Nestled at the foot of the sacred rock of the Acropolis, along the pedestrian street of Astiggos, with breathtaking views of the Parthenon and the Temple of Hephaestus, stands the neoclassical mansion housing Makris Athens. This flagship restaurant of the luxury Domes Resorts group borrows its name from ancient Corfu, which was once called “Makris” or “Drepani” (sickle) due to its distinctive shape. In September 2023, the Domes group made a bold and ambitious move, opening Makris Athens as an independent restaurant. With the goal of claiming a leading role in Athens’ competitive culinary scene, the restaurant achieved this ambition in the most striking way by earning a Michelin star in just 15 months.

A Space of Elegance and History

Every step within Makris Athens offers a journey through time, with prominent ancient Greek references connecting the restaurant to the sacred atmosphere of its surrounding landscape. Sculptor Konstantinos Valais, also known as VALAES, adorns the tables with golden olive tree sculptures, while subtle nods to Ancient Greece are woven into details like the napkin rings. The minimalist, Doric-inspired table settings feature marble square tables that echo an understated, timeless sophistication.

The sense of awe deepens as diners descend to the second and lower level of the restaurant. Here, the tables rest on a glass floor that protects and showcases excavations dating back to the 7th century BC, creating an environment of extraordinary beauty and historical grandeur.

Chef Petros Dimas: A Visionary in Greek Cuisine

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Petros Dimas, who grew up in Athens but carries roots from Northern Epirus. After stints in renowned restaurants like Hytra and Varoulko, Chef Dimas moved abroad, gaining valuable experience at London’s Aquavit and working alongside Jason Atherton at the Michelin-starred Pollen Street Social.

At Makris Athens, Dimas brings his vision to life—a celebration of Greek gastronomy that is approachable yet refined, maintaining technical and aesthetic precision. His cuisine strikes a balance between complex, sophisticated flavors and a genuine connection to Greece’s culinary heritage. The chef’s creations showcase exceptional technique, vibrant presentations, and a focus on elevating local ingredients.

The Menu: Greek Heritage on a Plate

The menu at Makris Athens reflects the rich culinary history of Greece, drawing heavily on the exceptional produce from the restaurant’s organic farm in Ancient Corinth. The tasting menus, aptly named Genesis, Utopia, and Physis, offer 9-, 11-, and vegetarian courses respectively, each designed to immerse diners in Chef Dimas’ unique culinary narrative.

One standout dish, “The Bouquet from the Garden”, features over 15 aromatic herbs and edible flowers tied together in a crunchy bundle, accompanied by pear pearls and a hint of aged vinegar. This dish embodies freshness, simplicity, and depth. Another highlight is the mushroom and chestnut cappuccino, paired with a flaky brioche feuilletée filled with truffle mayonnaise—an elegant interplay of textures and earthy flavors.

The evolution of the menu includes refined dishes like sea bass cooked with its scales intact, complemented by farm-grown greens, smoked pork, steamed mussels, and shrimp in a bisque infused with fish stock and squid ink. Each plate showcases the chef’s ability to marry the vibrancy of local ingredients with masterful techniques, creating dishes that are both rooted in Greek tradition and modern innovation.

The bread course—a homemade wheat Zea bread served with a curated selection of eight rare extra virgin olive oils—is a signature moment of the dining experience. Desserts by pastry chef Giorgos Tzanakis continue to evolve, offering playful surprises with references to Ancient Greece, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

A Team That Matches the Restaurant’s Ambitions

Under the leadership of Restaurant Manager Eleni Arvaniti, the team at Makris Athens operates like a well-oiled machine, delivering service worthy of its Michelin recognition. Head Sommelier Michalis Kapranos, who has experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in Belgium and Switzerland, curates a wine list of over 300 labels from around the world, ensuring that each pairing enhances the culinary journey.

A Michelin Star in Record Time

Earning a Michelin star is a feat in itself, but achieving it within 15 months of opening is a testament to the bold vision, creativity, and dedication of the Makris Athens team. This recognition brings both prestige and the responsibility to maintain the high standards that have defined this restaurant as one of Athens’ culinary gems.

Location: Astiggos 10 & Ermou 119, Thiseio, Athens
Phone: +30 216 0047777