Monday, June 25, 2012

Eating out 2012 - update

Well, a lot can happen during a year, a whole life can change, newcomers can bring us new experiences and alter our beliefs or our plans. As you know, we have had new partners on www.naxos-apartments.de but it seems we also have new arrivals on the island in terms of food and entertainment.

The first new arrival worth mentioning is actually an italian wine bar - bistro L' Osteria, run by Italians. They opened their gates last December, in a tastefully renovated old house in the heart of Chora. Dolly the chef cooperated with Lucas the restaurateur and have created a place which combines quality delicatessen, some Italian and Greek wines (not only bottled) and a warm atmosphere (plus a projector for showing all the major Euro matches!). They change their menu almost daily. Tip: I celebrated my birthday in L' Osteria and not only did Dolly prepare us a Tiramisu for the occasion, but she also told us about the origins of the famous italian sweet.

A few meters further away, we have another new arrival, a Tapas/Spanish restaurant, Anda Jaleo serving tapas, paellas, pasta and offering breathtaking views over the harbor at sunset. Try their Veal tenderloin with blue cheese sauce. Negative: they only serve bottled wines at the usual restaurant prices.

And what about the old restaurants, I hear you ask. Well, they are all still there, ready to welcome you. Well, I was pleasantly surprised at the small taverna at Mikri Vigla beach, they changed some personnel and they are extremely friendly this year. It is a nice choice if you spend the day at the beach and need something to bite.

- Apostolis has a wide range of dishes (and prices), their service is friendly and the quality of the food is standard, even when they are full. My personal best, Apostolis Escalope!

- Metaxy mas found their pace and all dishes are fresh and tasty. Octopus on the grill or even fish are a big hit. And by far, the cheapest restaurant in town.

I was also happy to "discover" Manolis Garden, a few meters further from Metaxy mas. Friendly service, a nice garden (obviously) and their rabbit stifado is among their most tasty dishes. Extra bonus, Manolis' son may give you instructions to a secret beach on the north side of the island!

If you explore the mainland and the antiquities in the area, then it is definitely worth it to walk by Sangri - and have your meal at Johny's tavern. They offer an extended menu, the only tavern on the island certified by the Greek National Tourism Organisation as serving Greek cuisine.

In the meantime, here is your chance to learn a few things about the Greek gastronomy and even try some basic recipes!

PS Irrelevant, but don't order complicated cocktails anywhere, you will be disappointed. Just stick to the basics. 

Friday, June 15, 2012

Updates on Naxos hotels and apartments this summer

I came back from Naxos for a few days and I am still not sure where to start from! I have hundreds of new photos to show you, I have new shops and activities to recommend, I have secret tips to share with you.

At the moment, I can only say that Naxos in May and in June is another world, the nature is blossoming, the air is still fresh in the evenings and most beaches are empty - their crystal waters take you to heaven. Take a look at some photos from the island and I'll get back to you with all the updates in the next days.

In the meantime, we have some special offers on Naxos hotels:

  • Book Eleni Villas in June and July and get one day for free!  Located in the village of Agidia, this family accommodation (2 appartments and 1 studio) provides access to Naxos trekking routes and is at 5 min. drive from Naxos Chora. Don't miss Eleni's hospitality and barbecues!
  • Check new prices offered by Simos Hotel in Agios Georgios, at just 150 meters from the beach
  • Check our new very competitive prices at Bourgos, right next to the castle in the venetian old town of Naxos (Chora) - extra bonus, an amazing terrace view over the port and Portara