Lotte cafe-bistrot — Restaurant in Athens

We decided to end our holiday on a Saturday night with a drink at what looked like a picturesque little bistro tucked away in central Athens. Unfortunately, the experience was anything but pleasant.

A few minutes after we had sat down at an available (and unreserved) table, and while waiting to be served, we were approached by a waiter who, rather than asking politely, demanded that we get up. He explained he had intended the table for another group inside and told us to move to one of two other tables tucked in the dark corners of the alley.

Had he asked nicely, we might have considered moving, though it is already unusual and rude to ask customers to vacate a table. Instead, his tone was abrupt and dismissive. When we pointed out that the alternative tables were poorly suited for us, and that one would actually suit the larger group better, his response was essentially that he didn’t care if we left altogether.

This is exactly the kind of attitude that drives visitors—and no doubt locals too—away from establishments that could otherwise be charming. Service matters, and here it was not only lacking but outright rude.

A real shame, especially since the café is named Lotte, after the owner’s appreciation of Charlotte Brontë. Sadly, there was nothing of British - or Greek - hospitality or charm to be found here.

Be warned: not...

I rarely leave reviews – especially negative ones – but in this case I felt the need to share my experience.

The large number of highly positive reviews raised my expectations, but sadly, my visit didn’t match them. I ordered two slices of bread with avocado and tomato – which arrived without any seasoning or creativity. A few plain tomato slices were placed on the side, but the dish felt uninspired and bland overall.

The cappuccino I had was average at best – neither particularly rich nor memorable.

Most disappointing, though, was the atmosphere. The staff gave off a subtle sense of disinterest, as if guests were slightly bothersome rather than welcome. And I say this as someone who had no special requests and simply ordered a standard breakfast.

Overall, not terrible – but not worth the...

We stopped by after dinner on the way back to our AirBNB. We ordered a couple of beers a wine and a whiskey. The waiter was the first rude service person we have encountered in Athens. He told us we should learn Greek before we come to the country. This was right off the bat not after any sort of disagreement or misunderstanding. He served us what we ordered but was short and hostile with every interaction. We are a group that is fortunate to travel relatively frequently all over the world. We are not high maintenance and don't expect servers to know English. I post this review so other non-Greek speakers can find one of the 100's of other welcoming and great places to stop for food or drink when in the area. This place does not provide a true representation of Greek...