Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens, with a fascinating legend tied to the goddess Athena. Atop this hill in the Kolonaki neighborhood lies the Orizontes Lycabettus restaurant, offering stunning views of Athens. It’s open for both lunch and dinner, and booking ahead is advisable, especially during peak seasons. While the hill is not very tall at 277 meters, the hot temperatures made us opt for the funicular ride up, and we walked down afterward. The funicular drops you close to the restaurant, which is also near a bar, a small square, a viewing area, and the charming Greek Orthodox Chapel of St. George.
The menu at Orizontes Lycabettus is Mediterranean-inspired, featuring high-quality ingredients from across Greece. For starters, we had delicious grilled shrimps served with a mixed seasonal salad and herbs, enhanced by extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, the stir-fried mushrooms with goat’s cheese cream sauce and potato chips stood out for their delightful texture and flavor combination. Another starter, the seasonal greens salad with tomato, orange, spring onions, and a cream cheese dressing, was well-received, though I didn’t try it myself.
For the main courses, the lobster with linguine in a homemade bisque with fresh tomato and basil was the highlight, bursting with rich flavors. The rack of lamb with a pistachio crust from Aegina, lamb jus, poached pear, and potatoes also seemed very appealing. One of our group chose a traditional Greek salad instead of a main course, featuring feta from Arcadia, known for its top-notch agricultural produce, capers, and rusks.
The celebrated chef Michael Zacharis, born in Piraeus, has an impressive background working in numerous prestigious restaurants and hotels in Greece, including the Radisson Blu Park Hotel and the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel. His expertise is evident in his skillful blend of Greek culinary traditions with international influences from Spain and Peru.
Dining on the outdoor terrace at Orizontes Lycabettus, if weather permits, is highly recommended for its breathtaking panoramic views of Athens, the Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea. The indoor seating is also comfortable, adorned with crisp white linen, providing a refined and tranquil ambiance perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Dinner costs at Orizontes Lycabettus range from €15-€25 for starters and salads, €27 to €51 for mains, and around €9.50 for desserts.
In conclusion, the remarkable views from Orizontes Lycabettus alone make it worth a visit. Complementing these vistas is a delightful culinary experience that highlights the best of Greek cuisine. If you visit, I highly recommend the lobster with linguine to savor the full extent of the chef’s expertise.