his brewing passion down to his genes.

"Mum's from Nemea in the Peloponnese," says Nikias who was born in Adelaide, "so maybe it's in the blood.”

Costa began his journey to brewing by helping set up vineyards in the Maclaren Vale region of South Australia – one of Australia’s most renowned wine regions.

“Working with wine sparked my interest. But I always had more of a passion for beer,” says Costa.

“It's a very artisan approach - producing a beer by hand in a true craft manner.

"With La Sirene, we're selling around 3000 bottles a month to 25 key accounts at the moment in inner-city Melbourne, but it's all we need.”

The trick says Costa is to make it a sought-after product. “We just look at small shops and bars, we're not interested in hitting the mass market that's a very conscious decision on our part. This is a refined niche product, and most of the promotion of the brand happens through social media."

The jetsetting Nikias admits that surpassing La Sirene's success, it his globetrotting consultancy work that keeps him busiest. His advice on constructing successful microbrewing businesses is in high demand.

"Customers need a complete turn-key solution; how to start a business, how to brew, the technology needed," says Nikias, who recently returned from China to scope brewing equipment for one of his many clients.

"The consultancy work takes me overseas a lot - New Zealand, Indonesia,

the Philippines, the US. I teach how to brew, recipe development, how to find the right site and equipment, and also how to assess a project's financial feasibility.

"To develop your own microbrewery, you need to be looking at capital investment of close to 400,000 euros minimum," says Nikias.

"Once you begin to produce, you need to be making 2000 litres or more per batch, and then selling that amount. After that you'll start to see profit trickling in, and that can go to paying back on the equipment and reinvestment."

Key to being a commercially successful microbrewer is to be well funded at the development stage, and have a burning ambition to brew says Nikias.

"It's more than making a profit, you need to have a real passion for beer if you want to make a go of this, and above all, you have to make sure you have a point of difference."

Nikias says he’s keen to develop connections with Greece in relation to microbrewing, an industry which he is adamant offers opportunities for creating new and successful business models.

“The Greek brewing scene has been pretty stagnant, but there is a revolution starting. It’s a market I want to help develop if I can, given my background. For me it’s a natural pairing.”

For more on Costa Nikias go to www.beverageandbrewingconsulting.com

insider athens | May & June 2012 45

A Scandi-licious Smorgasbord!

Scandinavian cuisine has been slowly making its way into food capitals around the world as the coolest food trend of the moment. Noma’s selection as the World’s Best Restaurant in 2012 and its chef, René Redzepi being named one of two restaurant industry people on Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People, has added to its allure. Sudha Nair-Iliades reviews Safka, the only Scandinavian restaurant in Athens.

46 insider athens | May & June 2012

Restaurant review

S

afka is tucked away, as one would expect of anything Scandinavian, discreetly, on the busy Megalou Alexandrou street in the paradoxically upscale and decrepit Kerameikos district. The restaurant’s name is spelt on a side wall, not in screaming neon, but in matt metal. Named for food in Helsinki slang, Safka is also an amalgamation of the names of siblings, Samu and Marika Koskinnen, whose brainchild the restaurant is.

Partly tempted to discover a cuisine beyond pickled herring clichés and meatball and potato prejudices, we ventured to dine at Safka on a balmy May evening. Safka, is located in the immediate vicinity of other trendy gourmet eateries that have lent Kerameikos some street cred as a happening district, such as Athiri, Aleria, the Michelin-starred Funky Gourmet and Polly Maggoo.

Walking into the restaurant, one is immediately struck by the harmonious blend of blue-collar Greek and the high aesthetics and simplicity of Scandinavian design. Marika, who has been living in Greece for over twenty years, explains, “We wanted the venue to reflect Nordic sensibilities in terms of style and eco-consciousness as well as Kerameikos’ unique industrial character.” For the restaurant, architect Panagiota Kamperou expertly blends recycleable materials such as compressed wood and crude iron with brilliantly hued walls in green to recreate a space that is warm and welcoming. The only adornments on the walls are Marika’s brilliant photographs of abandoned homes in central Athens with peeling walls and crumbling facades, mounted on aluminum frames. The result is dramatic and elegant. The images on the wall are also reminiscent of the highs and lows that this quarter has experienced over the past few decades – a brief revival six years ago as the

insider athens | May & June 2012 47

Restaurant review

cultural hot-spot to a sudden slump again post-crisis. Marika, who followed her childhood dream of setting up a restaurant and scouted around for the perfect spot is clearly in love with Kerameikos’ fickle fate and unique energy. “ I live in Kifissia which is pretty and proper but there is simply no place like Kerameikos for its dynamics and its diversity.”

Marika’s brother, chef Samu, who had a successful career in Helsinki finally moved to Athens in late 2011, just ahead of the restaurant opening in March earlier this year. The siblings consulted each other on all aspects of the restaurant, from the menu to the decor. The chairs in the main restaurant area are those of Finnish industrial design legend, Alvar Aalto from the 1920s. The same attention to detail is also found in the bathrooms where industrial faucets with bright red levers make a stark counterpoint to the uber-stylish rectangular ceramic sink while the oversized rubber boots that hang on the bathroom door make a humorous allusion to Finland’s notoriously inclement weather.

We chose to dine outside in the restaurant’s extremely spacious courtyard surrounded by 10 metre-high century-old walls. Marika explains that an old neo-classical structure had been pulled down to make way for an industrial warehouse in the ‘20s. “We preferred not to plaster the walls so that we could actually see the traces of the rooms and hope to use it to display video installations in the future.”

Scandinavians have always been known for their beautifully crafted tableware and linen and it is only a matter of deduction that a people who care so much about the way a table looks would also care about the food that’s put on it. And Safka doesn’t disappoint in conveying the simplicity and clean flavours of Nordic cooking.

“Nordic cuisine is very similar to its architecture - very clean, very sober, simple with really beautiful ingredients,” Marika explains. To cook the Scandinavian way is to re-create the past. Scandinavia’s isolation inevitably helped spawn many local dishes and traditions. Something much more elemental has also been at work to determine the

character of the food and cooking, and this is winter, an inescapable fact of life in the North. For centuries, the thinking of the people was shaped by it, and they devoted their energy during the short, hectic growing season to making sure that they’d live through the winter. If many of the foods of the area have a salty or smoky taste, or are pickled or dried, it’s largely because of winter.

Scandinavian ingredients come from the sea, a fresh-water lake, or even the earth. From sweet berries to wild game and cured fish, Scandinavian cuisine relies heavily on wild, natural ingredients. And some, like the lingonberry or the mushroom, don’t only come from the forest, but bring a breath of pines or birches to the table with them.

The cooking is pure and simple. Foods taste of themselves. It’s this palatable communion with nature that makes Scandinavian food appealing. Scandinavian food is also romantic. The clean, simple recipes are fjord-fresh and conjure up images of snowy tundras and stark, brilliant sunshine.

Chef Samu shares the secrets of his relatively unknown native cuisine to a hungry audience and his “plucked from the ground, plucked from the sea” approach is evident in the menu, which changes according to the seasonality of the produce.

For starters, we ordered Skagen with pickled onion, shrimp, egg salad, and dill mayonnaise, thinly sliced roast beef and yellow leg mushrooms with lingonberry jam and horseradish sauce and green asparagus with brown butter Hollandaise sauce. The mix of sweet, sour and the slightly pungent aftertaste of horseradish are subtle yet potent.

For mains, we’d highly recommend freshly smoked Norwegian salmon with a white wine chive sauce (Chef Samu smokes his fish in his own stovetop smoker for that indescribable woody flavour)and the caramelized pork served with sour cabbage. We chose a particularly crisp Papargyriou white to accompany our meal and on the recommendation of the maitre’d, we settled for a chocolate fondant with raspberry ice-cream and blueberry almond tart with buttermilk sorbet for dessert.

The bar menu is very reasonably priced at just 7 euros a head and a meal here is € 28-34, excluding wine.

A few good reasons to visit Safka: great choice of music, cool décor, attentive service and its refreshingly different cuisine priced just right.

Closed on Sundays and Mondays Safka, Meg.Alexandrou 80-82. Tel: Tel: 210 524 3340

48 insider athens | May & June 2012

Victor Vasarely, © Vasarely Estate -detail-

All M.C. Escher works © The M.C. Escher Company B.V. - Baarn - the NETHERLANDS

ART& MATHEMATICS M.C.ESCHER / V.VASARELY

Exhibition

Guided Tours in English for groups presented 7 days a week upon appointment The entire presentation is conducted in the form of a dialogue, with the active engagement of the participants.

There will also be a projection of relative audiovisual material.

Cost per person: 25 Euro Minimum number of participants: 10 Timely registration is required by telephone at 210-34-61-981 during office days and hours.

From the aesthetics of Art to the logic of Mathematics and Philosophy A voyage from Ancient Greece to the Modern World A pleasant two-hour tour / introduction to the world of art, mathematics, philosophy, and the way these interrelate. Learn what exactly was classical Greece’s contribution to mathematics, art, and philosophy and how all this formed the basis for the Renaissance and the developments of the modern world.

www.herakleidon.com/en

16 Herakleidon str. Thissio, Athens (close to Apostolou Pavlou str.)

Metro: Thissio • Tel.: +30 210 34 61 981 Museum hours: Friday 13:00 - 21:00 Saturday & Sunday 11:00 - 19:00 www.herakleidon.com - info@herakleidon-art.gr

Restaurant review

New flavours, new spirits Thai cuisine and Greek wines at wallet-friendly prices

Tamarind Thai Kitchen Angela Skourlis who runs this new Asian eatery in town hopes to capture a niche in the saturated Athenian gastronomic scene with Thai specialities in a vividly turquoise setting. Located in the gritty yet trendy Metaxourgeio adjunct, Tamarind Thai Kitchen has chef Arirat Chuathong its helm. Starters are reasonably priced at 7.5-8 euros and the restaurants’ namesake sweet-sour tamarind sauce accompanies most dishes. Ideal for an evening out to try out something truly different.

Tamarind Thai Kitchen, Kerameikou 51, Metaxourgeio.

Tel: 210 5225 945

Oinoscent Oinoscent functions as a wine cellar as well as a cool hang-out and stocks around 500 labels from small producers of quality wines from Greek and international vineyards. Wines by the glass are priced at between 4 and 6 euros while customers can open any bottle from the cellar for an 8 euro surcharge on the price. The bar also stocks beers, grappa, porto and single malts. Pick up a conversation with Michael, one of Oinoscent’s owners and he will guide you through the cellar’s little known gems. For those looking for an after-work drink in the city centre, Oinoscent is a bright new option (its walls in vivid yellow are sure to liven crisis-dampened souls) and if you get pecky, the bar offers a fairly satisfying sausage and cheese platter. Open from 10am to midnight and until 1 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Oinoscent, Voulis 44A Syntagma. Tel: 2103229374

50 insider athens | May & June 2012

Insider guide refer to corresponding area for more information and contact details

restaurant index by type AMERICAN JACKSON HALL Kolonaki TGI FRIDAY’S Kolonaki

ARGENTINEAN ORO TORO Vouliagmeni

ASIAN Far East Glyfada Golden Phoenix Halandri Wagamama Maroussi

BAR - RESTAURANTS Apsendi Halandri BACARO Omonia BALTHAZAR Mavili Sq BARAONDA Mavili Sq Eclipse Kolonaki KITCHEN BAR Faliro & Halandri FRAME Kolonaki GINGER Mavili Sq ISLAND Vouliagmeni NIXON Kerameikos SEMIRAMIS RESTAURANT Kifissia SHOWROOM Kolonaki

FISH RESTAURANTS Ai Nikolas Syngrou CAPTAIN JOHN’S Piraeus ITHAKI Vouliagmeni JIMMY AND THE FISH Piraeus KASTELORIZO Kifissia Kollias Syngrou LA PECHE Glyfada MILOS Hilton MYTHOS OF THE SEA Vouliagmeni PAPADAKIS Kolonaki PLOUS PODILATOU Piraeus Psaroma Halandri THALATTA Gazi TO VAROULKO Kerameikos ZEFYROS Piraeus

FISH TAVERNAS Almyra Halandri DOURAMBEIS Piraeus Ichthyes Kifissia KOLLIAS Piraeus MAISTRALI Vouliagmeni PSARAKI Vouliagmeni TRATA O STELIOS Pangrati VASSILENAS Piraeus

FRENCH L’ABREUVOIR Kolonaki LE PETIT SOMMELIER Faliro SPONDI Pangrati TARTARE Glyfada VARDIS Kifissia

GOURMET Bo Botrini’s Halandri KUZINA Thissio Eclipse Kolonaki Essence Kifissia Fuga Mavili Square Funky Gourmet Kerameikos P-Box Kolonaki Polly Magoo Metaxurgeio PremiEre Syngrou

GREEK 2 MAZI Plaka ATHIRI Kerameikos Berdema Kifissia CUCINA POVERA Pangrati DAKOS Kolonaki DIPORTO Psyrri EDODI Acropolis FASOLI Exarhia IDEAL Omonia KARAVITIS Pangrati KAVOURAS Exarhia MANI MANI Acropolis PLATANOS Plaka PROSOPA Gazi TO KOUTI Monastiraki YANTES Exarhia YDRIA Plaka

GRILL 1920 Halandri Meat Square Glyfada & Halandri Meatropoleos 3 Syntagma Telemachos Barbeque Club Kifissia

INDIAN Indian Kitchen Syntagma Indian Masala Thissio ISKANDAR Alimos JAIPUR PALACE Maroussi

INTERNATIONAL Ache Glyfada Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissia

