top ten places for coffee

Athenians love their coffee and make  it a social occasion which includes meeting friends after shopping, dating, business contacts, lunch break, or just passing the time. Many cafes have a devoted clientele, who are passionately faithful to their favorite meeting point.

Brazilian, 10 Valaoritou, t. 210 3622845 www.brazilian.gr

Historical Athenian corner with an interesting past, famous for their unique coffee blend, has been the favorite meeting point for artists, journalists, for many years. The ‘ Brazilian symphony’ which you can see framed on the wall was written by Greek writer Tahtsis and decorated by artist Fasianos. Interesting feature: photos of famous people who have passed through in the past, amongst whom Anthony Quinn and Melina Merkouri. Tip:  freshly baked croissants every morning.

Taf, Benaki 9, t. 210 3800014, www.cafetaf.gr

Just off central Omonia square, this gourmet cafe specializes in selected blends from special microclimates, and also famous tastes like Jamaica Blue mountain, Hawaii Captain Hook, Puerto Rico Yauco Selecto. A daily selection is always suggested on the blackboard, and the cafe also offers all the necessary accessories for preparing your own coffee at home. Tip: very good quality/price for espresso

Clemente, Voukourestiou 3, t. 210 3219340, Citylink arcade

Ideally placed just a few steps from Attica shopping mall, Clemente could be in Florence or Rome, owing to its exclusive Italian style. Excellent coffee, light snacks and a great place for people-watching. Favorite after-theatre meeting point, cosmopolitan, very central, popular with politicians, media, shopaholics. Tip: try the pear and ricotta dessert .

Alfiere, Sekeri 5, Kolonaki, t. 210 3609795 www.alfiere.gr

Genuine Italian taste, very near the Italian embassy, this cosy cafe offers genuine espresso at the bar or tables. Wide selection of panini, tramezzini, bocconcini and brioche for a light snack and authentic italian plates with bresaola, mozzarella, speck, accompanied with wine from a carefully selected wine cellar. Aperitifs are served after six in the afternoon. Tip: authentic Italian panettone during the Christmas period.

Da Capo, Kolonaki square, t. 210 3602497

All time classy Athenian favorite with self service and very good coffee. If you sit long enough you will certainly see somebody you know. Celebrities, politicians, media, artists, make a point of passing through daily. Vantage point for a shopping spree in this high-end area for boutiques, exclusive fashion, society meetings. Tip: tasty small snacks.

Eat at Milton’s, Adrianou 91 & Nikodimou, Plaka, t. 210 3249129 www.eatatmiltons. gr

Easy to find if walking through the famous Plaka area, with an interesting aesthetic twist. Espresso is served in ceramic copy of  scrunched paper cups in a unique tone of blue, which ties in with the flower arrangement and tiny bites of blackcurrants and sugar pastry. Michelin French chef Alain Parodi, offers an excellent menu for lunch or dinner. Tip: convenient for a break in sight seeing.

Petite Fleur, Omirou 44, Kolonaki, t. 210 3613169

Cosy and French styled, with warm colors and excellent variety of coffee and hot chocolate, this cafe- bistro has devoted fans who love the luxurious atmosphere.  Chocolate dessert and lemon tart are the bestsellers on the menu, and favorite summer cocktails include names like Nat King Cole and Julie London. Petite Fleur has extended business to Halandri, Volos and Corfu. Tip: evening ‘jazz flirt’ sessions every week.

Melina Cafe , Lysiou 22, Plaka t. 210 3246501, www. melinacafe.gr

Dedicated to the famous Greek film star Melina Mercouri, this unique cafe is ideal for breakfast, lunch, coffee and drinks. Friendly atmosphere, quality music and arty decor in a historical part of Athens, right below the Acropolis. A collection of mementos referring to Melina Mercouri offer a rare occasion for nostalgia and an insight to her passion for life and Greece. Tip: must see on a visit to Athens.

Alexandrino, Benaki 69A, Exarchia, t. 210 3827780

Situated in the student-bohemian area of Athens, a classy bistro with retro atmosphere and artistic clientele, favorite hangout for writers, actors, socialites. Interesting details and special attention to high class service, tea and coffee is served in porcelain cups, reminiscent of Alexandria in Egypt, and eastern opulence. Tip: jazz and tango musical selections are a central feature.

Launderette, Voukourestiou 34, t. 210 3390750

Chic and urban, this cafe owes its name to the previous locale, which was a laundry. Favorite lunch hangout for office workers in the area, also offers a delivery service with a wide variety of choices. Bistro atmosphere, minimal design and quality cuisine with fresh ingredients from small producers.  Jazz sessions twice a week. Tip: happy hour take away from 8-12.