In the heart of Athens’ Pangrati neighborhood lies an unassuming restaurant with a profound significance. The name “Cookoovaya,” meaning “owl” in Greek, serves as a homage to the sacred bird of the goddess Athena, symbolizing wisdom and knowledge. The restaurant’s logo, featuring the eyes and beak of an owl, is a visual representation of the city’s cultural heritage and the culinary excellence that awaits within its walls.
Upon entering Cookoovaya, guests are greeted by a modern reception area, complete with a floor-to-ceiling wine fridge that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality. The menu, titled “Apheresis,” reflects a culinary philosophy centered around traditional techniques that extract and highlight the natural quality and flavors of Greece’s finest ingredients. Offering a blend of land and sea delicacies, Cookoovaya prides itself on utilizing every part of the ingredients, from “nose-to-tail” and “root-to-stalk” cooking.
Opting for the Chef’s recommendations, diners are treated to a journey of flavors and textures that embody the essence of Greek cuisine. From the delicate dorade royale carpaccio to the mouth-watering scallops on smoked eggplant puree, each dish is a testament to the chef’s creativity and skill. The Greek salad with unique feta from the Arkadia region and the spinach pie with wild greens and chard showcase the restaurant’s dedication to preserving tradition while adding a modern twist.
As the meal progresses, guests are introduced to a myriad of dishes, each more delightful than the last. The octopus on grilled bread, tarama made with white fish roe, and spring beans steamed with heirloom tomato showcase the simplicity and freshness of Greek cuisine. The Ambracian prawns and catch of the day prepared in various traditional styles highlight the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing regional flavors with a touch of elegance.
Ending the meal on a sweet note, guests are treated to indulgent desserts that pay homage to Greek culinary traditions. The bougatsa, a crunchy phyllo pastry with vanilla cream and cinnamon ice cream, and the pear tarte tatin with butterscotch and vanilla ice cream are a fitting end to a memorable dining experience. Chef owner Periklis Koskinas’s dedication to simplicity and quality shines through in every bite, offering diners a taste of Greece’s rich culinary heritage.
A Commitment to Excellence
With a lively atmosphere and attentive service, Cookoovaya exudes a sense of warmth and hospitality that is synonymous with Greek culture. The open-plan kitchen, visible to diners, adds a touch of excitement as guests witness the culinary magic happening before their eyes. Celebrating its tenth year, Cookoovaya continues to uphold its commitment to wisdom and tradition, delivering dishes that embody the essence of Greek cuisine with every plate.
Cookoovaya is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary sanctuary where tradition meets innovation, and where wisdom is infused into every dish. From the symbolism of the owl to the meticulous preparation of each meal, Cookoovaya offers a dining experience like no other, inviting guests to embark on a gastronomic journey through the rich tapestry of Greek cuisine.
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