Taverna Xinos

The Plaka Cuisines: European

About

Despite the forgivable spelling lapse, Xinos's business card says it best: "In the heart of old Athens there is still a flace where the traditional Greek way of cooking is upheld." Hidden away just off Plaka's main square, where it has been run for over 70 years by the same family, is this wonderful little gem, offering traditional, home-cooked meals specializing in lamb dishes. Try it fricasseed (with lemon sauce) or stewed with pasta (Giouvetsi) or grilled. According to family lore, this taverna is where my grandfather proposed to my grandmother as a strolling duo serenaded them with Greek love songs accompanied by the accordion. Though I am certain it isn't the same duo, a duo still serenades diners nightly with beautiful love songs of a long gone but not quite forgotten era. In warm weather you can dine in the charming tree-lined courtyard; in winter, warm yourself by the coal-burning stove and admire the frescoes.

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