New History Takes Over Tradition
The Athenian House started its first season in 2016 by owners Louisa Danezi and her husband. Originally, their idea was to create a restaurant where patrons would feel like they were dining at a traditional Athenian house. The concept was originally meant to be executed abroad. But as Louisa says, it was fate that led them to set up shop on the beautiful island of Santorini. Falling in love with the terrace upon seeing it, they decided to rent the property. And who wouldn’t fall in love with that terrace, or, in particular, the view it offers?
An old, abandoned house, the couple decided to keep it in its traditional state. And while they refurbished and renovated it, they did keep all the old stones and tried to maintain as much of its authenticity as possible. Even the bathroom is still outside (located on the patio area), rather than inside the restaurant!
Their food is also a gourmet twist on traditional recipes. With a very small menu, they only have 7 entrees, 5 appetizers and 3 salads to choose from. This makes ordering a bit easier for people like me. With a smaller selection there’s less to vacillate over.
The Athenian House’s concept was to bring traditional Greek cuisine from all over Greece to their customers. Not just serve traditional Greek food native to Santorini, but from all over the country. The idea was that the customer gets to go through a bit of a gastronomic odyssey from around the whole of the country. Before them, Louisa tells me that the standard cuisine in restaurants around the famous island were either from the island itself, or French cuisine. And while they have an array of fresh and local ingredients from the island, this is one reason their prices are not as low as you might hope.
Prices & Prestige
In truth, The Athenian House’s prices are where they are because of the location. And I’m not referring to the view, though that’s certainly a part of what you’re paying for. Because The Athenian House is located in an area where no cars are allowed, and there are some high staircases to reach the restaurant, the cost to bring in ingredients is high. This contributes to the cost of the dishes, which is certainly understandable.
For 3 years the couple worked with the very famous chef, Dimitris Skarmoutsos. He’s been a master chef 7 times over, and is apparently on TV quite a bit. Working with the chef has undoubtedly added to the restaurant’s popularity all the more. And because of his influence, the restaurant has been able to evolve their menu and concepts all the more. And not only did they work with the famous Chef Dimitrius, but at present, they are working with another top chef in the country.
Their most popular dish? Moussaka. But you don’t know anything yet. Their version is a gourmet take on the traditional Greek recipe. Prepared with minced lamb meat, white eggplant, Tahini, béchamel with feta cheese it is served with a lamb chop on the side, this version of Moussaka sounds incredible. And when I tried ordering it the evening I had dinner at the high-end restaurant, they were out. This suggested to me that they are not only busy, but that it really is as delicious as it sounds.
Santorini Wine & Cocktails at The Athenian House
Santorini wine is purportedly very special because of the volcanic ground. Sold at a very high cost in the United States, Santorini is one of the only 3 areas of the world, which have vineyards which were not affected by the Phylloxera. This makes the Santorini vineyards known as virgin vineyards. This being the case, the wine is not only super delicious, but also super expensive. With good reason, obviously. My experience with the bottle the owners selected for me was absolutely incredible. Unquestionably, the wine I had that evening was the best I had the entire time I was in Greece, and it was clear why it was 95 Euro per bottle.
They also have a well-known and talented mixologist on staff, who combines ingredients that you wouldn’t normally anticipate in a cocktail. Surprising flavors will hit your taste buds the second you take a sip.
Louisa suggests that, apart from the location, view, good food and wine, coming “as you are” has attracted many a guest. While they are a very upscale restaurant, they don’t put on airs, and welcome everyone to come in for a meal. Louisa adds that whether you want to wear high heels and a gown, or flip-flops straight from the beach, in any case they make sure to put the customer at ease.
Their staff is beyond professional and knowledgeable about anything you might want to know, and the setting ideal for a romantic evening out. Do treat yourself to some wine, because that may be the best thing you have there that night. Make sure to order their creative appetizers which are worth ordering just to see the artistic design. But for sure, don’t leave without tasting their chocolate bar for dessert. It was amazing. Yes. I said amazing.
And when you book your reservation at The Athenian House, make sure to tell them Lisa sent you!
Need a great place to stay while in Santorini away from the noise and clamor of tourists? Check out Dantelo Luxury Residences!
In the mood for some delicious burgers while in Santorini? Check out D’s Burgers!
Get Lost with Lisa 