ITALIAN AGLIO OLIO Acropolis ACQUA AZZURA Kifissia AL BACIO Vouliagmeni AL FRESCO Vouliagmeni AL MILANESE Kolonaki ALTRO Kolonaki BOSCHETTO Kolonaki CANTUCCIO Psyrri DA VINCI Ag. Paraskevi DVLCIS IN FVNDO Voula GENOVESE Voula LA CASA DI GIORGINO Gyfada IL SEGRETO Voula Il Tinello Faliro Mauzac Maroussi Matilde Pizza Bar Gazi MEZZA LUNA Vouliagmeni MULTI 22 Syntagma Nanninela Ag. Paraskevi Pausa Maroussi Piazza Mela Kifissia, Novo Romantico di Antonio Halandri SALE E PEPE Kolonaki SCALA VINOTECA Kolonaki TONY BONANO Piraeus VINCENZO Glyfada

JAPANESE COO Kolonaki DOSIRAK Syntagma FAR EAST Syntagma

FREUD ORIENTAL Kolonaki FURIN KAZAN Syntagma GOLDEN PHOENIX Kifissia INBI Kolonaki KIKU Kolonaki MATSUHISA ATHENS Vouliagmeni NOODLE BAR Syntagma SHOGUN Kifissia Square Sushi Kolonaki

KOSHER KOL TUV Monastiraki

LEBANESE BEIRUT Glyfada NARA NARA Psyrri NARGILE Kifissia

MEDITERRANEAN AIOLI RESTAURANT Glyfada Alatsi Hilton Apla Kifissia BEREKET Glyfada BRACHERA Monastiraki BYZANTINE RESTAURANT Hilton CAFE AVYSSINIAS Monastiraki CAFE BOHEME Kolonaki CAFE TABAC Vouliagmeni Common Secret Kifissia DalI Halandri DAPHNE’S RESTAURANT Plaka DORIS Monastiraki Essence Kifissia FATSIO Pangrati GB CORNER Syntagma GRILL ROOM Vouliagmeni HYTRA Plaka IDEAL RESTAURANT Omonia KITRINO PODILATO Gazi KOUZINA CINE-PSIRRI Psyrri MAGEMENOS AVLOS Pangrati Mauzac Kifissia MEIDANIS Monastiraki OCHRE & BROWN Psyrri Olio by Portofino Ag. Paraskevi PARLIAMENT Syntagma PRYTANEION Kolonaki PSARAKI Vouliagmeni RATKA Kolonaki TA KIOUPIA Kolonaki TO KOUTI Monastiraki ZEPHYROS Piraeus ZORBAS Piraeus

MEXICAN AMIGOS Glyfada DOS HERMANOS Kifissia EL TACO BUENO Maroussi Santa Fe Halandri

PUB RESTAURANTS BAYERN BIERHAUS MICROBREWERY Glyfada BEER ACADEMY glyfada MOLLY MALONE’S Glyfada

RETRO Aneton Maroussi

ROOFTOP DINING ELECTRA Plaka GALAXY BAR Hilton IOANNIS Syntagma LE GRAND BALCON Kolonaki ORIZONTES LYKAVYTTOU Kolonaki ST’ASTRA Mavili Sq

SOUVLAKIA AND KEBAB BUTCHER’S SHOP Gazi DREAM GRILL Voula Gourounakia Kifissias Kifissia KALAMAKI KOLONAKI Kolonaki KILIZA Glyfada NAIADES Voula SAVVAS Monastiraki SCHARA Vouliagmeni SIGALAS-BAIRAKTARIS Monastiraki Souvlaki Bar Thissio THANASSIS Monastiraki Tike Kifissia

SPANISH Barceloneta Kifissia PUERTA DE ESPANA Pangrati SALERO Exarhia

TAVERNAS FILIPOU Kolonaki LOUIZIDIS Vouliagmeni MAMACAS Gazi Meat Me Kifissia O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas Kifissia SKOUFIAS Exarhia VLASSIS Hilton

THAI ROYAL THAI Kifissia

VEGETARIAN Avocado Syntagma

WINE BARS L’Enoteca Halandri Whispers of wine Maroussi

Westin Kids Club

MEZEDES AND OUZO ATHINAIKON Omonia KIRKI Thissio OUZADIKO Kolonaki SCHOLARHEIO Plaka

MULTI ETHNIC Altamira Kolonaki

POLYNESIAN KONA KAI Syngrou

Register Now!

210.890.2000 insider athens | May & June 2012 51

Insider guide SHOP Gifts Greece is for Lovers

Salero

Prosopa

Valtetsiou 51, Tel: 210.381.3358 Spanish and mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Exarhia

Meg. Vasiliou 52 & Konstantinoupoleos 4 Tel: 210.341.3433, Delicious dishes in a warm atmosphere right beside the train tracks. A popular gay haunt.

Skoufias Lontou 4, Tel: 210.382.8206 Exceptional entrees you are unlikely to find elsewhere

Aglio Olio &

Exarhia

Peperonicino

SHOP Syllektiko Paleopolio Asklipiou 41, Tel: 210.364.1718 Antiques of all sorts and restoration services

Vinyl Microstore Didotou 34, Tel: 210.361.4544 New vinyls & cds; also reissues from the 60s & more

Beles 1 and Androutsou Tel: 210.924.7655 Raisin bread, almond shortbread, yummy cookies & tasty loaves

Valtetsiou 44, Tel: 210.330.1369 Modern Greek cuisine prepared with organic ingredients. 20 Euros per person

DRINK

DRINK Circus Bar Navarinou 11, Tel: 210.361.5255 Attracts a hip and happening crowd in a cozy space

Ginger Ale

EAT

Butcher’s Shop

Mamacas Persefonis 41, Tel: 210.346.4984 Modern taverna located in an old barrel warehouse offering traditional Greek fare

Themistokleous 64, Tel: 210.381.0202 Dine while enjoying live Rebetika music

Veikou 80 , Tel: 210.921.3013 Fresh ingredients presented at your table, then cooked to perfection

Matilde Pizza Bar Makriyanni 19-21, Tel: 210.923.8124 Homemade ice cream and waffles

Constantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210 3411878 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cosy setting

Mani Mani

Kitrino Podilato

Falirou 10. Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches

52 insider athens | May & June 2012

Andronikou 4, Tel: 210.342.4994 A staple of Athenian nightlife

Grande Dame

Arahovas 56 & Themistokleous Tel: 210.383.5811, One of the oldest summer cinemas in Athens is a picturesque place for a retro-tinged drink

Edodi

Gelato-CafĂŠ

Barouge

Vox

Persefonis 19, Tel: 210.341.3440 Traditional psistaria serving grilled meat dishes

Kavouras

Triptolemou 12, Tel: 210.347.4763 Lounge in a modern atmosphere while listening to music from around the world

Dirty Ginger

EAT

Emanouil Benaki 45 , Tel: 210.330.0010 A great meal in an uplifting environment

Almaz

Themistokleous 74, Tel: 210.330.1246 Enjoy a cocktail or a coffee in a retro pop atmosphere

Kallidromiou 87-89, Tel: 210.881.1233 Imported second-hand clothes; individuality guaranteed

Fasoli

Asimenia Bakery

Vitonos 5, Tel: 210.346.4204 Fresh seafood creations

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Yesterday's Bread

Mani Mani

Thalatta

Yantes

Gazi

EAT

Porinou 13 , Tel: 210.921.1801 Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy setting, accompanied by luscious salads and homemade dolci

Central Athens

Keramikou 116, Tel: 210.346.5830 Mediterranean cuisine in a modern industrial atmosphere

Triptolemou 46, Tel: 210.342.3809 Excellent cocktails Persefonis 23, Tel: 210.341.6412 Chic bar serving elaborate champagne cocktails

Nipiagogeio Elasidon & Kleanthous 8 Tel: 210.345.8534, For late-night dancing to funky electronic music

Villa Mercedes Andronikou & Tzaferi 11 Tel: 210.342.2380 Mega club ideal for all-night dancing

Live Greek Music Athinon Arena Pireos 166, Tel: 210.347.1111 The latest in live Greek music acts

Hilton

Karyatidon 13A Tel: 210.924.5064 www.greeceisforlovers.com Tongue-in-cheek souvenirs for the discerning traveller

Ilias Lalaounis museum

Acropolis

Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

EAT Alatsi Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Cretan specialties

Byzantine Restaurant

Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1400 Traditional Greek recipes with a Mediterranean twist

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.724.4400 Simply prepared local flavours.

Guaranteed value for money

Milos Garden

Vlassis Neandrou 15, Tel: 210.646.3060 & 210.725.6335, Family-run taverna serving traditional Greek food

To Varoulko

Jack in the Box

DKNY

Pireos 80, Tel: 210.522.8400 Seafood prepared by Michelin star-winning chef Lefteris Lazarou

Haritos 13, Tel: 210.725.8735 Beautiful wooden toys and more

Solonos 8, Tel: 210.360.3775 Classic American sportswear

Marie Chantal Boutique

Elina Lebessi

Spefsippou 11, Tel: 210.722.2029 Old-fashioned chic for little princes and princesses

Iraklitou 13, Tel: 210.363.1731 Ethereal frocks, pretty tea-dresses and accessories from around the world

Mouyer

Ermenegildo Zegna

Kanari 8, Tel: 210.361.7714 Good-quality orthopaedic shoes as well as funkier styles

Skoufa 18, Tel: 210.361.3700 Home of fine fabrics and handsome tailor-finished suits

Kolonaki

Milos

SHOP Antiques Kilim Hali Valaoritou 9 Tel: 210.363.7056 www.kilimhali.gr Antique carpets from around the world

Beauty & Cosmetics Apivita

Kanari 24, Tel: 210.362.7334 Fairytale dresses in lace and embroidery from Greece's doyenne designer

Hugo Boss Amerikis 19, Tel: 210.360.0516 Smart separates for a work wardrobe Kanari 8, Tel: 210.362.7768 Menswear from Armani, Boss and Allen Edmonds brogues

Kalogirou

Frattina Kanari 21, Tel: 210.360.4481 Casual clothing and gifts for kids Bespoke Athens

Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1801 Indoor and outdoor pools

Olive Tree Spa Chatzigiani Mexi 4 Tel: 210.724.4425

EAT Funky Gourmet

Bespoke Athens Anagnostopoulou 15-17 Tel: 210.364.5518, Made-to-measure suits and shirts from top international tailors

Athiri

Kanari 18, Tel: 210.361.4155 Greece's design ambassadors create structural separates and heavenly bridal gowns. www.deuxhommes.gr

Agisilaou 61B, Tel: 210.346.2077 Burgers, a private cinema & an artsy crowd. Open for brunch on Sundays at noon

Kathy Heyndels Patriarchou Ioakeim 21 Tel: 210.729.9966 Greek label selling barely-there gowns and basics with a twist

Kanari 12, Tel: 210.362.7123 Designer items from Prada, Brioni, Donna Karan, Fendi and other top-flight brands

Coach

Nixon

Patriarchou Ioakim 4, Tel: 210.335.6401 Fetish footwear from Prada, Tod's & Casadei

Carouzos

Paramythias 13 and Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 2727 Haute cuisine in art deco interior Plataion 15, Tel: 210.346.2983 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine in beautiful surroundings

Giorgio Armani

Incrocio

Kanari 5, Tel: 210.339.2597 Designer togs for tots

Hiltonia Health & Wellness Club

Voukourestiou 50 Tel: 210.364.1308 A haven of hip, carrying labels from Balenciaga to Martin Margiela to Marlene Birger

Children Galaxy Bar

Kerameikos

Atelier Loukia

Free Shop

Koumbari 8, Tel: 210.361.3603 Suit- and dress-maker to the stars

Bambineria

CHILL

Fashion

Solonos 26 Tel: 210.364.0560 Shop natural Greek cosmetics, get a prescription cream made up and have a quick massage

DRINK Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1402 Rooftop cocktails in a chic atmosphere

Central Athens

Tsakalof 28, Tel: 210.362.5669 Leather totes and luggage in easy American style

Deux Hommes

Diesel Skoufa 3, Tel: 210.362.2748 A treasure trove of denim, and all the hip accoutrements to go with it

Dior Boutique Voukourestiou 18-20, Tel: 210 361.3014 High-end designer fashion

insider athens | May & June 2012 53

Insider guide Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

La Perla

Preview

Spefsippou 14, Tel: 210.729.9720 Lingerie to flaunt

Patriarchou Ioakim 19 Tel: 210.722.4731 High fashion designer shoes

Lacoste Solonos 5, Tel: 210.361.8030 French take on American sportswear

Lanvin Iraklitou 9 Tel: 210.360.8315 Alber Elbaz's gloriously chic take on the classic French couture house

Linea Piu Sekeri 6, Tel: 210 360.6125 Collections from exclusive fashion houses including Chanel, Galliano, Lagerfeld and Sonia Rykiel

Luisa Skoufa 15, Tel: 210.363.5600 Designer emporium stocked with Chloe, Roberto Cavalli, Ralph Lauren, Missoni & more

Marc by Marc Jacobs Xanthou 3, Tel: 210.363.6030 Budget knick-knacks and must-have casuals from America's fashion hero

Nike Tsakalof 34, Tel: 210.363.6188 Trainers, tracksuits and other swoosh-marked sports paraphernalia

Puma Concept Kanari 17, Tel: 210.361.0516 International sportswear for all ages

Rere Papa Skoufa 62, Tel: 210.364.4300 Distinctive creations by two young Greek women and other international imports

Thalassa Collection Patriarchou Ioakim 30-32 Tel: 210.725.8525 Original silk designs for scarves, ties, shawls & blouses

Christofle Koumbari 5, Tel: 210.362.0483 Classis silver and crystal ideal for wedding gifts

La Fenetre Irodotou 21, Tel: 210.723.5029 Elegant objects and sophisticated gifts for the house, mostly from France

Parousiasi Patriarchou Ioakim 33, Tel: 210.723.7656, A range of international brands in crystal, china and other eye-catching homeware accessories

