OVIO Star Meal

Michelin one star OVIO was a recommendation from a local Athenian. It did not disappoint. Run by celebrity chef Panos Ioannidis, this restaurant is, without doubt, an excellent choice for those exploring the busy streets of central Athens. In this spacious setting, divided into three dining areas (one on the ground floor, a few tables upstairs, plus a pleasant terrace) the chef offers a menu based around Italian cuisine. This includes homemade pastas, such as the delicious Gnocchi with a velvety sauce, diced pear, grated walnuts and finished with gorgonzola in two textures. These are complemented by meat dishes and pizzas cooked in the wood-fired oven, plus an extensive selection of Italian wines and a balcony where guests can savour an array of impressive cocktails.

Located in the bustling Plaka neighborhood, OVIO offers outdoor seating that allows diners to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while indulging in their favorite dishes. The menu is relatively short but offers a solid selection of Italian classics with a modern twist.

We ordered the classics, including caccio e pepe & margherita- our usual acid tests for ANY Italian worldwide.

Happy to report that the pizza was good at 7/10 - fluffy , light , almost Eddie Murakami neopolitan levels.

The pasta was also respectful at 7/10 - authentic rendition of a classic. The peppery bite came through on a chilly Athenian afternoon.

The one star is well deserved.