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The previous night, David, Alvin, Alli, and I had dinner at Santorini’s fanciest restaurant. By fancy, I mean it was full of gelées and foams. It wasn’t horrible, but it also wasn’t worth the money. Alvin and Alli also complained the hostess who kept coming over to their side of the table had serious B.O. Not very appetizing for any establishment. So after a little snorkeling in Amoudi Bay, I wasn’t expecting much when we came upon Dimitris, a less fancy restaurant overlooking the bay. (By the way, snorkeling isn’t great in Amoudi, but we had a nice swim. An invigorating, icy cold swim.) But when the owner took us back to the kitchen to show us the refrigerated case full of fresh seafood and gave us an in depth explanation of all of its occupants, I knew it was a good sign. MORE »
Working in Times Square, I know finding decent food in a tourist area is next to impossible. Bruni’s New York Times article was helpful in finding eats away from the hustle bustle, but when you’re smack dab in it and severely jet-lagged, convenience plays a big role in the restaurant decision-making process. One night after wandering the winding, cobblestone streets in Plaka — by the way where I stumbled and nearly sprained my ankle (Damn you picturesque cobblestone streets!) — we took the advice of the concierge at our hotel and climbed the steps of Mnisikleous Street until we reached Geros tou Moria. David and I were offered a table inside with the promise of live Greek music, but we decided to sit outside, right on the steps, underneath a grape trellis, and within the shadow of the Acropolis. Times Square should be so pleasant. MORE »
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Coverage of restaurants by the New York Times outside of the U.S. can be iffy. (Within New York can sometimes be problematic as well.) At the end, it all boils down to the writers you trust. For the most part, when it comes to food, I trust Frank Bruni, so before I left for Athens, I printed out Bruni’s “How to Eat Well in Athens.” (Coincidentally it was published on my birthday early this year. I secretly took it as a sign.) Of the five restaurants he wrote about, I visited two: Margaro and Karavitis. Both I liked, but I preferred Margaro slightly more. Conveniently for this blog, I happen to have taken pictures of my meal at Margaro. MORE »
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David and I had pricier meals in Athens, but our favorites were the meat-stuffed, white sauce-laden ones quickly scarfed down in Monastiraki Square. David was a fan of the souvlaki at O Thanasis and I was blown away by the gyro at Sabbas. MORE »
This was David’s grilled sea bream (€17/$24.62) two days ago at Perissa Tavern in Santorini. It was a bit overcooked, but for a seaside tavern on Perissa Beach, the presentation was amazing. Perissa Tavern seems to be owned by the same people that own Porto Castello next door. If time permits, we may check out their other restaurant. One added bonus of dining at either restaurant is that use of their beach chairs with an umbrella during or after the meal is free (normally €5/$7.24). Perfect for lounging and digesting. MORE »