Jewellery

Vlassis Holevas

Apriati

Anagnostopoulou 19 Tel: 210.361.6167, Elegant fashion with a contemporary twist

Pindarou 29, Tel: 210.360.7878 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Elena Votsi

Flowers Fleria Patriarchou Ioakim 35 Tel: 210.722.9697

Xenokratous 25, Tel: 210.721.3175 Browser-friendly cava with helpful service

Eclipse

Solonos 9, Tel: 210.364.6910 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Vas. Sofias & Koumbari Tel: 210.367.1045, Artefacts and jewellery inspired by the museum’s exhibits

Paul & Shark

Liana Vourakis

Anagnostopoulou 6, Tel: 210.339.2334 Casual yachting styles

Pindarou 42, Tel. 2103617705

Al Milanese Xenokratous 49, Tel: 210.729.4111 Authentic Italian cuisine for the discerning

Altamira (Multi-ethnic) Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210 361 4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine

Altro

Evangelismos Park, Tel: 210.721.0893 Italian food in a lush central setting

Coo

Anagnostopoulou 26-8 Tel: 210.362.2564 For unique baptism and wedding gifts, start here

Dinokratous 1, Tel: 210.725.4008 A Mykonos favourite now in Athens

Dakos

Lylian Syrigou

Tsakalof 6, Tel: 210.894.7040 New-age Cretan specialties

Magia

Benaki Museum Gift Shop

Restaurants

Liana Vourakis

Octopus

Observatory Attitudes

Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948/ Loukianou 21, Tel: 210.729.3453 Desserts and cakes

Cafe Boheme

Gadgets

Gifts

Fresh

Tsakalof 6 & Solonos 25 Tel: 210.323.0739, Greece's highstreet export stocks affordable watches and everyday bijoux

Anagnostopoulou 12, Tel: 210.361.3350 Handcrafted bijoux and one-off designer pieces. www.liliansyrigou.gr

Solonos 15, Tel: 210.363 6677 Quirky designs with a sense of humour

Irodotou 15, Tel: 210.721.2253 For real American homemade cheesecake, brownies and more

Boschetto

Folli Follie

Wine Garage

Cake

Fanourakis

Cava Anthidis

Karneadou 20, Tel: 210.724.5143 Quality picks from the world’s best vineyards; including Greek labels

Bakeries & Patisseries

Haritos 39, Tel: 210.724.2717 Tiny funky restaurant that specializes in Italian food

Food & Wine

Kylix

EAT

Xanthou 7, Tel: 210.360.0936 Conversation-starting pieces in gold and stone Patriarchou Ioakim 23 Tel: 210.721.1762, Unique collection of animal and insect pins & earrings

Ypsilantou 13-15, Tel: 210.725.1050 Comprehensive wine and liquor wholesalers

54 insider athens | May & June 2012

Home

Central Athens

Haritos 18, Tel: 210.724.0697 Ileana Makri's silver jewellery amid eclectic pieces from New York

Oxette Skoufa 37, Tel: 210.339.0547 Trendy, affordable jewellery

Omirou 36, Tel: 210.360.8018 Welcoming nook with Greek cooking and more-ish cocktails

Eclipse (Bar restaurant) Alopekis 21, Tel: 210 364 1545 Fabulous cocktails and creative Mediterranean cuisine by Yiannis Baxevannis

Filipou Xenokratous 19, Tel: 210.721.6390 Home-cooked Greek taverna dishes

Frame

Skoufa 30, Tel: 210.364.2139 Greek silver fashion jewellery

St George Lycabettus Hotel Dinokratous, Tel: 210.721.4368 Exotic cuisine in the heart of Athens

Van Cleef & Arpels

Freud Oriental

Ozzi

Voucourestiou 1, Tel: 210.331.0319 The jeweller of the international jetset

Xenokratous 21, Tel: 210.729.9595 Sushi in a cool setting

Central Athens

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Ouzadiko

Ta Kioupia

Ten

Karneadou 25-26, Tel: 210.729.5484 Traditional Greek appetizers & ouzo

Dinokratous & An Polemou 22 Tel: 210.740.0150 Superb set menu of Greek and Continental classics with refined touches

Ploutarhou 10, Tel: 210.321.7836 One of the most popular hot spots in town

Papadakis Fokilidou 15 & Voukourestiou 47A Tel: 210.360.8621 Paros' legendary gourmet restaurant serving seafood in the heart of Athens

For Creative Cuisine

P-BOX Haritos 24, Periscope hotel Tel: 210 7298556, Simple ingredients, special flavours in a setting designed

by Theodore Zoumboulakis

TGI Friday’s Kolokotroni 35, Kefalari sq.

Tel: 210.623.3945 American restaurant with real steak and barbecue sauce for casual dining!

www.lachocolatiere.gr

W Kanari 24, Tel: 697.270.0712 Private seating areas, speciality cocktails & exclusives events

Cafés Da Capo Tsakalof 1, Tel: 210.243.3902 Long-established people-watching hangout

Peros Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.364.5068 Enjoy a cup of java if you can find a spot

Inbi

Tea

Iraklitou 21, Tel: 210.339.2090 Sushi fusion

To Tsai Soutsou & Likavitou, Tel: 210.338.8941 Tea & tea paraphernalia from around the world

Jackson Hall Milioni 4, Tel: 210.361.6098 Gourmet burgers with all the fixings Ploutarhou 32, Tel: 210.721.8800 Souvlakia on the sidewalk have never been so trendy

Kiku Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi

Prytaneion Milioni 7, Tel: 210.364.3353 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

Ratka Haritos 32, Tel: 210.729.0746 Popular haunt of the rich and almost famous, with cosmopolitan cuisine

Sale e Pepe Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Central

Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.724.5938 The place to see & be seen while sipping on coffee or cocktails

Mai Tai Ploutarhou 18, Tel: 210.725.8306 Early evening cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere

Mavili Sq

Kalamaki Kolonaki

DRINK Balthazar Tsoha 27, Tel: 210.644.1215 Lovely garden and chic interior attracts a cool crowd

Baraonda Tsoha 43, Tel: 210.644.4308 Gourmet cuisine and funky beats

Briki Dorileou 6, Mavili sq.

Tel: 210.654.2380 Trendy hole-in-the-wall hangout

Flower Dorileou 2, Mavili sq.

Tel: 210.643.2111, Fun, funky and affordable watering hole

Scala Vinoteca L'Abreuvoir Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine

Le Grand Balcon St George Lycabettus Hotel, Kleomenous 2, Tel: 210.729.0711 Gourmet Greek cuisine

Orizontes Lycavyttou Lycabettus Hill, Tel: 210.722.7065 Gourmet dining with a spectacular view

Sina 50, Tel: 210.361.0041 Mediterranean restaurant ideal for wining & dining

Showroom Milioni 12, Tel: 210.364.6460 Missoni-designed interiors, serving unique Mediterranean flavours

Square Sushi Deinokratous 65, Tel: 210.725.5236 High-quality sushi & other Japanese favourites

20% Off! Cut this coupon & avail

of 20% off on all exclusive brands at Sephora’s stores in Greece.

insider athens | May & June 2012 55

Insider guide Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

Central Athens

Avissynias 3, Tel: 210.321.7202 Traditional Greek recipes with a European twist overlooking the Acropolis & Observatory

Café Avyssinias

Kynetou 7, Tel: 210.321.7407 Spcializing in regional dishes & live music on weekends

Doris

Praxitelous 30, Tel: 210.323.2671 Hearty stews & pasta dishes at reasonable prices

Kol Tuv

Normanou 4, Tel: 210.524.4049 The only kosher restaurant in Athens serving traditional shabat meals

Meïdanis

Sokratous 3 & Evripidou Tel: 210.324.9073, A menu that is sure to please with speciality oven dishes

Savvas

Mitropoleos 86, Tel: 210.321.9919 Gyros & Middle Eastern dishes like pastourmali

Fuga Vas.Sofias & Kokkali 1, Tel: 210 724 2979 Italian inspired menu by chef Andrea Berton at the Athens Concert Hall

Ginger Dorileou 10-12, Tel: 210.645.1169 Original dishes and innovative combinations in an elegant atmosphere

St’Astra

Metaxurgeio

Alexadras 10, Tel: 210.889.4500 For an unforgettable roof-top dining experience

SHOP Antiques Darousos

Souvlaki Bar

Food & Wine

Mitropoleos 69, Tel: 210.324.4705 A souvlaki lover’s paradise

Arapian

Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210 5150550

To Kouti

Bahar

Pandrosou 36, Tel: 210.321.3842 An eclectic cafe & bookshop

EAT

Evripidou 45, Tel: 210.321.7187 Sausages, pastrami & cured meats

Polly Maggoo

Paleovivliopolio Hiotakis Normanou 7 Tel: 210.324.7835 Historic bookshop houses rare & old books

EAT Bairaktaris Monastiraki Square 2 Tel: 210.321.3036 Old-world taverna serving traditional Greek fare

Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri

SHOP Beauty & Cosmetics Korres Ivikou 8 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.722.2774 Natural Greek products made using Mediterranean herbs

EAT Cucina Povera Evforionos 13 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.756.6008, Greek cuisine with a menu that changes daily

Fatsio Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip

Karavitis Arktinou & Pausaniou Tel: 210.721.5155 Classic Greek cuisine in a dining room lined with wine casks

Magemenos Avlos

Thanassis

Evripidou 41, Tel: 210.321.7238 Old-style butcher shop offers interesting sausages, pasturma & smoked meats

Miran

56 insider athens | May & June 2012

Monastiraki Sq. 2, Tel: 210.321.3036 Century-old restaurant serving a variety of fresh dishes

Normanou 7 Tel: 210.331.1638 Small antique shop in the heart of the flea market

Evripidou 31, Tel: 210.321.7225 Well-known herb haven

Leonidou 80 & Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 1120 Gourmet cuisine in a post-modern and industrial setting.

New hot spot for the trendy

Sigalas-Bairaktaris

Amynta 4, Tel: 210.722.3195 Mediterranean fare, welcoming decor & generous servings

Adrianou 23, Tel: 210.321.3229 Mediterranean fare right next to the ancient agora

Puerta de Espana

DRINK

Spondi

Orea Ellas

Pyrronos 5, Tel: 210.756.4021 A mix of European & more exotic flavours. Voted one of the best in Athens

Omonia

EAT

Monastiraki

Fuga

Athinaikon

Pangrati

Brachera

SHOP

Antinoros 42, Tel: 210.725.8666 Spanish cuisine & live music

Department Stores Hondos Center

Omonia Square, Tel: 210.528.2800 Cosmetics, perfumes, luggage, clothing, & much, much more

EAT Ideal Restaurant

Panepistimiou 46, Tel: 210.330.3000 Greek classics in old-world decor

Bacaro

Sophokleous 1 & Aristidou Tel: 210.321.1882, Lavish Italian and contemporary dishes

Spondi

Trata o Stelios Anagenniseos Sq. 7-9, Tel: 210.729.1533 The best grilled fish in town

Plaka

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr SHOP

Home

Antique

Notoshome

stores

Kratinou 5, Tel: 210.374.3000 Home décor superstore

Maritinos Pandrosou 50 Tel: 210.321.2414 Specializes in 19th Century folk art, embroidery & furniture

Food & wine

EAT Cantuccio Lepeniotou & Ivis 1 Tel: 210.323.3670 Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment

Diporto

Nikis 52, Tel: 210.322.9146 Packaged & fresh speciality foods

Theatrou & Sokratous Tel: 210.321.1463 Old-world tavern offers bargain basics like salads, sardines & fava

Gifts

Kouzina Cine-Psirri

Mesogaia

Amorgos Kodrou 3, Tel: 210.324.3836 Hand-carved & painted furniture

Sari 44, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music

Nara Nara Karaiskaki 26, Tel: 210.331.2091 Lebanese food & dancing

EAT

Ochre & Brown

2 Mazi

Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine

Daphne’s Restaurant Lysikratous 4, Tel: 210.322.7971 Refined classic Greek dishes in a resplendent atmosphere

Electra Nikodimou 18-20, Tel: 210.337.0000 Roof-top dining with Greek cuisine

Platanos Diogenous 4, Tel: 210.322.0666 One of the few remaining tavernas preserving 1940s Athens

Scholarheio Tripodon 14, Tel: 210.324.1605 A traditional tray taverna with old fashioned decor & prices

Ydria

Psyrri

Adrianou 68 & Eolou Tel: 210.325.1619 Taditional Greek cuisine

SHOP

Books

Gadgets

Eleftheroudakis

Public

Panepistimiou 17, Tel: 210.325.8440 The largest foreign language bookstore in Greece

Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.324.6210, Five floors of gaming, gadgets & books

Kauffman Stadiou 28, Tel: 210.322.2160 Mostly French books and small selection of English fiction

Department Stores

DRINK

Attica

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Panepistimiou 9, Tel: 211.180.2600 Home to an array of luxury goods

Soul

Fokas

Evripidou 65, Tel: 210.331.0907 Show off your groovy disco moves

Syntagma

Nikis 48, Tel: 210.322.2839 Creative gourmet dishes that change monthly

Central Athens

SHOP Accessories Bag Stories

Stadiou 41, Tel: 210.325.7770 Clothes, shoes and accessories for men, women & children

Stock House & Travel Ermou 45, Tel: 210.324.7732 Outlet store featuring brands from Parousiasi, Cook Shop & Bag Stories

Gifts Argalios Filellinon 7, Tel: 210.322.2659 Hand-woven fabrics & souvenirs since 1940

Graf Von Faber-Castell Boutique Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.321.8564 Traditional hand-held writing utensils

Kori Mitropoleos 13, Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery

Psarros 1917 Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.322.0908 Executive gifts and smoking accessories

