Spondi

Spondi Review

One of Athens's most intensely designed temples to great food, celebrated and awarded Spondi is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. One salon shimmers with arty Swarovski chandeliers, walls of hot pink and cool aubergine, and chic black leather couches; for less glamour opt for the white-linen vaulted room, a beige-on-beige sanctorum; or, in summer, chill in the vast, bougainvillea-draped courtyard. No matter where you sit, however, you'll be able to savor the transcendentally delicious creations of Arnaud Bignon and consultant chef Eric Frechon (of Paris's Hotel Bristol fame). Highlights of their French-inspired Mediterranean menu (which has been awarded two Michelin stars) include the candied foie gras with dates, lemon, and tonka nut, the scallops with grapefruit, quinoa, pepper mint, and red pepper, and the duck with cherry, rosemary, nougat, and turnip. Or you can try the five-course "Tomatoes and Melons" taster menu accompanied by wines. For dessert, try a plate of vanilla chocolate Grand Cru with Equador chocolate, coffee, and almond nougatine. You may wish to opt for a taxi ride out to Pangrati—but isn't one of the best meals in all of Greece worth it?