The Daily Diary of a Wandering Restaurateur
May 20 - Why Don't We Do it In the Road?
When we got down from the Acropolis, the only thing that was on anyone's mind was finding a very cold beer! The rain had started again but we found a dry spot in the street behind the church in Monastraki Square. The setting was pleasant, the beer icy cold but the food was disappointing. We were also hit on by a few street vendors.
This particular woman was relentlessly peddling tablecloths. We watched her work one table for nearly 20 minutes, lking away several times but always returning for another try. I guess she sensed that the woman was weakening. Then she came over and gave her best pitch to Rick (who was NOT weakening!) No sale but some interesting street theater.
It was, however, an unwanted intrusion and I am surprised that the restaurant owners allow it to continue. Maybe they feel they can't fight it, maybe it is cultural but you don't have to watch the diners' reactions very long to see that the practice is not appreciated. As a conscientious owner devoted to creating happy guests, it seems obvious that you should step in and stop the practice, at least on your property. If not, who is running your business?
After watching the Acropolis light up, we headed into the Psiris neighborhood just behind the hotel to see what we could find. We had to walk down a long dark alley to get over there and were starting to wonder if we had made a serious mistake when we turned a corner and burst out into a full-blown street scene.
The tavernas were packed, there was a low grade roar from all the conversation and we realized we had once again stumbled into the Athens that most tourists never find. With dozens of places to choose from, we were drawn to one particular place, I think primarily because it was the only one that was so well lit. (Take note: this is the reason I beat on you to buy clear lights every Christmas season!)
The place gave off a good energy and most of the outside tables were literally set up in the street. It made for an inviting sort of party feeling ... but you did have to be careful before you pulled your chair too far back lest you suddenly find yourself on the hood of a taxi!
© 2007 Restaurant Doctor
[