Chefs Know Best
Georgianna Hiliadaki’s Athens

Maison Ë Which are your top selections for breakfast and baked goods in Athens?

Georgianna Hiliadaki For healthy breakfast options, I head to μe in Kolonaki, where I usually enjoy a healthy Greek yogurt bowl with avocado, granola, and Greek honey, their excellent poached eggs, or often both. When I’m craving a really good, classic loaf of bread, I stop by the nearby Bread B.C., for its pure sourdough in various fine versions that I spread with butter or cream cheese and honey. But if I’m after the best bread, then it’s always Tromeró Paidi, famous for its artisan bakery, pastry goods and the richest loaf of bread you have ever tasted. For a Parisian-style breakfast, I go to Overoll, a croissanterie with the fluffiest, most delicious croissants and amazing fillings. And for the best sandwich in the city, there’s only one place: Guarantee in Koukaki, for ciabatta sandwiches that are truly dreamy.

M.Ë What are your favorite street food spots for flavorsome meals on the go?

G.H. The truth is that when it comes to street food, souvlaki is always the answer. A good souvlaki isn’t just food; it’s a whole experience. My absolute favorite is the one from Panerythraikos in Nea Erythraia. It’s small and simple, but packed with flavor, almost like a little savory treat.

M.Ë Which fine dining restaurants are your bright culinary stars?

G.H. My forever go-to is Pelagos Restaurant, where the purity of flavors is exceptional. It is famous for its modern Mediterranean cuisine with a strong focus on seafood. Chef Luca Piscazzi is highly skilled and creative; he brings fresh ideas and clean flavors to every dish. His tasting menus are beautifully balanced, elegant, and full of finesse.

M.Ë Which restaurants do you consider the best for an international dining experience?

G.H. Sushimou is one of the best places for authentic Japanese sushi: simple, fresh, and very traditional. For Italian food, Gorlomi stands out. Chef George Maniatis, a good friend, is now in charge and he has created a more refined, modern version of Italian cuisine that tastes like heaven.

M.Ë Where can one enjoy typical Greek or modern-style sweet treats?

G.H. Selekos Conceptual Desserts is known for making some of the best panettone and vasilopita in town. My good friend Antonis uses nothing but great ingredients, and injects a lot of care into every step. His desserts are elegant and have a signature style. It’s a special place where it feels like Christmas all year long.

M.Ë And your must-visit for enthusiasts seeking the next level of drinking or timeless signature cocktails?

G.H. Zurbarán is a must-visit, known for its vibrant energy and well-crafted cocktails that balance style and flavor without trying too hard. It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy both modern signatures and easy-drinking staples in a lively setting.
The old Galaxy Bar has a more classic atmosphere with the kind of view that always makes a Negroni or Martini taste just a little better. And for something on a completely different level, The Bar in Front of the Bar is top-tier. It’s all about creativity, technique, and a playful approach to flavors. The bartenders push boundaries without losing balance, making it a destination for true cocktail enthusiasts.