Home

Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.323.7405 Luggage & travel bags by Tumi, Porsche Design, Rimowa & Delsey

Fashion - Men’s

Antiques

Flowers

Jewellery

Antiqua

Dromoloulouda

Apriati

Vassilis Amalias 2-4, Tel: 210.323.2220 One of the oldest antique stores in Athens

Fashion Christoforos Kotentos

Beauty & Cosmetics

Sachtouri 3, Tel: 210.325.5434 Glamorous & unique designs

MAC Ermou 44, Tel: 210.325.8260 International cosmetic brand for women who like to play with colour

Pagoni Akadimias 61, Tel: 210.363.9277 Selling ties and cufflinks since 1933

Voulis 15, Tel: 210.323.2321 Specializing in arrangements with wild flowers, many indigenous to Greece

Food & Wine Aristokratikon Karageorgi Servas 9, Tel: 210.322.0546 Handmade chocolates

Cellier Kriezotou 1, Tel: 210.361.0040 Speciality wine shop

Baccarat Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.2863 Fine crystal from the venerable French luxury house

Pentelis 9 & Mitropoleos, Tel: 210.322.9020 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Bulgari Voukourestiou 8, Tel: 210.324.7118 Opulent designs in jewellery, watches & accessories

Cartier Voukourestiou 7, Tel: 210.331.3600 Two floors of designs & timepieces by the prestigious Cartier maison

insider athens | May & June 2012 57

Insider guide Gofas

Vassilis Zoulias Old Athens

Parliament

Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.331.7540 High-end timepieces

Akadimias 30, Tel: 210.361.4762 Handmade shoes and handbags inspired by films of the 50s & 60s

Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 International cuisine with Mediterranean accents

Ilias Lalaounis Panepistimiou 6, Tel: 210.361.1371 Fabulous gold designs by famous Greek jeweller

EAT

Kessaris

Avocado

Panepistimiou 7, Tel: 210.323.2919 Wide range of luxury brand timepieces

Nikis 30, Tel: 210 3237878 Vegetarian restaurant

Cellier Le Bistrot

Marathianakis

Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.363.8525 Excellent dishes accompany the extensive list of international wines

Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.7118 Old-world shop known for its original & elegant designs

Zolotas

Chopard Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou 210.325.0555 Legendary time pieces and jewellery.

Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.360.1272 Designs inspired by the antique & classical periods as well as contemporary collections by designers like Paloma Picasso

Shoes

Folli Follie

Spiliopoulos

Ermou 18, Tel: 210.323.0739 Trendy & affordable jewellery & accessories

Ermou 63, Tel: 210.322.7590 Pick up a pair of Manolo’s at half price!

Paul

Dosirak Voulis 31-33, Tel: 210.323.3330 Japanese & Korean cuisine in the heart of Athens

Far East Stadiou 7, Tel: 210.323.4996 A mix of Asian cuisines in elegant surroundings

Furin Kazan Apollonos 2, Tel: 210.322.9170 A Japanese favourite of expats & Athenians alike

GB Corner

Club

Eat

See

The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma Square recommends: New: Greek Festival 2012: Theatre: BERLINER ENSEMBLE, Robert Wilson / Claus Peymann Classic: Acropolis Alternative: Theocharakis Foundation or the Onassis Cultural Centre New: Funky Gourmet Restaurant, Michelin star restaurant, Paramithias 13 & Salaminos, Keramikos Classic: GB Corner, Greek Brasserie (www.gbcorner.gr) Undeniably the most famous “corner” of Athens,GB Corner is a favorite setting for the capital’s most stylish set.

Alternative: Spondi Restaurant, French Cuisine 2 Michelin stars, Pironos 5, Pagrati New: B.E.D. Balux Classic: Villa Mercedes Alternative: Gazarte

58 insider athens | May & June 2012

Central Athens

Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Boutique Filellinon 15, Tel: 210.323.1315 Popular Athenian night spot

Explorer’s Lounge NJV Athens Plaza, Syntagma Square, 210.335.2400, Magnificent cocktails and live jazz in an intimate atmosphere

Kalua Amerikis 6, Tel: 210.360.8304 Dance the night away in a chic environment

Tasaki Bar Miltiadou 19, Tel: 210 3310666

T Palace King George Palace Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.322.2210 Great for mingling & people-watching

CHILL

Hotel Grand Bretagne Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0750 Luxurious surroundings, Mediterranean cuisine

GB Spa

Indian Kitchen

Stadiou 4 & Voukourestiou Tel: 210.325.9400, Fully equipped health club with excellent array of classes

Apollonos 6, Tel: 210 3237720

Ioannis Royal Olympic Hotel Ath. Diakou 28-34, Tel: 210.928.8400 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views from the rooftop

Meatropoleos 3 Mitropoleos 3, Tel: 210 3241805 Modern greek grill restaurant

Multi 22 Ermou 116 & Leokoriou Tel: 210.331.6766 Italian fare served in a neoclassical house

Noodle Bar Apollonos 11, Tel: 210.331.8585 A congenial place to drop in for a quick noodle fix

Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0799 Award-winning spa featuring treatments by E’SPA, Valmont & Algoane

Holmes Place

The Palace Spa Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.374.3590 Ideal for rejuvenation after a long flight or a hectic bout of shopping

Syngrou

Zolotas pendant in gold with diamonds

Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

EAT Peacock Hotel Hera, Falirou 9, Tel: 210 923 6682 Traditional food with breathtaking Acropolis views

Kollias Syngrou Ave. 303 Tel: 210 940 8620 Excellent seafood in a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Plous Podilatou

Syngrou Ave. 156, Tel: 210 923 2918 Original seafood dishes, fresh ingredients and simple elegant interior

Ak. Koumoundourou 42 Tel: 210.413.7910 Sumptuous seafood & mouth-watering deserts on the waterfront

Kona Kai Athens Ledra Marriott, Syngrou Ave. 115, Tel: 210 930 0000 Polynesian, Teppanyaki and Sushi cuisine in an original luxury setting

Café Zoe

Tony Bonano Papanastasiou 63, Tel: 210.411.1901 Italian cuisine with a view of the harbour

Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93 Casual dining and terrific buffets for lunch and on Sundays Tel: 210 920 6655

Vassilenas

Première

Ak. Koumoundourou 48 Tel: 210.417.5152 Fresh seafood on the quay

EAT

Zorbas Ak. Koumoundourou 14 Tel: 210.411.1163 Unique flavours of the Mediterranean

Indian Masala (Indian) Ermou 129, Tel: 210 321 9412 Amazing Indian food at affordable price in a pleasant environment

Kirki Apostoplou Pavlou 31 Tel: 210.346.6960 Ideal for a lunch break

Kuzina Adrianou 9, Tel: 210.324.0133 Inspired traditional recipes in a cozy arty environment

SOUTHERN ATHENS

Piraeus

Zefyros

EAT Captain John's Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood

Dourambeis Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna

Jimmy and The Fish

Ak. Mikrolimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084.

Excellent seafood; try the astakomakaronada

Kollias Plastira 3, Tel: 210.462.9620 Excellent seafood but difficult to find; reserve on weekends

DRINK Iguana Ak. Dilaveri 15, Tel: 210.407.8861 Playing disco & techno tracks until 6am

Food & Wine

Big Apple South

All about Whisky

Posidonos 1, Tel: 210.948.5190 Casual cocktails in a modern atmosphere

Zinc “Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music

Zythos Eleftherias 45, Tel: 210.985.0478 Reminiscent of an Irish pub with several beers to choose from

Vas. Georgiou B' 10 Tel: 210.968.1191, Specialty shop with a large selection of single malts, books, & anything to do with whisky

Provence Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen

EAT Aioli Restaurant

SHOP

Artemidos 9, Tel: 210.894.0181 Mediterranean cuisine with an excellent “secret” seafood sauce

Books

Amigos

Eleftheroudakis Lazaraki 27, Tel: 210.325.8440 Book superstore with a large selection of English titles

Kyprou 65A, Tel: 210.898.3167 Mexican flavours in a friendly setting

Bayern Bierhaus Microbrewery Chr. Nezer 19, Tel: 210.894.4439 Authentic German cuisine

Beer Academy

Fashion

N. Zerva 14, Tel: 210.898.0121 International cuisine in a cozy setting

Enny di Monaco

Beirut

Laodikis 41, Tel: 210.894.0153 Carefully selected designs by various international designers

Saki Karayiorya 13, Tel: 210.894.3169 Lebanese cuisine & entertainment

Ensayar Donna

Bereket

Istioploikos Ak. Microlimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084 One of the hip places to see and be seen with a rooftop bar overlooking the yachting marina

Katafigio Ak. Koumoundourou 4 Tel: 210.413.1612 Club, cafe & beer house

Faliro

Thissio

Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel : 210 920 6981 Gourmet cuisine with splendid views

Etolikou 72 & Vitolion Tel: 210.461.2457 Friendly food and atmosphere

DRINK

Glyfada

AiNikolas

Southern & Northern Athens

EAT Il Tinello Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cooking

Iskandar

Amphitheas 6 & Poseidonos Tel: 210.988.6474 Authentic Indian cuisine

Kitchen Bar

Kyprou 55, Esperidon Square Tel: 210.894.3034 Top lines from leading designers with an English touch

Obervatory Attitudes A. Panagouli 17, Tel: 210.894.2113 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Comfort food overlooking the sea

Jewellery

Le Petit Sommelier

ZerTeo

Zaimi 6, Tel: 210.984.2344 French cuisine & excellent wine list

Metaxa 24-26, Tel: 210.894.6682 Unique jewellery designs

Mikras Asias & Lefkosias 36 Tel: 210.960.9337 Traditional dishes from Asia Minor

Cook Lobby

Ag. Ioannou 13, Glyfada.

Tel: 210 9680031-32 Traditional Greek cuisine in minimalist setting

Far East Lazaraki 61, Tel: 210.894.0500 A mix of Asian cuisines in elegant surroundings

insider athens | May & June 2012 59

Insider guide Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

Kiliza

Vincenzo

Konstantinopoleos 13 Tel: 210.894.4648 Delicious kebabs & decadent deserts

Giannitsopoulou 1, Tel: 210.894.1310 Value for money Italian specialities with a Southern Italian touch

Southern & Northern Athens

La Casa Di Giorgino Lefkosias 42A, Tel: 210.963.85770 Authentic Italian pizza made in a traditional wood-burning oven

DRINK

La pêche

Babae

Meat Square (Grill) Lambrakis 63 & Ag. Nikolaou, Tel: 210 961 1160 Juicy steaks in pleasant family environment

Molly Malone's Zannitsopoulou 8, Tel: 210.894.4247 Irish pub serving probably the best Irish Stew in Athens

Tartare Panagouli 52, Tel: 210.968.0320 Quality French cuisine

Posidonos 88, Tel: 210.894.1629 Beachfront dancing all night long

Balux Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.898.3577 Waterfront lounging

Capri Bay Grigoriou Lambraki 2 Tel: 210.894.9995, Excellent cocktails in a Moroccan style garden

Cafes Chocolat Zisimopoulou 9, Tel: 210.894.3442 Satisfies even the most discerning coffee connoisseur

Cosi

Il Segreto

Zisimopoulou 12, Tel: 210.894.5746 One of the first cafes to inspireGlyfada's coffee culture

Bizaniou 3, Tel: 210.965.9526 Authentic Italian set on a beautiful terrace

Nest Café Bar

CHILL

Lazaraki 45, Tel: 210.898.6035 An all-day hangout for locals & visitors

Seiza Lazaraki 45, Tel: 210.968.0545 Cafe with a unique style & hip design

STREET Bar Restaurant is the new all-day meeting point in Neo Psychico. Specialities served include authentic juicy burgers, big healthy salads, perfectly- grilled meat, and last but not least, truly tempting desserts. (Tel. 2106710688) Funky Gourmet: In the warm and living restaurant environment, the chefs offer their guests a carefully designed menu of a modern creative cuisine based on advanced culinary techniques and always featuring top quality seasonal ingredients. (Tel. 2105242727) Salon de Bricolage: The members-only club aims at the promotion of art, gastronomy, winery, and entertainment, as well as wellbeing and conjectural arts.

Visit the Acropolis museum with a private tour guide and enjoy lunch at Dionysos a landmark venue, globally well known as the restaurant under Acropolis. The unique view adds an exceptional value to Dionysos, combined to high quality service and cuisine. (Tel. 2109233182)

60 insider athens | May & June 2012

Posidonos 58A, Tel: 210.898.3577 A beach house turned lounge with all the amenities of a home.

