Once you’re past the black,tinted-glass limousines at the front (enough to accommodate half the CIA),and past the foyer’s lavish Murano chandeliers,you know a five-star plus experience is in store. The heritage-rich Hotel Grande Bretagne occupies prime real estate on prestigious Syntagma Square and the roof garden (eighth floor) offers spellbinding views of the Acropolis. Two cocktail bars present a full list of aperitifs,fine wines,signature cocktails and spirits – but this may be the place for a perfect martini. To nibble (or dine)? A fulsome menu (Greek cheese platter,pasta,croquettes,salads). Dress? Definitely go sparkly. The bar opens at 1pm. Seegbroofgarden.gr
Retire,Ergon House
Ergon House,a heritage building on bustling Metropoleos Street,covers all bases. At ground zero,the Agora is an on-trend foodie market with artisanal foods,plus a butcher,deli,baker,roastery,smart cafe. Above are Scandi-leaning hotel rooms,all pale timbers,angular lines. And finally,the rooftop bar Retire – which seems more laidback LA than downtown Athens – with drinks dispensed from its mini-Airstream-style caravan (“the cocktail truck”),deck chairs and twinkly lights but with olive trees and glimpses of the Acropolis. Try the warm flatbread with fresh toppings. Or order a picnic from the Agora below. Greek wines,artisanal beers and cocktails. Opens at 5pm. Seehouse.ergonfoods.com
Picnic Garden,Foundry Suites
Foundry Suites are 12 spacious,industrial-chic hotel suites in a converted … well,foundry. The rooftop bar taps into its industrial provenance – sturdy steel frameworks are topped with light-filtering bamboo lattice. Lush grape vines and wisteria twine around and there’s a swathe of other leafy greens. Order up a picnic platter with regional cheeses,or a wood-fired pizza. The drinks list offers Greek wines (including summer-perfect rosés),beers from micro-breweries and non-alcoholic tipples. If it’s searingly hot,consider a signature Zeus cocktail,an icy mix of gin,elderflower and homemade watermelon soda,while gazing on the Acropolis. Opens at 5pm. Seethefoundrysuitesathens.com
Anglais Athens