Legend has it that Lycabettus Hill, the best level in Athens, exists as a result of the goddess Athena was startled by dangerous information given to her when carrying a limestone mountain from the Pallene peninsula to assist with the development of the Acropolis.
On the high of this hill, within the Kolonaki neighbourhood of town, there’s a restaurant providing fabulous views of the area – Orizontes Lycabettus.
It’s open for lunch and dinner, with advance reserving beneficial, notably in peak season. At simply 277 metres excessive, it isn’t up to now to stroll however, with temperatures round 36°C/97°F, we opted as a substitute to take the funicular up and to stroll off our lunch down the hill afterwards. The funicular takes you to only a stone’s throw from the restaurant. There may be additionally a bar, a small sq. and viewing space, and the beautiful whitewashed Greek Orthodox Chapel of St. George.
The meals
The Mediterranean-inspired menu at Orizontes Lycabettusis is expansive and gives high quality produce and flavours from throughout Greece. Our starters included the perfectly-cooked grilled shrimps, which had been butterflied, and served with a combined seasonal salad and herbs, drizzled with a little bit further virgin olive oil.
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The stir-fried mushrooms with goat’s cheese cream sauce and potato chips had been exceptionally tasty, with an fascinating distinction in textures and flavours.
Though I didn’t style it myself, the salad of seasonal greens with tomato, orange and spring onions, lighly certain with a white cream cheese was additionally loved.
Amongst our mains, the stand-out dish was the lobster with linguine, cooked in a selfmade bisque infused with contemporary tomato and basil, and bursting with flavour.
The rack of lamb, with a lightweight coating of pistachio from Aegina, served with with a lamb jus, poached pear and potatoes, additionally appeared very tempting.
Considered one of us opted for a salad in lieu of a fundamental – the restaurant’s conventional Greek salad is served with feta from Arcadia (recognized for its wealthy agricultural heritage and conventional strategies of top quality cheese manufacturing), capers and rusks.
The chef
Piraeus-born chef and culinary teacher Michael Zacharis has labored at many eating places in Greece together with within the kitchens of upscale lodges akin to Radisson Blu Park Lodge, Athens; 4 Seasons Astir Palace Lodge Athens and White Rocks Lodge Kefalonia. Most just lately he was Head Chef at Mezze Athens (which can also be a part of the Kastelorizo Group of eating places to which Orizontes Lycabettus belongs). Impressed by Greek culinary traditions, he additionally likes to skillfully mix worldwide delicacies from international locations akin to Spain and Peru.
The atmosphere
You’ll wish to dine on the outside terrace if the climate permits and take advantage of the fabulous views from Orizontes Lycabettus, though there are many covers accessible indoors if the climate isn’t beneficial. The beautiful panoramic views of town, the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea past are a feast for the senses in their very own proper. This elegant setting is matched with crisp, white linen and exudes a refind and tranquil ambiance, away from the hustle and bustle of town centre under. It’s the right setting for a romantic dinner or a special day.
The price
Appetisers and salads are within the area of €15-€25. Mains vary from €27 to €51. Desserts are priced at €9.50.
The ultimate verdict
The views alone are purpose sufficient to dine at Orizontes Lycabettus. The breathtaking panorama of Athens sprawling beneath, whether or not within the mild of day or below town lights at evening, is to not be missed. Past the fantastic vistas, although, there’s additionally a culinary expertise to take pleasure in right here, that includes a Mediterranean-inspired menu that showcases the richness of Greek delicacies. Should you’re planning a go to your self, I’d heartily advocate you attempt the lobster with linguine – a dish that completely captures the essence of the chef’s culinary experience.
Disclosure: This submit is sponsored by Orizontes Lycabettus.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxurious Journey Weblog and has labored within the journey business for greater than 30 years. He’s Winner of the Improvements in Journey ‘Finest Journey Influencer’ Award from WIRED journal. Along with different awards, the weblog has additionally been voted “one of many world’s finest journey blogs” and “finest for luxurious” by The Telegraph.
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