Belle Epoque
NileGuide Expert Says:
Perhaps the purest dedication to the love of tea in Athens and the perfect place for a girl-date.Address:
Phone:
+30 210 3239333NileGuide Expert tip:
When we say tea, we mean tea. Don't go looking for coffee, cocoa, or Coke Light.Description:
Maybe you've never been struck with a pressing urge to shop for vintage clothing, old maps, travel books, and globes, and have a cup of hand-blended tea in a delightful room with velvet couches and tree branches, or at least not all the same time. If ever you did, and even if you didn't, you'll be happy that Belle Epoque has opened its doors on Voulis Street by the marvelous Ms. Evi, daughter of the owners of a map and travel store further into the city on Panepistimiou.The shop is in a blue neoclassical building with high ceilings and original stained glass; it's certainly the oddity of the block, a neighborhood full of traditional bakeries, lighting shops, local cafes and travel agencies. One would expect to find Belle Epoque in Kolonaki, or to go further, Paris or London.
We are delighted by its frivolous impracticality and the whole experience, including the high quality green and black teas brewed and presented in colorful, ceramic teapots with a plate of almond cookies and, what else, teacake. A mellow, eclectic soundtrack gives modernness to a timeless ritual.
The Technicolor Boutique is in an adjacent room with bright clothes and accessories from the 60's and 70's for men and women.
The last room is full of old travel books in English and Greek for nearly every spot on the globe, or globes, which there are also several of, playfully lined up along the shelves.
Nearest Metro: Syntagma
Head down Mitropolios and take a left on Voulis Street. Belle Epoque on the right side of the street.
Hours: 11am-9pm except for Saturdays: 11am-5pm
Closed Sundays
Map:
