Psirri / Agion Anargyron street, Athens

Psirri is a happening arty and bohemian neighborhood nestled between Athinas shopping area, Monastiraki and Agion Asomaton (Thissio) squares. Once working-class-industrial district turned scaled-down version of NYC Soho mixed up with the East Village, today's Psirri is an entertainment mecca renowned for its cool, relaxed vibe, but just as importantly for its vibrant food scene manifested in the myriad of small newly-opened cafes coexisting harmoniously with the unpretentious 50-year-old taverns, ouzerie-mezedopouleon-style eateries (the Greek version of tapas bars, reminiscent of a luncheonette from a 1960s movie) tucked away in the winding streets and smaller alleyways. Situated right next to the picturesque yet overwhelmingly touristy Plaka district, Psirri charges just a fraction of its prices, for which it is much loved by the local students and other hip, young and restless flocking here in droves for cheap nights out. Overall, the area resembles a theatrical show, where each person is an actor, seemingly casual while fully, if not say – happily, dedicated to their part. To share the mood of the crowd and to follow their rhythm, it is best to park yourself at one of the tables and chairs outside the many bars and coffee shops and enjoy some of their freshly made delights, heavenly delicious, served in killer portions.

Heading towards Plateia Iroon via Agion Anargyron street, we pass through a somewhat tranquil zone replete with small cafes, all with free Wi-Fi, ideal for a quiet breakfast or just sitting out reading news or checking e-mails. The farther we go up the street, the closer we get to the main drag and the louder and higher-key it becomes.

Down the road, opposite the church, we find NIKITAS, a typical Greek place with several traditional dishes of the day readily available (e.g. biftekia, eggplant in tomato sauce), friendly ambiance, and affordable prices – one of the last remaining establishments of this kind in Psirri.

At the very end of Agion Anargyron, we bump into another popular location – PAME PSIRRI restaurant – renowned for its live laika and rembetika shows, as well as good food in good portions (especially the meat variety).