Aleria

Housed in a beautiful mansion in the heart of Athens, Aleria offers refined modern Greek cuisine where the local produce is honoured. The restaurant is the perfect backdrop for the exquisite cuisine boasting high ceilings, marble floors and stunning décor. When the weather is good, the luscious courtyard is the perfect place to dine. The ambience is further enhanced by the warmth of the wait staff, in particular the amiable Nikiforos Kechadiadakis who is the man behind Aleria and oversees the smooth operation of the restaurant.

The kitchen is in safe hands under the guidance of Head Chef Gikas Xenakis whose resume boasts avant-garde restaurants in Greece and abroad along with great chefs.

The execution of the menu utilises modern gastronomic techniques while introducing Grecian flavours which excite and delight.

Not to be outshone is the impenetrable wine list which includes a great selection of local and international wines. We were pleased to indulge in some Greek wines chosen by the sommelier to match each of our courses.

An interesting array of appetisers commence the dining experience on a playful note – each item, bursting with flavour. Course after course flowed after in the most magical manner. Gikas was certainly taking us on a journey.

Highlights from the menu include the Tartare “Mousaka” which was a thoroughly modern interpretation of the traditional and tasted fabulous. Delicately sliced beef simply melted in our mouths while the other elements created a nostalgic taste of the traditional moussaka.

The dish of pumpkin mousse was similarly delightful. Airy mousse with captivating black truffles, chestnuts and apaki (traditional Cretan smoked meat) came together beautifully.

For mains the Pastitsio was a standout. Thick, slipper, al dente pasta encased pulled oxtail and shiitake mushrooms. It was comfort food at its best.

Dinner at Aleria is an elegantly refined affair. Gikas’ subtle creativity paired with beautiful Greek produce hits all the right notes to produce a truly gourmet and unforgettable experience.

Location: Megalou Alexandrou 57, Metaxourgio - Athens, 104 35

Phone: 210 52 22 633

Link: www.aleria.gr