Until recently we always visited Piraeus only to catch the ferry to the Cyclades, but the truth is that in recent years the country’s main port has evolved into an interesting all-day meeting point, well worth the drive.
Che Cocina y Barra Sudamericana
An all-day bar restaurant –a real extravaganza transporting us in Frida Kahlo’s neighbourhood in faraway Mexico- boasting an impressive mural of the famous painter which adorns the magnificent garden, observing us while we enjoy the atmosphere, the flavours and aromas. Having a Mexican flair, brunch is served until 14:00, featuring dishes such as croque señor eggs with sausage, cheddar cheese and bacon powder, while from then on flavours get much more South American and range from Peruvian potato with slow-cooked Iberico pork to Black Angus fajitas with chimichurri sauce and agave glaze.
151, Karaiskou Street, Piraeus, +30 210 4296660, Website, Facebook
Belle Amie
Housed in a jewel of a building in the heart of Piraeus, this very special place bears a long history, part of which can be traced back to the lyrics of a famous Greek song inspired by it, that is, “Stou Belle Amie to ouzeri” by Greek folk singer & songwriter Grigoris Bithikotsis. While it is still warm you will most probably be won over by Belle Amie’s blossomed courtyard in Kanari Square. Yet, it is well-worth taking a look at the restaurant’s impressive interiors, too. All kinds of imaginative sandwiches, sweet and savoury pancakes and egg dishes are served until late, paving the way for the next course that features dishes in a modern Greek culinary style, such as vine leaves stuffed with shrimps, mussels and chorizo from Drama, Greece, salmon pastirma with yellow split bean puree and capers, lemony cockerel with sour trahana (a kind of tiny, pebble-shaped pasta made from kibbled wheat and fermented milk) and verbena.
11, Aggelou Metaxa & Voulgari, Piraeus, +30 210 4175740, Facebook
Istioploikos
The famous hangout in Mikrolimano has been welcoming us for some time now with a brand new and particularly stylish look. Once seated on its beautiful terrace, decorated with natural materials and relaxing colours, one feels like sailing on a cruise. As night falls, the setting becomes particularly atmospheric and romantic. An extensive brunch menu awaits the early birds, along with plenty of antioxidant shakes and smoothies, while those who wish to dine properly will find modern-style dishes with Italian and Asian touches, such as pastitsio (baked pasta dish) spring rolls, crispy shrimp bao buns and Pacherri Greca pasta with capers, olives and eggplant.
Akti Mikrolimanou, Piraeus, +30 210 4134084, , Website, Facebook
Darling
One of the most popular haunts in the heart of Piraeus, suitable for every mood. Action starts early; well-brewed coffee and hearty brunch dishes, such as beef tagliata, arugula, cheese mousse and pistachio pesto flatbread. Further, the menu features everything from salads, pizza and burgers, to pasta and risotto, as well as some main courses, while the bar comes into play with nice drinks and elegant cocktails.
8, Iakovou Dragatsi, Piraeus, +30 210 4101410, Facebook
Horizon Rooftop of Senses
It is one of the relatively recent additions to Mikrolimano, which it overlooks from its elegant rooftop. The atmosphere, reminiscent of a luxury yacht, is particularly pleasant, especially on weekends when it opens early, serving a tempting brunch. In the evenings you may enjoy modern comfort food, toothsome finger food and cocktails with a view of the masts and the sea.
24, Akti Koumoundourou, Mikrolimano, Piraeus, +30 210 4138224, Facebook
