Neighbourhood of the Gods
A recent business trip to central Athens found us residing in historic Plaka. Dubbed the Neighbourhood of the Gods due to its proximity to the Acropolis and its many archaeological sites, the area has much to explore but can be very touristy. On our evening volta, however, we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of interesting independent businesses in the neighbourhood between Syntagma Square and Monastiraki. So, if you’re short on time and after Greek souvenirs a little more interesting than the ubiquitous evil eye trinkets and pompom slippers, here’s Joanna Peios’ selection, all within easy walking distance:
SHOPPING
The Naxos Apothecary
The Naxos Apothecary is a modern herbal pharmacy and concept store on polygonal Kolokotronis Square. Pick up Naxos-inspired herbal remedies prepared in the in-store lab, natural skincare, organic Greek herbs, fragrances and decorative objects.
Kolokotroni 3-5, Athens
@thenaxosapothecary
Contrust Collective
A small yet well curated concept store run by a cooperative of five Greek designers and makers with the motto ‘In Co we Trust’. You’ll find one-of-a-kind ceramics, mugs, jewellery, bags and beautifully illustrated prints of Greek cities and islands.
10 Skoufou Str, Athens
@contrust_collective
Aristokratikon
While the handmade chocolates might not travel well, there’s still plenty of Greek specialities at Aristokratikon, one of the best (and oldest) traditional confectioners in Athens. I always load up on kourabiedes, loukoumi and pistachios from Aegina, all packaged in the signature red box with gold ribbon.
Voulis 7, Athens
@aristokratikon
Prigipo
For beautiful, handcrafted jewellery at a mid-range price, visit Prigipo’s largest store to shop the limited collections of bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings, all ethically made in the workshop. Under Prigipo Rendezvous, they offer a stunning wedding & engagement collection.
34 Kolokotroni Str, Athens
@prigipo
Forget me Not
A two-level store showcasing contemporary Greek design with over 100 brands, ranging from fashion, books, handbags, to sunglasses, t-shirts and stationery. Stockists of my favourite sandal brand Ancient Greek Sandals.
100 Adrianou Str, Athens
@forgetmenotathens
Zeus+Dione
Blow the budget at this luxury flagship store designed by en-route-architecture, where the collections are characterised by the brand’s unique interpretation of Hellenic myth and tradition.
6 Voukourestiou Str, Athens
@zeusndione
REFUEL AT:
LUKUMAΔEΣ
For a snack, head just round the corner from Aghia Irini church to sample oozingly good vegan lukumádes. My top pick is the sweet/savoury Cretan, filled with mizithra cheese topped with honey and sesame.
21 Eolou & Aghias Irinis Str, Athens
@lukumades
Cherchez la Femme
For something more substantial, it’s got to be this re-imagined kafeneion on the corner of Mitropoleos Square, serving light, beautifully balanced plates such as sea bream ceviche or fava with smoked eel.
Mitropoleos 46, Athens
@kafeneioncherchezlafemme
The Clumsies
When the shopping’s all getting a bit stressful, whatever time of day I urge you to pop into this legendary cocktail bar for a pick-me-up. One of the #worlds50bestbars, the cocktail I return to time and again is the sour & smokey The Conch (Otto’s Athens Vermouth, La Escondida Mescal, Ouzo Adolo, salicornia, oregano).
Praxitelous 30, Athens
@the_clumsies
STAY
Hotel Gatsby
Right in the heart of this indie shopping mecca, Art Deco-inspired 33-room boutique hotel has sumptuous interiors by Michaelis & Boyd, local artworks adorn the walls and friendly staff are kitted out in playful uniforms by Yiorgos Eleftheriades.
18 Lekka Str, Athens
@gatsbyathens
And if you simply don’t have time, remember there’s always the excellent Greek Designers Store at Athens airport!