DRINK > Brettos, Athens (17/20)

The oldest distillery in Athens, in the middle of the Plaka, selling cold drinks and snacks. What’s not to like? .

AMBIENCE >

Operating since 1909, Brettos has had time to produce and collect lots of bottles. Two walls are lined with coloured glass bottles, a kaleidoscope of colour and alcohol with enough brightness to remind you it’s summer (and 30+ degrees) outside. A third wall is lined with barrels, and the front is windows to the busy-ness of the Plaka outside. There are outdoor tables, but the coolness of the air conditioning (!!) makes inside much more pleasant.

The day we visited, it seemed to be the meeting spot for a very large group of American tourists soon to board a cruise. “We haven’t met you yet?”, said one couple at the other end of our communal table. We set them straight, but were unsure whether to be flattered by the assumption. It was a loud and boisterous crowd, but I expect it might be slightly quieter with less Americans and more Greeks. 

EAT & DRINK >

Drinks are the focus with traditional Greek spirits, wines and beers, and more than 35 flavours of liqueur.  As well as drinking, tastings are also available, of wine, brandy, ouzo, liqueurs, honey and olive oil. 

There was one food item on the menu, a plate of cheese, meat, olives and bread. Perfect for soaking up drinks.

ONE MORE THING >

While Brettos was once an operating distillery, this has relocated to Kallithea with the Plaka site operating as a bar and liquor shop. Don’t forget to take a bottle home.

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Image Credit | Brettos & Paula for Almanak

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