Athens: Mediterranean Spirits Meet Modern Mixology

BY: Paul Martinez

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updated 17 Jul 2024

Athens' cocktail scene perfectly mirrors its city's character: a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern innovation. Local mixologists are reimagining traditional Greek spirits in contemporary ways, creating a unique drinking culture that pays homage to both past and present.

Athens: Mediterranean Spirits Meet Modern Mixology

The Athenian cocktail landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging as one of the Mediterranean's most exciting drink destinations. The city's mixologists have mastered the art of incorporating traditional Greek spirits like Ouzo, Tsipouro, and Mastiha into sophisticated contemporary cocktails.

The scene flourishes in diverse neighborhoods, from the bohemian streets of Psyrri to the sophisticated bars of Kolonaki. Historic neoclassical buildings house modern cocktail bars, while rooftop venues offer stunning views of the Acropolis alongside innovative drinks.

What sets Athens apart is its bartenders' creative use of local ingredients: Mediterranean herbs, citrus fruits, and Greek honey feature prominently in signature creations. Many establishments maintain their own herb gardens and create house-made syrups and bitters using traditional Greek ingredients.

A bit of history...

Athens' relationship with spirits dates back to ancient times, with references to aromatic wines and herbal preparations found in classical texts. The modern cocktail culture began in the early 20th century with the establishment of historic hotel bars serving international clientele.

The introduction of Ouzo and other anise-based spirits in the late 19th century laid the foundation for Greece's unique contribution to global spirit culture. The contemporary cocktail renaissance began in the early 2010s, as young Greek bartenders returned from international experiences to revolutionize the local scene.

Ingredients & Spirits used locally

During the 1950s, the legendary Grande Bretagne Hotel bar created the Acropolis View, a sophisticated cocktail combining Greek Mastiha with imported spirits. The drink became so popular among international celebrities that Time Magazine featured it in a 1956 article about Athens' emerging cosmopolitan culture.

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Ingredients & Spirits used locally

  • Ouzo

  • Tsipouro

  • Mastiha

  • Tentura

  • Greek Mountain Tea

  • Cretan Herbs

  • Aegean Citrus

  • Greek Mountain Herbs

  • Mastic Resin

Cocktail Education in "Athens"

Athens offers various opportunities for aspiring mixologists to learn their craft

  1. Athens Bartending Academy

    Premier institution offering comprehensive courses in both international mixology and Greek spirit specialization

  2. Mediterranean Spirits Institute

    Specialized school focused on traditional Greek spirits and their application in modern cocktails

Iconic Cocktail Bars in "Athens"

The city offers numerous options when it comes to cocktail bars. Here is a shortlist of some of the most interesting and popular...

  1. The Clumsies

    World-renowned cocktail institution known for innovative techniques and Greek ingredient-focused drinks. Their experimental approach has earned them international acclaim.

    Praxitelous 30

  2. Baba Au Rum

    Pioneer of Athens' modern cocktail scene, featuring an extensive rum collection and creative cocktails incorporating Greek spirits.

    Klitiou 6

  3. A for Athens

    Rooftop bar offering spectacular Acropolis views and sophisticated cocktails featuring local ingredients and spirits.

    Miaouli 2

  4. CV Distiller

    Intimate bar specializing in rare spirits and creative cocktails that showcase Greek ingredients in unexpected ways.

    Fokionos 7

  5. Noel

    Atmospheric venue combining classic cocktails with Greek twists in a uniquely decorated space.

    Kolokotroni 59B

  6. Galaxy Bar

    Historic rooftop bar at Hilton Athens offering panoramic views and sophisticated cocktails with Greek influences.

    Vassilissis Sofias 46

  7. Bank Job

    Speakeasy-style bar in an old bank vault, known for their innovative use of Greek spirits and herbs.

    Kolokotroni 13

  8. Gin Joint

    Specialist gin bar incorporating Greek botanicals and local ingredients into classic and innovative cocktails.

    Christou Lada 1

  9. 7 Jokers

    Local favorite known for creative cocktails and expert use of Greek spirits in classic recipes.

    Voulis 7

  10. Upupa Epops

    Garden bar specializing in herb-infused cocktails using ingredients from their own botanical garden.

    Alkiviandou 7

  11. Theory Bar

    Modern establishment focused on experimental mixology and innovative use of Greek ingredients.

    Voulis 32

  12. Kifissia Prohibition

    Elegant suburban bar offering sophisticated cocktails with Greek spirits and local herbs.

    Kassaveti 1

  13. Bar in Front of the Bar

    Progressive cocktail bar known for avant-garde presentations and use of traditional Greek elements.

    Vryaksidos 11

  14. Barreldier

    Specialized in barrel-aged cocktails featuring Greek spirits and Mediterranean botanicals.

    Voulis 7

  15. Retiré

    Sophisticated venue combining classic cocktail craftsmanship with Greek ingredients and traditions.

    Tsakalof 14

Future expectations...

Athens continues to push boundaries in mixology, blending its rich heritage with contemporary innovation.