CTC URBAN GASTRONOMY: ATHENS

I still remember my visit in 2022 — sitting down at this Michelin-starred spot for the first time and being absolutely blown away. The creativity, the flavors, the way Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis played with Greek roots and elevated ingredients — it stayed with me. So naturally, coming back this year felt like revisiting a special kind of magic.

And guess what? It was even better.

This time, I had the chance to enjoy the full “Voyage Menu” — and what a voyage it was. Each course felt like a little chapter in a very delicious story. We started with a Crab & Pita Gyros, which was the most elevated nod to classic street food I’ve ever tasted. Then came a bright and zingy Ceviche — catch of the day with chili and kiwi granita. So fresh, so clever.

The Kohlrabi dish brought oysters, dill, and a splash of retsina — it tasted like summer by the sea. And then came the Greek Version of Bread (yes, that’s how it was titled on the menu) — featuring bread, tomato, olives, and Xigalo cheese. It sounds simple, but every bite was beautifully balanced.

One of the stars of the night? The Corn Soup — with lobster, truffle, and bergamot. It was sweet, creamy, fragrant… and completely addictive.

From there, we moved into comforting richness:

• Pesto – a deconstructed calamari “tagliatelle” interpretation that somehow felt nostalgic and futuristic at the same time.

• “Athinaiki” – grouper, collagen, and greens, served with a silkiness and brightness that was just stunning.

• Lamb with eggplant and apricot – deep, earthy, sweet, and tender all in one go.

The desserts? Oh, they made me smile. The Pre-Dessert came first — a beautiful, light combo of yogurt, raspberry, almond, and chamomile. And then the real showstopper: Strawberry with pistachio from Aegina and lemongrass. Delicate and bold at once. Of course, a few Mignardises arrived to seal the deal. I tried Mastika macarons and it was love from the first bite!

And let me just say, the setting? It’s honestly hard to beat. Dining al fresco in the garden made everything feel effortlessly romantic. The warm night air, the soft light, the sound of leaves rustling while sipping wine between courses — pure magic.

Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis continues to surprise and delight without losing that elegant Greek soul. I love seeing how the menu evolves — it keeps that sense of curiosity alive.

Already dreaming of my next visit.