On his ground floor M Boutique Hotel in Paphos, the Athenian Upon landed a few days ago, adding another pin to the coastal city where the options for coffee, food and drink are increasing. Bringing the Greek philosophy of the brand to a spacious environment, with modern elegance, which is consistent with the aesthetics of the hotel that houses it, it opens daily, noon and evening, serving brunch-lunch and dinner, with a completely different philosophy on the menu. A key asset and guarantee for the success of the project, the Michelin-starred and co-owner of the Athenian Upon, chef Grigoris Kikis, who personally supervised the space, the kitchen and the menu.
At brunch, the kitchen moves between comfort and creativity, with several popular options and healthy versions of the dishes we are used to enjoying at these times of the day. Dishes that stand out are eggs Benedict with velvety hollandaise, Croque madame and eggs with smoked salmon, Avocado toast with poached egg and crispy textures, fruit salad, pancakes and Pain Perdu, with brioche, chocolate praline, fruit and waffle flakes.
The dinner develops in a more complex field of taste, where Kikis unfolds his talent and culinary identity, which has highlighted him as one of the most charismatic Greek chefs of his generation. In the first courses, the Beef Tartare with Gruyere, Capers and Shallot moves precisely between intensity and balance, while the Cappelletti with Mushrooms, Gruyere and Tarragon show the mastery of the dough and the subtlety of the herbal aromas. In the more comfort but technically prepared dishes, the Orzo Carbonara with poached egg, bacon and parmesan redefines a classic idea with a Greek twist, as does the Calamari with fregola, kale and lime. Of particular interest is the import of Cypriot products, with a typical example being Halloumi with tomato, pepper and bergamot, where the cheese acquires a new dimension through acidity and aromatic freshness. In the selections and selected, quality cuts of meat with options in garnishes and accompaniments that work complementary, without unnecessary tensions, maintaining the balance.
3 Alkmenis, Paphos, 99 370726.