Live Music Thalassa People's Stage Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.898.2979 Live Greek acts in a club atmosphere attracting a young crowd

Voula

To do Chill

Eat

The House Project

EAT Dream Grill V. Pavlou 78, Tel: 210.895.5110 Traditional recipes & authentic taste

Dvlcis in Fvndo Prinkipos Petrou 33, Tel: 210.894.2136 Top-quality authentic

Vari Sports Club Vari-Koropiou & Kalamatos 1 Tel: 210.899.0048 www.varisportsclub.com

Vouliagmeni

Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.894.1620 Creative seafood dishes combining Greek & French techniques

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

EAT Café Tabac

Margi Hotel, Litous 11, Tel: 210.967.0924 Delicious variations of Mediterranean food

Al Bacio

Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.0400 Trattoria serving traditional Italian dishes & pizza

Al Fresco The Westin, 40, Tel: 210.890.1709, Enjoy a romantic meal of creative Italian cuisine

Grill Room

Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.890.1794, Mediterranean & seafood flavours on a breathtaking veranda, in the Astir complex

Italian

Ithaki

Genovese

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.896.3747 Beautiful sea view, fresh seafood & great service

Vas. Pavlou 99, Tel: 210.895.8400 Italian eats al fresco

Naiades Vas. Pavlou 74, Tel: 210.965.7706 Popular family grill joint

Louizidis Ermou 2, Tel: 210.896.0591 Traditional Greek taverna popular with the locals

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Matsuhisa Athens Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.896.0510, Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa serves up sushi favourites with a Latin-American flair

Mezza Luna Orpheos 2, Tel: 210.967.1046 Chic Italian restaurant

Mythos of the Sea Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou Tel: 210.891.1100 Gourmet Mediterranean cuisine that blends local produce with fresh seafood

Oro Toro Varis-Koropiou 73, Tel: 210.899.4514 A taste of Argentinian cuisine in a cosy atmosphere

Psaraki Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Seafood served in an informal setting

Schara Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Grills with frills in a friendly setting at reasonable prices

Waffle House Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.1227 Sure to satisfy your sweet tooth

DRINK En Plo

NORTHERN ATHENS EAT Da Vinci Ag. Ioannou 23, Tel: 210 600 0102 Delightful dishes in fantastic ambience

Nanninela Peloponnissou 13 Tel: 210 600 5622 Authentic Italian cuisine in traditional decor

Olio by Portofino Ag. Ioannou 63, Tel: 210 639 1666, Mediterranean flavours in a chic interior

EAT Apsendi Kifissias 250-254 & Serres Tel: 210 671 7890 Refined cuisine and cocktails in stylish urban atmosphere

Bo Botrini’s Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Halandri, Tel: 210 6857323

L’Enoteca

Meat Square Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Tel: 210 683 1300, Juicy steaks in pleasant family environment

Novo Romantico di Antonio 25th Martiou 21, Tel: 210 689 6891 Authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist

Saipan K. Varnali 9, Tel: 210 685 0644 Exquisite dishes from China, Japan and Indonesia

1920 Ag. Paraskevi 110, Tel: 210 681 3029 Accent on meat in an elegant setting

Psaroma Sokratous 23, Tel: 210 683 9348 Imaginative parade of seafood and fresh fish

Kifissia

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.967.1184 Traditionally prepared seafood dishes presented exquisitely

Halandri Ag.Paraskevi

Maistrali

Southern & Northern Athens

SHOP Beauty & Cosmetics Nyhi-Nyhi Kifissias 230 Tel: 210.623.2824 Stop by for a quick mani-pedi

Fashion 21 Kifissia

Bakaliko Ola Ta Kala Kifissias 238-240, Mela Shopping Centre, Tel: 210.808.9908 Quality Greek delicacies

Sorpresa Italiana Kiriazi 6-8, Tel: 210.801.7886, Authentic fresh Italian pasta, sauces, truffles & more

Stefanidis Finest Foods Dimitrios Square 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen

Varsos Kassaveti 5, Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie

Vinifera Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.807.7709 Selection of wines from

EAT Acqua Azzurra Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals

Apla 135 Charilaou Trikoupi Tel: 210.620.3102 Chrysanthos Karamolegos creates refined Mediterranean dishes

Kifissias 265, Tel: 210.801.3594 Extreme sport paraphernelia

Barceloneta

Vassilis Zoulias

Berdema

Kifissias 267, Tel: 210.801.3448 Spanish cuisine in a fun atmosphere

Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay

Pendelis 133, Tel: 210 689 0238 Choice of 600 wines to accompany memorable meals

Island

Almyra

Food & Wine

Common Secret

Filikis Eterias 39, Tel: 210 6819109 Refined seafood and magical summer garden

Aristokratikon

Kifissias 324, Tel: 210.623.3810 Coffee and light Mediterranean meals in a pleasant setting

27th klm Athinon-Souniou Tel: 210.965.3809 Award-winning cuisine & an unmatched location with views of the Saronic Gulf

Sofa Bar The Westin Hotel Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.890.1709 Modern lounge bar serving up delectable cocktails

CHILL Arion Spa Astir Complex, Apollonos 40 Tel: 210.890.2000

Divani Apollon Palace & Spa Ag. Nikolaou 10, Tel: 210.891.1100

Argyropoulou 1-3, Tel: 210.801.7023 Unique designs reminiscent of times past

Argyropoulou 8, Tel: 210.801.6533 Decadent handmade chocolates

Vas Amalias 20, Tel: 210.801.3853 Traditional dishes from Greece & Asia Minor

Dali Kifissias 336, Tel: 210 685 4004 Multi-ethnic cuisine with original suggestions in arty set-up

Santa Fe Ag. Georgiou 30’B, Tel: 210 685 9690 Mexican food in traditional setting

Golden Phoenix Leof. Pendelis 85, Tel: 210 682 5017 Asian cuisine and sushi bar in luxury environment

Kitchen Bar K. Varnali 6, Tel: 210 689 2015 Delightful gastronomic tour in a relaxing atmosphere

Matsuhisa

insider athens | May & June 2012 61

Insider guide Shop, Eat, Drink & Chill!

Northern Athens

Dos Hermanos

O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas

Vardis

Aneton

Kyriazi 24, Tel: 210.808.7906 Excellent Mexican food & super margaritas

Drosini 12-14, Tel: 210.623.0080 A modern taverna serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices

Deligianni 66, Pentelikon Hotel Tel: 210.623.0650-6, Cornerstone of French cuisine in Greece

Stratigou Lekka 19, Tel: 210.806.6700 Traditional cuisine in a comfy-chic setting reminiscent of the 50s & 60s

DRINK

El Taco Bueno

Dragoumi & Andrianou 28 Tel: 210 623 3900, Gourmet cuisine with Mediterranean influences by chef Christos Markopoulos in a cool urban setting

Piazza Mela

Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.800.1402 Divine food from all over the world

Kolokotroni 37, Tel: 210.808.9160 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

Golden Phoenix

Royal Thai

Harilaou Trikoupi & Gortinias Tel: 210.801.3588, Chinese classic popular for the brunch buffet

Zirini 12, Tel: 210.623.2322 Thai cuisine in an opulent setting

Gourounakia Kifissias

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Authentic Italian food & fabulous deserts

Kifissias 289, Tel: 210.801.1093 Delicious salads, appetizers, souvlakia & grilled platters

Ichthyes

Kifissias 238, Mela Shopping Centre Tel: 210.623.6596, Classic & traditional Italian dishes

Prytaneion

Salumaio di Atene

Semiramis Restaurant

Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna

Semiramis Hotel, Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.628.4500 Mediterranean cuisine in a hip atmosphere

Kastelorizo

Shogun

Platanon 2, Tel: 210.807.5408 Part of a chain of upscale seafood restaurants that is sure to please

Meat Me

Philadelpheos 2, Tel: 210.623.3622 Promises authentic Japanese cuisine for the truly discerning

HarilaouTrikoupi 92 Tel: 210.623.2358 Simple yet discerning cuisine in a funky Greek taverna

Telemachos Barbeque Club

Nargile

Tike

Harilaou Trikoupi 50 Tel: 210.808.3333 Lebanese cuisine in a cosmopolitan ambiance

Harilaou Trikoupi 27, Tel: 210.808.4418 Watch chefs prepare Turkish kebabs and other treats before your eyes

Mauzac

62 insider athens | May & June 2012

Fragkopoulou 22, Tel: 210.807.6680 Rare meats char-grilled to perfection

Boudoir Deligianni 50 & Georganta Tel: 210.801.8384, Massive club for dancing & sipping on signature cocktails

Ethnikis Antistaseos & Psaron 1 Tel: 210.684.0460 Mexican flavours in a traditional setting

Jaipur Palace

Kifissias 239, Tel: 201.801.0810 Chic lounge serving classic concoctions

Ag. Konstantinou & Themidos Tel: 210.805.2762 Indian cuisine and fine wines

Menta CafĂŠ

Mauzac

Divine

Ag. Theodorou 10, Tel: 210.808.0193 Traditional home turned stylish cafe

Vinifera Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.807.7709 Selection of wines from all over the world

Maroussi

Essence

Alamanas 1, Tel: 210.619.9902 Clean lines and a beautiful garden make this cafĂŠ, bar, restaurant a must

Oinopathia

SHOP

Aghias Paraskevis 79 & Diogenous Tel: 210.685.5375, Great selection of wines with Greek and international cuisine

Golden Hall

Pausa

Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.680.3450 131 high-end (and highstreet) stores for anyone with a passion for fashion

Ag. Konstantinou 46 & Ifestou 3 Tel: 210.617.9290 Italian cuisine accompanied by a selection of Greek & Italian wines

The Mall Athens Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food

EAT Altamira Perikleous 28, Tel: 210 612 8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment

Wagamama Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.683.6844 Fresh, nutritious Asian fusion food in a sleek yet simple setting

Whispers of wine Ag. Konstantinou 48, Tel: 210.617.9051 Gourmet food with rich wine list and vintage decor

see & do Art galleries

A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psirri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, Agalma Troyman, 11635 Athens, Tel: 210 725 9549 Astrolavos Dexameni Xanthippou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4342 Astrolavos ArtLife Irodotou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.1200 Athens Art Gallery Glykonos 4, Dexameni Sq., 106 75 Athens, Tel: 210 721 3938 Badminton Theatre Olympiaka Akinita, Goudi 157 73, Athens, Tel: 211 101 0020 Bernier/Eliades Gallery Eptachalkou 11, Thisseio, Tel: 210.341.3935 Beyond Art Gallery Haritos 10, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.9744 B&M Theoharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, Athens Tel: 210.361.1206 (The) Breeder Gallery Iasonas 45, Metaxourgio, Tel: 210.331.7527 Ekfrasi Gallery Valaoritou 9a, 10671 Athens, Greece Tel: 210 360 7598 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Vas. Georgiou B 17 - 19 & Rigilis Str. Athens 10675, Tel: 210 9242 111-3 Fizz Gallery Valaoritou 9c, Athens 10671 Greece, Tel: 210 360 7598 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens 10671, Tel: 210 364 0215 Gallery 7 Zalokosta 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.2050 Gialino Music Theatre Sigrou 143, N. Smirni, Athens Tel: 210 9316 101-4 Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio, Tel: 210.346.1981 Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre 48 Armatolon-Klephton st.

11471 Athens, Tel: 210 643 9466 Jill Yakas Spartis 16, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.2773 www.yakas.com K-Art Gallery Sina 54, 106 72, Athens, Greece Tel: 211 401 3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kourd Gallery Kassiani 2-4, Tel: 210.642.6573 ww.gallerykourd.gr

Acropolis is open daily and entrance, includes archaeological sites. Tel: 201.321.0219 Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens - the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social life for centuries.

Athinais Cultural Centre formerly a silk factory, this space has been converted into a large cultural centre. Kastorias 34-36, Votanikos. Tel: 210.348.0000.

Byzantine Churches many churches dating from the 11th and 12th centuries are found around the city. Noteworthy examples include: Agios Eleftherios, next to the cathedral on Mitropoleos Street; Kapnikarea, halfway down Ermou Street from Syntagma; Agi Apostoli, Agora area south of Stoa of Attalos; and Agia Triada (Russian Orthodox church) on Filellinon Street. Churches are open to the public on Sundays and holidays, also usually for daily prayers 7am-1pm and 4-6:30pm. Dress soberly when visiting.

Technopolis (Gazi) a 19th century gas factory turned major cultural centre for performing arts and installation works.

Pireos 100 & Ermou, Gazi. Tel: 210.346.1589.

Hadrian’s Arch a Roman arch that marked the boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues.

Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos.

Tel: 210.321.0185.

Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens.

Tel: 210.923.1502 www.spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502 www.history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue Tel: 210.367.1000, www.benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos. Tel: 210.325.1311 www.benaki.gr

Benaki Museum, Pireos Pireos 138 & Andronikou Tel: 210.345.3111, www.benaki.gr Byzantine Museum Vas. Sofias 22, Tel: 210.721.1027.

Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. www.hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 www.frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Tel: 210.722.8321 www.cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio.

Tel: 210-346.1981. www.herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni.

Tel: 210.922.7260. www.lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka. Tel: 210.322.5582. www.jewishmuseum.gr Keramikos Museum Ermou 148, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.346.3552.

Maria Callas Museum Technopolis, Pireos 100, Gazi, Tel: 210.346.1589 National Archaeological Museum Patission 44, Athens, Tel: 210.821.7724 National Gallery and Alexandros Soutsos Museum Vas. Konstantinou 50.

Tel: 210.723.5857, 210.723.5937 Numismatic Museum Panepistimiou 12, Athens.

Tel: 210.363.5953. www.nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street Tel: 210.924.1043, www.theacropolismuseum.gr

Just for kids

Tel: 210.322.9705

Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali.

Tel: 210.728.2333 Odeon of Herod Atticus built in 161 AD, this is where the Athens Festival takes place. Accessible for €1.50 and open daily from 8:30am.

Panathenian Stadium “Kalimarmaro”was the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Located at Vassileos Konstantinou and Agras, across from the National Garden.

Pnyx Hill here, for the first time in history, every citizen could vote, giving Pnyx the name the “birthplace of democracy”.

Close by is the beautiful Old Observatory.

Presidential Palace formerly the Royal Palace, this building is used by the President of Greece to host dignitaries.

Irodou Attikou Street.

Stoa of Attalos shopping arcade built in the 2nd century BC and totally reconstructed in the 1950s. Tues-Sun 8:30am3pm. Admission to the Agora and museum €3.50. Adrianou 24. Tel: 210.321.0185 Syntagma (Constitution Square) is the heart of the city and the best spot for new visitors to orient themselves. The Evzones, dressed in traditional uniforms, guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament. The changingof-the-guard ceremony takes place every hour.

Temple of Olympian Zeus once the largest temple in ancient Greece, its ruins lie just behind Hadrian's Arch. Mon-Sun 8am-7:30pm. €2.00. Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues, Tel: 210.922.6330.

Theatre of Dionysus built in the 5th century BC is where the plays of Aristophanes, Euripides, Aeschylus and Sophocles were first performed.

