Was That Meghan Markle at Taverna 37 @ the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens?
Dine in this breezy seaside hideaway and you might find yourself next to royalty...and we don't mean the ersatz Southern California kind
Was that Meghan Markle at the table next to ours? No, but on a previous visit there was real royalty seated near us at the Taverna 37 at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. It was Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece, Prince of Denmark RE and friend. A more recent visit reminded us that this is one of a number of great restaurants at this legendary resort in Vouliagmeni, along the Athens Riviera. Although it’s just a short drive from downtown Athens, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from all the city noise and traffic and on a remote but chic Greek island.
The landmark hotel facing the Mediterranean Sea has welcomed celebrities as diverse as Brigitte Bardot, Jackie Onassis and Lisa Whelchel. But you don’t have to be a guest of this luxurious property (famous or otherwise) to indulge in a memorable meal. The range of restaurants include the gourmet Michelin-starred Pelagos and the Italian trattoria-style Mercato, but for a taste of the genuine Greek seaside taverna flavor you definitely don’t want to miss Taverna 37.
The design is relaxed rustic-chic and the tables, all outdoors, are set right by the water’s edge.Wooden chairs and tables and fresh sea breezes are reminiscent of Mykonos. Try the selection of authentic Greek appetizers, or meze. These include Santorini fava with onion and capers, dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves), agioritiki eggplant salad, taramosalata with olive oil and lemon, and more. We loved the fresh zucchini patties with mint, dill, and feta sauce, as well as delicious patates tiganites — French fries — with sea salt.
A standout main dish was the white grouper filet with peas, zucchini, mint, and tomato vinaigrette. The striftaria pasta with bell peppers, basil, and haloumi cheese tempted. So did desserts like sokolatina chocolate mousse and biscuit with warm “Metaxa” brandy and galaktompoureko, with Kataifi phyllo and Kaimaki ice cream.
There is also a wide range of cocktails and refreshing mocktails, and the service is always friendly and professional. If you can stay at this spectacular resort on your trip to Greece, do so. If not, making time for a leisurely lunch or dinner by the sea here at Taverna 37 is an absolute must. Visit www.fourseasons.com/athens.
Source: Pam Price, Author of “100 Best Spas of the World”