Athens – Demo

This isn’t a post about the demonstrations that were taking place in Athens, instead next on the list of bars to visit was Demo, a rather on-trend little arrangement which had something of a positive and vibrant feel to it. This is quite a lively area of the city, but it’s hard to keep Richard away from these hubs of nightlife.

I went for the Grimbergen Blanche which was light, sweet and smooth. Richard discovered rakomelo which is served hot, often during the colder months of the year, containing raki, cinnamon and cloves. Sweet and warming, it’s a traditional Greek drink and I think Richard was so surprised and delighted by it that he’ll be making it at home. Also praise for the rather delicious crisps which were provided free of charge, we definitely need that concept extending into the UK.

The back bar which all felt modern, with the service being timely, friendly and engaging. I’m not really one for music, but they had a pleasant and upbeat arrangement being played which added to the atmosphere rather than annoying me. Everything felt clean and organised as well, with surfaces being dry and not sticky. The customers seemed to be generally younger, other than Richard, with the drinks served quickly even though the preparation of the rakomelo looked like a right faff to me.

The Double Ambree from Grimbergen, which was dark and deep with a taste of caramel and some fruit that has fallen off a tree.

This was a rather lovely bar with a reasonable amount of space internally and externally. Richard was delighted with his new drink and I got t0 try a Grimbergen beer that I haven’t had before. The prices were reasonable and it felt warm and cosy. It’s also open for long hours, from 11.00 until 02.00 every day of the week.