Tower of Winds the octagonal tower, representing the eight directions of the wind, was built in the 1st century BC by the Syrian astronomer Andronicus. Mon-Sun 8am-7pm. Just east of the Ancient Agora.

Tel: 210.324.5220.

Museums

ASSOCIATION OF GUIDES

Pallas Theatre Skoufa 77 & Staikou 2, Kolonaki Athens, Tel: 210 364 0783 Skoufa Gallery Skoufa 4, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.3541 Stavros Mihaliaras Art 260 Kifissias & Diligianni, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.0928 Thanassis Frisssiras Gallery Kriezotou 7, Tel: 210. 364.0288 The Art Foundation (TAF) Normanou 5, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.323.8757 The Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens 104 31, Tel: 210 322 1335 The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, 115 28 Athens, Tel: 210-7235857 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644 Tsatsis Project/ Artforum 12 Mitropoleos st. & Venizelou PC 54624 Thessaloniki, Tel: 231 025 7552 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, 105 52 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210 331 9333 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278 Zoumboulakis Gallery Graphics & Editions Kriezotou 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454

Attractions & Sites

ORGANISED TOURS

Allou Fun Park Kifissou & Petrou Ralli, Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Tel: 210.425.6999, www.allou.gr Children’s Museum Kydathinaeon 14, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2995.

Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.801.5870, www.gnhm.gr Greek Folk Art Museum Daily Karaghiozis puppet shows!

Kydathinaeon 17, Plaka, Tel: 210.322.9031 Museum of Children’s Art Kodrou 9, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.22621 www.childrensartmuseum.gr

Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, www.summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 http://www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/

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partner hotels ARION RESORT & SPA

ATHENS LEDRA MARRIOTT HOTEL

DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS

METROPOLITAN

The legendary beauty resort is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf, elegant and sophisticated décor in all 123 rooms and suites, private swimming pools and beaches, spa and gourmet restaurants.

Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000

314 deluxe guest rooms, 18 suites. Rooftop swimming pool and bar, health club, Kona Kai Polynesian - Tepanyiaki Restaurant and sports bar. Syngrou 115. Tel: 210.930.0000

Located at the base of the Acropolis and close to Plaka. Pool with bar, roof garden restaurant with Acropolis view. Parthenonos 19-25.

Makrigianni. Tel: 210.928.0100

Beautifully renovated property with views of the sea and the Acropolis. Ten minutes from central Athens, the port of Piraeus and main exhibition centers. Syngrou 385. Tel: 210.947.1000

NEW

GRANDE BRETAGNE

NJV athens plaza

This city landmark is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. All 265 rooms and 56 suites are decorated with original artwork and antiques.

Reception areas, ballrooms, roof garden with Acropolis view. Luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools. Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.333.0000

Boutique-style hotel with 182 rooms including 23 suites with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, ideally located in the heart of the business and shopping district within walking distance of Plaka. 2, Vas.Georgiou A’ St, Athens Tel: 210 3352400

Holiday Inn Attica Avenue

NOVOTEL

New five-star property on Attica Avenue linking Athens with the international airport.

State-of-the art conference facilities, restaurant, two bars, pool and fitness center. 40.2 km Attica Road, between exits 17 & 18. Tel: 210.668.9000, www.hiathens.com

The newly renovated Novotel is designed for natural living. Close to Omonoia square and the National Museum. Open plan bar and rooftop bar and restaurant and pool.4-6 Mikhail Voda Street Tel: 210.820.0700, www..novotel.com

ATHENAEUM INTERCONTINENTAL ATHENS

543 rooms with renovated Deluxe rooms and suites. Dedicated business centre facilities and 3.500 m2 of extensive & flexible meeting space.

New I-Spa and renovated gym. Award winning restaurants. Syngrou 89-93. Tel: 210.920.6000

Designed by the Campana brothers, NEW, the latest venture of YES! Hotels has 79 luxury rooms, including 18 Studios and 6 Junior Suites. NEW Taste, is the Hotel’s innovative restaurant concept. Filellinon 16, Syntagma.

Tel: 210.3273000 Crowne plaza

ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE HOTEL

66 state-of the-art rooms, 15 executive rooms and 3 suites. The acclaimed Etrusco Restaurant serves top quality Mediterranean cuisine.

Kallirois 32 & Petmeza. Tel: 210.921.5353 ATHENS ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL

Located in historic Plaka beneath the Acropolis.

Facilities include bar, restaurant, spa area with indoor swimming pool, business centre, garden and underground parking. N. Nikodimou 18-20, Plaka. Tel: 210.337.0000 ATHENS HILTON

Newly renovated, the former Holiday Inn Athens is at a very convenient location and attracts both business and leisure travellers.

Amenities include restaurant, bar, rooftop swimming pool, conference and business facilities, garage parking. Michalakopoulou 50.

Tel: 210.727.8000, www.cpathens.com DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA

Located seaside with a magnificent view of the Saronic Gulf. All rooms with balconies and sea views. Indoor and outdoor pools, boutiques, beauty parlor, business centre and spa.

Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Kavouri-Vouliagmeni.

Tel: 210.891.1100

Holiday Suites

Elegant, all-suite hotel offering high standard accommodation. Each suite provides guests with a separate living room and kitchenette. Arnis 4.Tel: 210.727.8000, www.holiday-suites.com

Near the Acropolis Museum. 265 rooms and 45 unique Panorama Suites, overlooking the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis. Pool, business center, convention and banquet facilities.

Roof Garden Restaurant/Bar “Ioannis”. 28-34, Ath. Diakou Str., 11743 Athens, Greece. Tel. 210 9288400, www.royalolympic.com

KEFALARI SUITES

SEMIRAMIS

Turn-of-the-century hotel in Kifissia, part of YES! Hotels.Themed suites with modern facilities. Pentelis 1, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3333

YES! Hotel designed by Karim Rashid. 51 luxury rooms, 4 suites and 6 poolside bungalows.

Ultra-trendy bar-restaurant. Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Kefalari-Kifissia. Tel: 210.628.4400

DIVANI CARAVEL

508 renovated rooms, two pools, banquet rooms restaurants, convention facilities, business centre & spa. The rooftop Galaxy bar has gorgeous city views. Vas. Sofias 46. Tel: 210.728.1000

64 insider athens | May & June 2012

situated close to major tourist attractions with, rooftop restaurant and swimming pool.

Vas. Alexandrou 2, Tel: 210.720.7000

Royal Olympic

partner hotels SOFITEL ATHENS AIRPORT

TwentyOne

Herodion

COSTA NAVARINO The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

Airport hotel. Executive floor, business center and conference facilities. Two bars and two restaurants. Health club and covered swimming pool. Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata. Tel: 210.354.4000 ST. GEORGE LYCABETTUS HOTEL

A member of YES! Hotels. Modern design and simple architectural charm. 16 ergonomically designed rooms and 5 loft suites. “21” Bar Restaurant for indoor and outdoor dining.

Kolokotroni 21, Kefalari-Kifissia Tel: 210.623.3521. www.twentyone.gr

A CATEGORY

Located at the base of the Acropolis and a five minute walk to Plaka. 90 guest rooms, meeting facilities and a lovely atrium barcoffee shop. Rovertou Galli 4, Makrigianni.

Tel: 210.923.6832 HOTEL ELECTRA

AVA HOTEL & SUITES

Located in the upper part of Kolonaki, not far from the Lycabettus (Lykavittos) funicular railway. Excellent restaurant, Le Grand Balcon. Rooftop swimming pool. Kleomenous 2, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.729.0711 THEOXENIA PALACE HOTEL

Luxurious apartments and suites in Plaka.

Magnificent views of the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch and Zeus Temple. Short walk to Syntagma and Monastiraki. Lysikratous street 9-11, Plaka.

Tel: 210.325.9000, www.avahotel.gr

Within walking distance from all major archaeological sites, business and commercial districts. Includes bar, restaurant, lobby and meeting areas. Ermou 5, Syntagma. Tel: 210.337.8000

Inspired by old Messinian mansions, the Westin resort’s low-rise villa clusters use natural stone and local design elements to create a motif in perfect harmony with the virgin sandy beach and pristine hillside landscape. Its 445 deluxe rooms and suites, 123 with private infinity pools, offer access to an extensive common pool areas, and reflect Westin’s soothing aesthetic The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort

PERISCOPE HOTEL

CORAL HOTEL

In an elegant neoclassical building in Kefalari, this hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna and outdoor pool. Business centre, internet and conference facilities. Filadelfeos 2, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3622-6 THE MARGI

The Coral’s 86 rooms and 2 suites offer all modern conveniences. Poseidonos Avenue 35, Paleo Faliron. Tel: 210.981.6441 Fresh Hotel

Boutique hotel with 90 spacious rooms and suites and great views to the sea and pine forests.

Café Tabac Restaurant offers a unique dining experience while Malabar and J-lounge are perfect for a glass of champagne. Close to the lake, beach and tennis courts. Litous 11, Vouliagmeni.

Tel: 210.892.9000. www.themargi.gr THE WESTIN ATHENS

Situated in the heart of old Athens within walking distance of the Plaka, Psirri and Monastiraki.

Enjoy the hip Orange Bar, rooftop restaurant and pool. Sophocleous 26 & Klisthenous.

Tel: 210.524.8511-6.

Designed for people who wish to be part of all that goes on in the city. 17 rooms, 4 junior suites and a super-lux penthouse suite.

Part of YES! Hotels. Haritos 22, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.729.7200, www.periscope.gr

The Romanos Resort boasts of 289 exquisitely appointed rooms and 32 suites with individual infinity pools. Traditional Greek design with contemporary touches sets the tone in each space, where the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean is the preferred hue.

Santorini MYSTIQUE SANTORINI

Philippos

Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are wellappointed and comfortable. Offers good value for money in the Acropolis area. Mitseon 3, Makrigianni. Tel: 210.922.3611-4

Mystique is an 18 villa hotel, designed by Frank Le Fevbre. Mystique, Oia. Tel. 22860 71114 VEDEMA, SANTORINI

amarilia hotel

@ Part of the Astir Palace Complex with 162 guest rooms and suites and views of the Saronic Gulf. Sea view lounges, trendy bars, fusion and Mediterranean cuisine restaurants and private gazebos by an Olympic-sized pool. Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000

Amarilia Hotel in Vouliagmeni is an excellent choice for business and leisure travellers. 100 renovated rooms and suites with great sea views, meeting and banqueting facilities, outdoor swimming pool. Ag. Nikolaou 13 Vouliagmeni. Tel. 210 8990391, www.amarilia.gr

Would you like TO see your hotel LISTED here?

CONTACT US at: info@insider-magazine.gr

Vedema has 45 rooms converted from a 100 year old neo-classical captain’s house and a private swiming pool for all the suites. Vedema, Megalohori. Tel. 22860 81 796

insider athens | May & June 2012 65

AUDIOVISUAL OTE video conference service 7.30am-10pm.

Patission 85. Tel: 210.883.8578, 210.822.0399 TCS M. Antipa 20 & 2 Prometheus, Tel: 210.976.7086

COMPUTER & CELL-PHONE RENTAL TrimTel Mobile Communications Michalakopoulou 41, Tel: 210.729.1964

Commercial Office spaces Regus Tel: 210 727 9000 Global Business Services Tel: 210-8764 876 Kifissias Ave. 90, Maroussi

COURIER SERVICES ACS Tel: 210.819.0000 DHL Tel: 210.989.0000 Express City Tel: 210.821.9959 Geniki Taxydromiki Tel: 210.485.1100 Interattika Tel: 210.540.5400 Speedex Tel: 801.11.000.11 UPS Tel: 210.998.4000

Driving Schools in English Denis Kasimatis - Driving School Zografou, Papagou, Ilissia, Psychiko, Cholargos and Goudi - Tel: 210 778 3157 210 779 6981 Trochokinisi Driving School 28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Athens Tel: 231 072 9092 Driving School Highway Amfitheas and Ag. Triados 30, 175 64 Paleo Faliro - Tel: 210 988 8098 / 6997 722 777 Vlachos Bros 25th Martiou 11, Peristeri; Xenofodos 17, Peristeri; Afroditis 39, Ilion Tel: 210 574 4895 / 210 576 9190

Relocation Agencies Allied Pickfords Tel: 210 610 4494 Mourouzi 7, Athens Athens Relocation Centre Tel: 210 96 50 697, Zakynthou 10, Attica Movers Tel: 210 922 7221 19, Syngrou Ave Celebrity International Movers 102, Kapodistriou Ave, Tel: 210 272 0106 Corporate Relocations Athens Tel: 210 800 3510, Ag. Saranta 32 Nea Erithrea Orphee Beinoglou Tel: 210 9466100 27th km Old National Road Athens-Korinth Location Elefsinia, GR-19200 Elefsina Omega Transport Thesi Kyrilos, 19300 Aspropyrgos Tel: 210 947 5500 Octopus Relocation Services Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210 4599530

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE 73m2 apartment near Acropolis Museum with on-site parking space, on 3rd floor, bright, facing street, built in 2007. It comprises one large open-plan living area, separate fitted kitchen, WC, storage room, and 13m2 covered veranda. Equipped with parquet wood floor, independent natural gas heating, Guzzini lighting system, Daikin a/c units, Buchtal ceramic tiles, double glazing, security door. It is located only 220m from metro station, 80m from tram & bus stops.

Contact tel. 697 6558 536.

For Rent in Glyfada Top floor apartment, 3 bedrooms, fully furnished.

Sunny and airy, central heat and A/C units all rooms. Convenient location, very comfortable.

For more info CALL 2291024129.

For Rent/ SALE in Hydra Fully furnished, recently renovated, three bedroom, three bathroom villa with living room, open kitchen, courtyard, and terraces with breathtaking views of the island and the Peloponnese.

