In Pedion Areos, amidst the vibrant book fairs especially, the air is filled with an unmistakable energy as the crowd flows from every corner. It’s hard to say whether all the passersby are interested in buying books, but the presence of literature is palpable. At the very least, people become familiar with the covers, and perhaps even with the books themselves, as they weave through the stalls.

Nestled at the far end of the park, in the quiet, round square beyond the bookstands, lies «Gardénia». A canteen that has withstood time, a space that pulses with life no matter the season. There’s no passing through here on a late afternoon -especially on weekends- without finding most of the tables occupied. During its busiest moments, such as the Book Publishers’ Association ‘s Book Festival or local fairs, «Gardénia» is filled to the brim, and a charming queue forms, eagerly awaiting a taste of what’s served from the modest trailer-like eatery.

At first glance, it’s nothing more than a simple canteen: a small roof overhead, a few humble tables and chairs. But for those who know, it’s clear that this simplicity holds a special magic -a comfort that only reveals itself to those who have settled in to enjoy the moment.

Its success is not merely due to the fact that it’s the only canteen in the area, nor even its very reasonable prices (everything priced around a euro), but rather because everything it serves is genuinely honest.

The word «honest» has become so overused that it almost loses its weight, but how else can I explain that the snacks, drinks, sodas, coffees, and dishes at «Gardénia» are of such exceptional quality? The cheese pie is undoubtedly one of the finest in Athens, and the service is always gracious. With just a few coins, you can enjoy a cocktail that could easily be crafted by a bartender with stars on his sleeve -or wherever star bartenders wear their accolades.

Throughout the summer, «Gardénia» is as refreshing as, quite literally, a gardenia. The lush greenery of the garden cools the air, a gentle breeze stirs through the trees, and the fact that the tables sit on gravel and earth, rather than concrete, makes all the difference. On those colder days -yes, they do come- «Gardénia» serves the most delightful hot chocolate, excellent coffee, and a few surprisingly delicious dishes. Last Lent, for example, they offered sublime cuttlefish, possibly with spinach -though it's been some time, the memory lingers.

At the end of the day, «Gardénia» is not just a simple canteen; it’s a gathering place - not only for the locals but for artists, celebrities of notable repute, journalists, and writers alike. In some mysterious way, the place has managed to attract a clientele as charming and inviting as the staff themselves.

«Gardénia» Canteen, Pedion Areos, 6980145342.
Open from 9:00 am to 22:30 pm.