Our first day in Athens, my daughter and I walked part way up the long, winding road of the Acropolis. Not intending to reach the summit, but merely to stretch our legs, we ended up tired, hungry, and a bit geographically challenged.

We were walking through the close, narrow streets of the Plaka, in an ever downward trajectory, making our way back to the city proper. We knew we'd find the city below, eventually, but the light began to fade and our hunger increased. We were motivated to find our way out.

Suddenly, we came across this small restaurant as we passed a Greek Church and descended a flight of stone stairs. Set amongst the two-story residential apartments, it looked authentic, clean, and interesting. After a very brief review of the menu, we decided to give it a try. And I'm glad we did. Scholarchio Ouzepi Kouklis ended up being one of the best dining experiences we enjoyed together during our entire trip!

We were shown a seat under the canopy where we could watch the street and the failing light. The menu placed before us was printed on a rustic, wooden tablet. While a bit awkward, it was certainly different from any menu I'd held before. The cover was hand-painted, and the interior a clearly written overview of menu options. (Foolishly, I neglected to take a photo of the actual food offerings listed!)

We decided to try the Dinner for Two, served tapas style, which in eluded wine, bread, and five choices from the menu. Dessert was also included.

Putting in our order took a few moments as we hemmed and hawed over the numerous choices. As we waited for the service to begin, we enjoyed our rest, the view, and the anticipation of our first authentic Greek meal.

Our waiter brought out their house wine in a simple 750ml carafe and we quickly poured and tasted. A delicate, light wine; tart like cranberry, but refreshing after our long walk through the city. The color was a pale cranberry, matching the taste. Almost a rose` but not as sweet.

Bread soon followed. A hearty crust, the interior was moist and fluffy. It took all we had not to gorge on the bread as our appetite was fully engaged from our exertions.

Fortunately, our waiter brought out the Greek Salad to distract us from the bread. The salad was so fresh; all of the vegetables crisp and delectable. While I have never been a fan of Feta cheese, this salad completely transformed my opinion of it. The feta was firm, salty, and delicious! The salad was simple, but so delicious and healthy, that we destroyed it in no time.

Sweet 'n Sour pork was the first entree. More sweet than sour, the pork was tender and delicious. Slightly charred, the light coating of fresh herbs on top served to make this dish quite savory after the fresh salad and salty feta.

Next up was a Greek specialty, Spinach Pie. With a delicate, flakey crust, the spinach interior was expertly cooked. Subtle in flavor, it was expertly accompanied with the house wine. By now, we were a bit worried that our eyes would outlast our appetites!

Next to arrive was a plate of meatballs. This was another simple, but delectable dish. The meatballs were sweet, moist and meaty. The meatballs bathed in a mild tomato sauce that complimented the mild, meaty taste.

Tucked between the pork and meatballs, a side dish of fried eggplant was served. While I was not as fond of this dish, I find eggplant rather bland in general, and not a fault of the cook.

Finally, desert. This was the Crown Jewel of the dinner! Orange Pie! I have had dreams about this dish for weeks following my trip. Orange Pie is actually cake-like in its consistency. Super moist, it was infused with a sweet citrus syrup than made the cake drip with deliciousness. Crowned with orange peel, this treat capped our meal in regal style!

By now, the light had failed and small lights around the front of the restaurant blinked on amongst the vines. Streetlights turned on and served to illuminate the narrow streets with a fun, inviting light for our walk home. Such a cute little restaurant, and fantastic food, our one regret leaving Greece was that we did not return for a second meal there.

All in all, this was such an unexpected, but wonderful experience, deep in the heart of the Plaka. If you find yourself in Athens, make your way to Scholarchio Ouzepi Kouklis for a great dinner. Easy on your wallet and delicious in your mouth!

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