For more information, contact info@insider-magazine.gr

66 insider athens | May & June 2012

TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING Executive services, translation & interpreting All EU and Balkan languages - legal, technical and medical documents. Athens Tower B. Tel:Â 210.778.3698 www.executiveservices.gr Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi. Tel: 210.876.4876 IBS - International Business Services Michalakopoulou 29, Tel: 210.724.5541

Travel Agencies Travel Plan Tel: 210 333 3300 www.travelplan.gr Amphitrion Tel: 210 900 6000 Meg Alexandrou 7 & Karaiskaki, www.amphitrionholidays.gr TravelPlanet24 Tel: 211 107 9684 241, Syngrou Ave. & 2, Alikarnassou 171 22 Nea Smyrni, Athens www.travelplanet24.com Mid-east Travel Tel: 211 211 8888 Vas Sofias 105-107 / www.mideast.gr

Embassies Cultural Institutes

Business services

useful information

French Institute Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210 339 8600 Hellenic American Union Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210 368 0900 British Council 17 Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210 369 2333 Instituto Cervantes Mitropoleos 23, 105 57 Athens Tel: 210 3634117 Goethe Institut Omirou 14-16, 100 33 Athens Tel: 210 3661000 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou Ave. 107-109, 117 45 Athens, Tel: 213 017 8000 Instituto Italiano di Cultura Patission [28 Oktovriou] 47 Tel: 210 369 2333, 210 524 2646

ALBANIA Vekiareli 7, Filothei, Tel: 210.687.6200 ALGERIA Vas. Constantinou 14 Tel: 210.756.4191-2 ARGENTINA Vas. Sophias 59. Tel: 210.724.4158 ARMENIA K. Palaiologou 95, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145 AUSTRALIA Kifisias & Alexandras, Tel: 210.870.4000 AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Avenue 4, Tel: 210.725.7270 AZERBAiJAN Skoufa 10.

Tel: 210.363.2721 BELGIUM Sekeri 3, Tel: 210.360.0314

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA Hatzikosta 3. Tel: 210.641.0788 BRAZIL Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14.

Tel: 210.721.3039 BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.8105 CANADA Ioanni Gennadiou 4.

Tel: 210.727.3400 CHILE Kifisias 317A Tel: 210.807.1020 CHINA Krinon 2A, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.677.1212 CROATIA Tzavella 4, N. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.677.7033 CUBA Sofokleous 5, Filothei.

Tel: 210.685.5550 CYPRUS Xenofontos 2A. Tel: 210.373.4800 CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.671.9701 DENMARK Mourouzi 10.

Tel: 210.725.6440 EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3. Tel: 210.361.8612 ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4.

Tel: 210.747.5660 FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5.

Tel: 210.725.5860 FRANCE Vas. Sofias 7. Tel: 210.339.1000 FYROM Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.9585 GEORGIA Ag. Dimitriou 24, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.2186 GERMANY Karaoli & Dimitriou 3.

Tel: 210.728.5111 HUNGARY Karneadou 25.

Tel: 210.725.6800 INDIA Kleanthous 3. Tel: 210.721.6481 INDONESIA Marathonodromon 99, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.2345 IRAN Stratigou Kallari 16.

Tel: 210.674.1436 IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7.

Tel: 210.723.2405 ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.670.5500 ITALY Sekeri 2. Tel: 210.361.7260 JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri.

Tel: 210.670.9900 JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.4161 Kazakhstan Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765 KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens.

Tel: 210.698.4080 KUWAIT Perikleous 2, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.3593 LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.675.5873 LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.2120 LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49.

Tel: 210.729.4356 LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38.

Tel. 210.729.4483 LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofitou Vamva 2.Tel: 210.725.6400 MALTA V. Sofias 96.Tel: 210.778.5138

useful information

Ambulance Tel: 166 Doctors SOS Tel: 1016.

They will issue an invoice to claim reimbursement from your insurer.

Duty Pharmacies Call 1434, Also check newspapers for listings.

Emergency Hospitals Tel: 1434 Fire Brigade Tel: 199 Forest Fire Tel: 191 Poison Hotline Tel: 210.779.3777 Police Tel: 100 Tourist Police Tel: 171 Coastguard Tel:108 Air Police Tel: 210.964.2000

ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA Tel: 10400 Emergency Service Tel: 104 Express Service Tel: 154 Hellas Service Tel: 1057 Interamerican Tel: 168 Tourist Information Tel: 174

Paediatric Hospitals

EUROCLINIC PAEDON Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900 PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000 PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535

Private Hospitals Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building Ethnikis Antistaseos 66, Halandri.

Tel: 210.677.3573 www.symmetria.gr CENTRAL CLINIC OF ATHENS Asklipiou St. 31. Emergency number 1169 or Tel: 210.367.4000 www.centralclinic.gr

public Hospitals ASKLEPIEION HOSPITAL Vas. Pavlou 1, Voula. Tel: 210.895.8301-4 EVANGELISMOS Ypsilantou 45-47, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.720.1000 KAT HOSPITAL specialized trauma unit. Nikis 2, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.628.0000 TZANNEIO Afentouli & Tzani, Pireaus.

Tel: 210.451.9411-9

PHYSICIANS (ENGLISH SPEAKING) Ioannis Bitzos, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62 Kifissia. Tel: 210.808.0682 A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD Eye Surgeon, Mesogeion 2, Athens Tower B’ Tel: 210.747.2777 Dimitris Linos, MD FACS General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.612.5001-2 heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens. Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou Tel:210.897.6276. www.heartline.gr

DR. KOVEOS D.M.D. DENTAL OFFICE

Cosmetic, Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry 20-22 Ipsilantou str., Kolonaki 106 76 Athens-Greece Tel: 210 7242211 Fax: 210 7242212 E-mail: info@drkoveos.com Website: www.drkoveos.com

English media

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

EUROCLINIC diagnostic, surgical and treatment centre.

Athanasiadou 9. (near Mavili Sq.).

Tel: 210.641.6600 EURODENTICA Specialized dental care Patision 150, Tel: 210. 866.3367-8 Alamanas 3, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.5760-1 El. Venizelou 162, Kallithea.

Tel: 210.956.5365 HYGEIA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 4, Maroussi. Tel: 210.686.7000 www.ygeia.gr IATRIKO KENTRO (ATHENS MEDICAL CENTER) Areos 36, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.989.2100-20. Distomou 5-7, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.8100 METROPOLITAN HOSPITAL Ethnarou Makariou 9 & El. Venizelou, N. Faliro. Tel: 210.480.9000 www.metropolitan-hospital.gr IASO Kifissias 37-39, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.618.4000 MITERA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 6, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.686.9000

Newspapers The International Herald Tribune carries the English version of Kathimerini The local Athens News comes out Fridays.

Radio Antenna 97.2 FM news at 8.25am.

Flash Radio 96.0 FM 8.55am, 3pm and 8pm daily.

ERA public radio 91.6 FM for bulletins at 5am and 9am, full news coverage at 9.30pm.

Schools

Greek Language

Emergencies

VATICAN Mavili 2, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.3598 VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.9169 VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychiko. Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.

Health

MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14.

Tel: 210.729.4780 MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei.

Tel: 210.699.0660 MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.4210 NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7.

Tel: 210.725.4900 NIGERIA Dolianis 65, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Vas. Sofias 23.

Tel: 210.724.6173 PAKISTAN Loukianou 6.

Tel: 210.729.0122 PALESTINE Giassemion 13, P. Psychiko. Tel.: 210.672.6061-3 PANAMA Praxitelous 192 & II Merarchias, Piraeus. Tel: 210.428.6441 PERU Semitelou 2. Tel: 210.779.2761 PHILIPPINES Antheon 26, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.672.1837 POLAND Chrysanthemon 22, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.679.7700 PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias 23.

Tel: 210.729.0096 / 210.723.6784 QATAR Rigillis 16A Tel: 210.725.5031 ROMANIA Emm. Benaki 7, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.8875 RUSSIA Nikiforos Lytra 28, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.5235 SAUDIA ARABIA Palaiologhou 2 & Agias Annis Tel: 210.671.6911 SERBIA Vas. Sophias 106, Tel: 210.777.4344 SINGAPORE Aigialias 17, Paradissos Amaroussiou. Tel: 210.684.5072 SLOVAK REPUBLIC G. Seferi 4, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.677.1980 SLOVENIA Mavili 10, Tel: 210.672.0090-091 SOUTH AFRICA Kifissias 60, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.610.6645 SPAIN Dionysiou Areopagitou 21, Tel: 210.921.3123 SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou 7, Tel: 210.726.6100 SWITZERLAND Iasiou 2, Tel: 210.723.0364-6 TAIWAN Marathonodromon 57, Tel: 210.677.5122 Representative office THAILAND Marathorodromon 25 & Kyprou, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.9065 TUNISIA Antheon 2, P. Psychiko, Tel: 210.671.7590 TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Tel: 210.726.3000 UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel: 210.680.0230 UNITED KINGDOM Ploutarchou 1.

Tel: 210.727.2600 UNITED STATES Vas. Sofias 91.

Tel: 210.721.2951 URUGUAY Menandrou 1, Kifissia Tel: 210.361.3549

The Athens Center 48 Archimidous Street, Mets, Athens 11636, Greece 210 7015-242 CELT Athens 77 Academias Street, 106 78 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210 3301455 Greek House Dragoumi 7, 145 61 Kifissia, Tel: 210 808 5186 Hellenic American Union 22 Massalias str., 106 80 Athens, Tel: 210368.0900 Omilo Greek Language And Culture Panagi Tsaldari 13 (4th floor), 15122 Maroussi, Tel: 210 6122706

insider athens | May & June 2012 67

Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED) www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000 Public Services Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr

Road Assistance ELPA: 104 Public Power Corporation (DEI) In case of power failure: Tel: 210, 523 9939 www.dei.gr

Weather Attica, Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr

Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP) In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr

Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman: 5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640

Universities University of Indianapolis Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210 323 6647 DEREE Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210 600 9800

ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210 896 4531 American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210 725 9301 Business College of Athens Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210 808 8008

International Kindergartens

International Schools

St Catherine's British Embassy School Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210 282 9750 St. Lawrence College Anemon St, Koropi Tel: 210 891 7000 American Community Schools of Athens Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210 639 3200 Campion School Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini Tel: 210 607 1700 Byron College Filolaou 7, Gerakas Tel: 210 604 7722 International School of Athens Xenias and Artemidos, Kifissia, Tel: 210 623 3888 Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix Chlois & Trikalon, Ag. Paraskevi Tel: 211 300 9121 Scuola Statale Italiana Odos Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia Tel: 210 228 2720 German School in Athens Homatianou & Ziridi, Maroussi Tel: 210 619 9261 Greek German School 25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210 682 0566

68 insider athens | May & June 2012

English kindergartens The Cottage Kindergarten Psaron 74, Halandri Tel: 210 682 7629 Early Learning Rizountos 53, Elliniko Tel: 210 961 8763 Hopscotch International Kindergarten Ag. Triandos 93, Vari Tel: 210 965 3985 Kifissia Montessori School Ellinikon Stratou 5, Kifissia Tel: 210 620 7481 Melina’s Kindergarten Harilaou Trikoupi 16, Kifissia Tel: 210 801 2719 Peek-a-boo PreSchool Vougliameni Tel: 210 967 1970 Peter Pan Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210 895 9654 Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210 965 6800

Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207 Les Alouettes Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 L’Air des Contes 11, Cycladon, Glyka Nera, Tel : 210 600 3196 Le Castelet 18 Gortinias, Kifissia, Tel: 210 808 7760 Mary Poppins 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210 677 3803 Play and Learn Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210 801 1428

German kindergartens O mikros Antonis Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210 603 2527

Italian kindergartens Scuola maternal italiana de Atene Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210 202 0274 Il Mulino magico Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210 600 3148 British Council Library Kolonaki Sq. 17 Tel: 210 363 3211/5 American Library Masalias 22 (4th floor) Tel: 210 363 8114 American School of Classical Studies Blegen Souedias 54, Tel: 210 723 6313 Athens College Library Stephanou Delta, P. Psychiko Tel: 210 671 4628 Hellenic American Union Greek Library 22 Masalias St (7th floor), Tel: 210 362 9886 French Institute Library 31 Sina St, Tel: 210 362 4301 German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Tel: 210 362 0270 Goethe Institute Library Omirou 14-16, Tel: 210 360 8111 Italian Institut Library Patision 47, Tel: 210 522 9294 EU Library Vas. Sophias 2, Tel: 210 724 3982 National Library Tzavella 25, Tel: 210 382 0657 Benakeios Library Anthimou Gazi 2, Tel: 210 322 71

Libraires

Social Security & Health insurance (IKA) www.ika.gr

Money

French kindergartens Telephone & Internet Services (OTE) New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr

LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Post Phone

useful information

Post offices operate weekdays 8am-2pm. The main post offices in Athens are located at SYNTAGMA SQUARE and OMONIA SQUARE at Aeolou 100 and open weekdays 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-2pm, and Sun 9am-1:30pm.

AMERICAN EXPRESS Tel: 210.326.2626 DINERS CLUB Tel: 210.929.0200 EUROCARD Tel: 210.950.3673 MASTERCARD Tel: 00800.1188.70303, VISA Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04

Country Code: 30 City Code: 210 international calls first dial 00, then the country code.

To call from a Public payphone buy a phone card at the kiosks

Incoming

by Travel Plan Quality that meets your expectations!

www.travelplan.gr incoming@travelplan.gr

!

advertise in our listings, and reach thousands of customers

email us at ads@insider-magazine.gr

getting around

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata.

Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr.

24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE

Car rental

WSW Skycap Services at Athens Airport provides Meet & Greet, Baggage Hauling and Transport Service.

