Food, drinks, casual and cool hang outs to enjoy before or after visiting the National Opera

The relocation of the Greek National Opera to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) 7 years ago, as was expected, started shedding more light, gradually but steadily, to a historic neighborhood that had been long overlooked by most Athenians. Kallithea, and more specifically the largely residential area -minus the big commercial buildings on Syggrou street-, closer to the coast, Tzitzifies. 

Of course, the many family owned fish taverns for which the area is known have always had a faithful following, but many theater lovers have only recently been introduced to them, as well as some newer establishments worth visiting. From traditional tavernas to cool wine bars, all day restaurants with beautiful gardens and even a Pan-asian London brand, we have you covered when it comes to choosing where to dine before your show, as well as picking out the best place to get your nightcap. 

All time classics 

If you want to honor the neighborhood’s specific character -or if you really want to eat good fish and “psaromezedes” (mezze with fish and/or seafood)-, then head to the nearby fish restaurants that are, by the way, within walking distance from the SNFCC.

The oldest one is Pezoulas established in 1951 by Panagiotis Pezoulas, now headed by his descendants. Go for the food but also basque in the knowledge that this was once the hang out of the race track dwellers as well as famous, old-time Greek singers.

Even though it’ summer now and we are in the middle of a prolonged heat wave, keep in mind that the staple dish here is the fish soup, so give it a try when the temperature is more appropriate. For now, go for the other “star” on the menu, the “taramosalata” which is made with no bread and is more like a tarama mousse than anything else. Besides the selection of fresh fish for those who can spare a few extra euros, an excellent choice would be the smaller platters suitable for sharing, that can be more budget friendly, like the fava with eel and the sea bass carpaccio and ceviche. Pezoulas is also known for its skillfully prepared fried fish and a well curated wine list. 

Another local favorite is Antonia’s fish mezze ( Xenofontos 191 Corner with Isminis 36, Kallithea). Food like the Greek moms and grandmothers make, comforting and soothing, which is why the restaurant is almost always packed. Try all the traditional dishes like kalamarakia, octopus, fried zucchini, shrimp, big and smaller fish sourced from small fishermen or the fish market in Ichthioskala. 

Cocktails and wine

Just across the street from Pezoulas, the top destination for an after show drink is of course the Warehouse Edge (Peisistratou 4). To Athenians it is a safe choice because they have all at some point in their life visited the other two affiliates in Exarchia and Panormou. Its has a really extensive and interesting wine list, as well as an array of rare spirits and liquors. The food is good too and, if you happen to find yourself in the area earlier in the day, try their brunch. You will not be disappointed. 

The brunch is also a point of attraction for the Jardin All Day Stories⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣, but not more than the its beautiful garden. Suitable for any hour of the day -as evident from its name-, it especially comes alive at night. Try the cocktails and enjoy the green oasis in the middle of a mostly concrete filled neighborhood. 

An ethnic flair

Crossing Syggrou Avenue is not an easy task but it is worth it if it’s going to get you to E&O and its beautiful rooftop.

Situated on the 8th floor of the Athens Marriott Hotel the Notting Hill born brand offers pan-asian cuisine, playful cocktails and a breathtaking view of the SNFCC and the Athens marina -the sunset is one of the most beautiful in the city. Food takes inspiration from across Asia, specialising in dishes cooked on our traditional robata grill, such as Korean lamb chops with kimchee, blackened salmon and Cantonese-style flamed king prawns. We suggest you try the pad-thai, the sushi of course and the usuzukuri. Also, its a great place to relax after a long day’s work along with friends and colleagues. 

Argoura

Last, but definitely not least, even though you have to hop in the car for a quick drive for this one, you should at least try once Argoura, one of the best restaurants in Athens  -inside info, this is where the chefs gather to eat.

Nikos Michail, the owner is a real connoisseur of rare and scarcely used treasures of the sea and a virtuoso at bringing out their best flavors. Try anything and everything on the menu!