I had no idea what to expect the first time I visited Greece. What I can say is that I find a certain comfort level I’ve not felt too many other places in Europe. In 2022, I toured most the country. Small towns, coastal villages, and larger cities. We went 5 days without anyone really speaking a lick of English, which I loved.
I witnessed a lot of poverty, of course, but I also met a proud population. In many ways, and I’ve said this a few times since, they remind me of my childhood in Miami. They can be loud and gregarious, making a normal conversation seem like an argument. They can be incredibly kind and helpful. I love Athens because it is absolutely a big city, but it feels small. Like a Boston or a Washington DC. This year, I fell head over heels for Santorini. The views, the scene, the people. Small enough to navigate and personal enough to feel like you are the only person on the planet. That is, if you aren’t part of a cruise ship group. Oh boy. Those lines. UGH.
I could go on and on, but I promised a list of what I enjoyed in Greece and a reference to 3 resources. Two in Greece, one here in Savannah that you should keep in your back pocket. You never know when you may need them.
ATHENS
If you can get past the rundown sections and the graffiti, then Athens is a jewel. Central Athens and its Plaka District almost literally wrap around the Acropolis, making it visible from nearly every angle. Touristy? Of course, a bit. But I’ve found most of Athens to be incredibly affordable. In 9 days with my family I don’t think any meal (including wine) topped 100 Euro (Roughly $116.00) for 3 people. Try that around here.
Given what it is that I do for a living, probably the thing I enjoy most about Athens (besides the history, of course) is the fact that the food and beverage establishments all over the city are impeccably decorated. Every restaurant and/or bar is arguably more beautiful than the one before it. I’m not sure what it is about the culture there that leads to that dynamic. Sure, I’ve seen beautiful spaces in most American major cities, but in Athens they are ALL beautiful. One example is Buena Vista Social Bar. We visited their rooftop for a sunset. Cuban themed and incredibly gorgeous, the drinks were on point. The food left a little to be desired, but on a rooftop like this with views like this, it was one of my highlights no question.
There are a ton of places we ate. So many worthy of space here, but I will share two more in Athens. Wine O’Clock Wine Bar. Tiny and wonderful with a very knowledgeable owner. You don’t get much more of a local vibe than this. Located not 5 mins by foot from the entrance to the Acropolis. Highly recommended. Solid munchies too. We very much enjoyed a wonderful lunch at El Greco. Wonderful food, service and not at all touristy.
SANTORINI
There isn’t enough room on the internet to share my absolute adoration for everything we experienced in Santorini. While I am aware that it is just one of many beautiful Greek Islands, we chose that one because it, along with Mykonos, are probably the most popular. We chose this one and have zero regrets. The villa we stayed in was called Archontiko Suites. Our unit came with a private jacuzzi on the roof. It was amazing. There are, of course, dozens and dozens of places to stay so options are good. One thing I will say is that staying on the cliffs of Santorini like we did requires lots of walking up and down stairs. Not for the faint of heart. Even if you hire someone to take your bags down (or back up) you still have to walk it. It can be a challenge even for those of us who have run marathons.
The other thing we liked about Santorini were the options for eats. Having had Greek every day in Athens, we loved options, which were very much available in the town of Fira, Santorini’s largest village. We had Chinese one night (good not memorable). Lucky’s is a casual street food stop that will have a line out the door, but it is worth the wait. Outside of Fira? One stop stood out among them.
PINK SOPHIA MARIA was one of our best meals of the week. Located along a walking path between the towns of Imerovigli and Fira, it is a tiny mom and pop operation with impeccable views of the water on both sides of the island. They bill themselves as a Greek Bistro and Deli. The menu is smallish, but it is obvious that everything is made in house. Including my Moussaka, a Greek Lasagna made with eggplant. It was one of the most delicious things I ate all week. Simply exceptional. I cannot recommend this place enough.
The other spot we enjoyed in Santorini was a bit touristy, but good, Naoussa Restaurant. Like so many eateries, the views are impeccable. The food was good. The entertainment at night is wonderful. I would recommend this place absolutely.
RESOURCES
Having been to Greece now twice, there is a comfort level. Before my visit to the Islands this Summer I was unfamiliar, so I took to the internet for guidance. In doing so, I found a Youtube page called GREECE EXPLAINED. It is hosted by a young man named Sebastian. He offers a series of videos on how to navigate Greece. From Athens to the islands and everything in between. He explains foods, travel, taxis, neighborhoods and so much more. I took lots of notes in watching his videos and did everything he suggested. It was 100 percent accurate. A must watch series for ANYONE planning to visit Greece.
TWO BIRDS STREET FOOD in SAVANNAH
Savannah’s Greek Caterer Two Birds owned and operated by Elena Hugley and her husband Sonny can be found here. Her food is exceptional. Highly recommend on the local Savannah front. You can find that at the Tybee Island Farmers Market every Monday afternoon.
That dish is absolutely as good as it looks. I read maybe 3-6 different recipes before I went for it. This one is a good starting point. I use fresh pasta. Only fresh pasta. In Savannah you can find it at Frali Gourmet on Liberty Street.
Last but not least is my friend Stamie Turner. South Carolina native now living in Athens, Stamie is owner of a company called Her Dream Vacations. She specializes in tours for groups of women. She takes them all over the world. Europe, Vietnam, and yes, even Greece. She is meticulous in her planning, knowledgable and a special kind of hostess. Her company is called Her Dream Vacations. Questions for her about her service or a favorite spot for a bite in Greece should go to info@herdreamvacation.com.
Of course, if you have questions for us, we are around most of the time. Email us at tips@eatitandlikeit.com.
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