Tel: 210.353.0100 www.skycap.gr For info about the public bus lines please check our section Getting Around Ada Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.322.0087 Arena Tel: 210.894.6883, 210.614.7400 Auto Union Tel: 210.922.1211/1213 Avis Tel: 210.322.4951 Budget Tel: 210.921.4771-3 Europcar Tel: 210.924.8810-8 Hertz Tel: 210.998.2000 Michael Stamou Luxury Rentals Tel: 210.922.2442/43 Sixt Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.570.6895, 210.922.0171

LIMOUSINES

Public transport

AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221 Astra Limousine Service Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996 Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services Tel: 210.322.5090 Limousines Kakaya Tel: 210.323.4120 Combined tickets for metro, buses and trolleys (€1) are available from metro stations and central ticket booths, valid within 90 mins of validation for all public transport - except the airport service, which costs 6€.

EXPRESS BUS from/ to airport To and from Syntagma Square (bus X95, 70 min. approx.), Ethniki Amyna metro station (bus X94, 50 min. approx.) and Piraeus (bus X96, 90 min. approx.). Tickets available at the Arrivals Hall; validate on board. Buses leave every 10-15 minutes. Fare is €3.20 and the ticket is valid for 24 hours on buses, trolleys and metro. For further information dial 185 or visit www.oasa.gr, www. ametro.gr. For info on trains see www.proastiakos.gr

HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002 www.ose.gr

ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Agios Antonios-Agios Dimitrios) 5.30am-midnight, Line 3 (EgaleoDoukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Egaleo-Airport) 5.30am-22.52pm and 06.30am-23.30pm.

The last itinerary is 2 hours later on Friday and Saturday night than it is during the week. www.ametro.gr

tram Tram itineraries are only from Syntagma to S.E.F (in Neo Faliro) and from Syntagma to Asklipio Voulas. From Monday to Thursday, trams operate from 5.am until midnight and non-stop from Friday morning to Sunday midnight. www.tramsa.gr

TAXIS from the airport cost about €20 to Syntagma Square, €25 to Piraeus, depending on traffic. Between midnight and 5am double tariff applies.

Note: If you suspect that you have been overcharged, you can call the tourist police 0n 171

INTERCITY BUSES Terminal 1: Buses for Igoumenitsa, Ioannina, Kavala, Loutraki, Patra, the Peloponese, and Thessaloniki. Kifissou 100Tel: 210.512.4910-1, www.ktel.org Terminal 2: Buses for Delphi, Evia, Galaxidi, Karpenisi, Katerini, Lamia, Livadia, Thiva and Volos. Liosion 260.

RADIO TAXI Enotita Tel: 210.645.9000 Ermis Tel: 210.411.5200 Ikarus Tel: 210.515.2800 Kifissia Tel: 210.801.4000 Piraeus Tel: 210.418.2333 Radio Taxi Glyfada Tel: 210.960.5600 There is a booking fee of e1 added to the meter

Sea ports Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888

Sea ports & Ferries

Airport

Airlines

Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM Tel: 210.998.0222 Air Malta Tel: 210.965.2300-22 Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American Tel: 210.361.3373 Air Taxis (Helicopter and plane charters) Tel: 210.938.4149 British Airways Tel: 801.11.56000 BMI Tel: 210.960.0942 Continental Tel: 210.353.4312 Cyprus Airways Tel: 210.353.4100 Delta Tel: 210.331.1673-6 Easy Jet Tel: 210.353.0300 El Al Tel: 210.934.1500-1 Emirates Tel: 210.933.3400 Etihad Tel: 210.960.56.08 Gulf Air Tel: 210.322.0851 Iberia Tel: 210.353.6004 Lufthansa Tel: 210.617.5200 Olympic Airways Tel: 210.966.6666 Qatar Airways Tel: 210.950.8700 Swiss / Crossair Tel: 210.617.5320 Tunisair Tel: 210 3220104-5 Turkish Tel: 210.353.7280-2

Ferries Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000 From the Port of Piraeus Northern and Eastern Aegean Islands: Gates A & B Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Samos, Dodecanese Islands: Gate E Kalymnos, Kos Leros, Patmos, Rhodes, Saronic Gulf Islands:

Hellenic Seaways 210 41 99 000 www.hellenicseaways.gr, Anek Lines www.anek.gr Domestic lines: 210 41 97 420 International lines: 210 41 97 430 Minoan Lines www.minoan.gr Tel:801 11 75 000

YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100 Ghiolman Yachts Filellinon 7, Syntagma. Tel: 210.323.0330 Nava Yachts Loudovikou Sq. 6, Piraeus.

Tel: 210.417.7728 Northstar Poseidonos 54, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.988.4000 PGA Alimou & Poseidonos, Alimos.

Tel: 210.985.9400 Seahorse Alkyonidon 83 (Marina), Voula.

Tel: 210.895.2212, 210.895.6733 Seascape Poseidonos Ave. 29, Alimos.

Tel/Fax: 210.985.8301 Valef Yachts Pl. Chatzikonstanti 2, Piraeus. Tel:210.451.2010 Vernicos Yachts Posidonos 11, Kalamaki.

Tel: 210.985.0122-8

Gates G & E

Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Crete: Gate A Aghios Nikolaos, Chania, Iraklio, Kastelli (Kissamos), Rethymno, Cycladic Islands:

Gates B, G & D

Astipalea, Folegandros, Kimolos, Kithnos, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos: Gate B Amorgos, Donoussa, Ios, Iraklia, Koufonissi, Mykonos, Santorini, Schinoussa, Syros, Tinos: Gates G&D Naxos, Paros: Gate G

Superfast Ferries Daily departures, Greece - Italy: from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Ancona and Bari Head office: 23-125 Syngrou Avenue & 3 Torva Street 11745 Athens.

Tel:210.891.9000 Reservations: Athens: 210.891.9130 Thessaloniki: 2310.560.700 www.superfast.com

insider athens | May & June 2012 69

sales points For central Athens points, see i on map EASTERN SUBURBS Gerakas: Mini Market Milionis: 131, Marathonos Avenue Pallini: Bookshop Bouzas: 63, Marathonos Street Peania: Bookshop Tangopoulos: Agias Triados Street

NORTHERN SUBURBS AG.PARASKEVI: Mini Market Avarakis: 3, Themistokleous Street, Kiosk Theodoropoulos: 8, Polytechniou Street DIONYSSOS: Kiosk Michail: 4, Mitropolitou Kydonion Street EKALI: Kiosk Kyrpoglou: Vassileos Pavlou Square FILOTHEI: Kiosk Roupa: Drossopoulou Square, Super Market Kyriakopoulos: 11, M.Renieri Street, Mini Market Plati: 27, V.Georgiou Street HALANDRI: Mini Market Kyriakou: 3, Lykourgou Street, Kiosk Drizos: V. Konstantinou & V.Georgiou Street, Bookshop Evripidis: 11, V.Konstantinou Street, Mini Market Bakatsia: 46, Pendelis Avenue, Bookshop Vivliostyl: 34, Olympou Street, Mini Market Tsakiri: 76, Ag.Antoniou Street HOLARGOS: Kiosk Bekiaris: 212, Messogion Aveue, Kiosk Tambouridis: 256, Messogion Avenue KEFALARI: Kiosk Glentzis: Patr.Maximou & Apergi Square KIFISSIA: Kiosk Karadouman: 36-38, Kyriazi Street, Bookshop Gioggaras: 34, Elaion Street, Kiosk Koutsodimou: 308, Kifissias Avenue MAROUSSI: Tobacco & Gifts Tsitsilonis: 41-43, Kifissias Avenue, Tobacco & Gifts Raptis: 64, Kifissias Street, Kiosk Stefanopoulos: 46, Kifissias Street, Mini Market Kitsios: 43, Grammoou & Dionyssou Street MELISSIA: Kiosk Manikas: 75, Dimokratias Avenue, Mini Market Koufopandelis: 28, Pigis Street NEA ERYTHREA: Kiosk Anastassopoulos: 142, Harilaou Trikoupi Street, Bookshop Giannaki: 169, Eleftheriou Venizelou Street, Newsstand: 20 klm National Road Athens-Lamia, Kiosk Konidakis: Thisseos Avenue & Papadaki, Kiosk Kallergis: 130, Tatoiou Street NEO PSYCHIKO: Kiosk Katichidis: E.Makariou & Michalakopoulou Street, Kiosk Doukas: 44, Diamantidou Street, Kiosk Gionis: 25, Chr.Smyrnis & Ag.Georgiou Street PAPAGOU: Mini Market Papavassiliou: 16, Ellispontou Street

PALEO PSYCHIKO: Kiosk Kyriakou: Solomou Square, Kiosk Gialama: Efkalypton Square, Kiosk Polydoros: Kifissias & Ag.Dimitriou Street, Kiosk Kalogeropoulos: V. GeorgiouSquare, Kiosk Kontabasis: 2, Amaryllidos & V. Pavlou Street, Kiosk Kalfagian: V. Georgiou B’ 11 POLITIA: Kiosk Vovlas: Politia Square VRILISSIA: Kiosk Theodoropoulou: 5, Analypsi Square, Kiosk Aggelopoulos: Pendelis Avenue & Omirou, Bookshop Karystinaiou: 69, Alefiou Street

SOUTHERN SUBURBS GLYFADA: Kiosk Tamourantzis: 3, Metaxa & Maragou Street, Kiosk Tsakanikas: 3, Lambraki Street, Kiosk Mavraki: Pandoras & Ioanni Metaxa, Kiosk Adamopoulos: 20, Ioanni Metaxa Street, Kiosk Papadakou: 7, Ioanni Metaxa Street, Kiosk Haikal: 1, Ioanni Metaxa & Fivis Street, Kiosk Bolota: Gounari & Iraklitou Street, Kiosk Bellou: 5, Saki Karagiorga Street, Mini Market Agiokatsikos: 24, Ilias Street HELLINIKO: NewsStand: 43-47, Vouliagmenis Avenue ILIOUPOLIS: Super Market Kokossis: 5, Glastonos Street LAGONISI: Kiosk Vassiliadis: 37,5 klm Athinon-Souniou Avenue NEA SMYRNI: Kiosk Manoussos: 28, Eleftheriou Venizelou Street VARKIZA: Kiosk Paraskevopoulou: Varkiza Square VOULA: Kiosk Leontopoulos: 12, Sokratous Street, Mini Market Pournara: 33, Pringipos Petrou Street, Kiosk Christopoulou: V. Pavlou & Ag. Ioanni Street VOULIAGMENI: Kiosk Andrioti: Armonias Square, Kiosk Chryssikos: 1, Ermou Street, Kiosk Kylitis: 14, Thisseos Street PALEO FALIRO: Kiosk Kombogianni: 1, Ag. Alexandrou Street, Kiosk Kapetanou: 24, Achilleos Street, Mini Market Nikouli: 9, Pliadon Street, Tobacco & Gifts Berekos: 1, Possidnos Avenue & Moraitini Street PIRAEUS: Hand Delivery Telstar: 57, Akti Miaouli, Tourist Chop Siatras: 46, Akti Koumoundourou Street, Kiosk Samarogiannis: 7, Merarhias B’Street, Kiosk Siaho: Akti Moutsopoulou (Kanari Square), Kiosk Kentros: 73, Iroon Polytechniou Street, Kiosk Fotis: 1, Loudovikou Street, Kiosk Spalas: 111, Karaiskou Street, Newsstand: Railway Station Loudovikou Square

www.mysephora.gr

For central Athens stores, see on map ASPROPIRGOS Filis 100 & Bouboulinas, Tel: 210.558.0989 ERMOU Ermou 24 Tel: 210. 331.3167 & 325.7744 KALLITHEA Thisseos & Davaki, Tel: 210.956.5959 - 956.5446 KIFISSIA Kassaveti 6, Tel: 210.623.1741 & 623.1742 KORYDALLOS Taxiarhon 110A, Tel: 210.569.5270 569.5998 THE MALL, Notios Paradromos Attikis Odou, Tel: 210.630.0125 & 630.0126 AVENUE Kifissias 41-45, Tel: 210.610.9739 & 610.9740

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GOLDEN HALL Kifissias Av. 37A & Sp. Louis, Tel: 210.683.7343 PANGRATI Ymittou 110 & Hremonidou, Tel: 210.751.8005 GLYFADA A. Metaxa 33-35, Tel: 210. 894.3378 & 894.5884 KOLONAKI Milioni 2, Tel: 210. 361.2666 & 362.9925 NEA MAKRI Marathonos Av. 117, Tel: 229.409.9661 PERISTERI Ethnikis Antistaseos 12, Tel: 210. 571.0755 PETROU RALLI Petrou Ralli 97, Tel: 210. 569.6596 & 569.7316 PIKERMI 21oklm. Marathonos Av., Tel: 210. 603.9987 PSYCHIKO Kifissias 210, Tel: 210. 677.5527 & 674.0178 VRILISSIA Pentelis Av. 72, Tel: 210. 810.1971 & 810.1972

city map

Map courtesy of Emvelia Publications

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The eternal Olympic spirit At the formal Olympic Torch lighting ceremony on May 17 at the Kallimarmaron, hundreds of volunteers and Athenians gathered to show their solidarity for the Olympic spirit but also for Greece. Present at the solemn ceremony were Princess Anne, long known for her close association with sports, the President of the London Olympics 2012 Organizing Committee, gold medalist, Lord Sebastian Coe, the British soccer superstar David Beckham and London’s Lord Mayor, the charismatic Boris Johnson. The crowd went on to brave the unusually wet weather and listen to Olympic gold medalist and member of the Greek Olympic Committee, Nikos Kaklamanakis, who gave an emotional address reminding Greeks that “every difficulty is a journey that one must dare to embark on because if you remain in the harbour it is like having only read the first page of a book.”

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