Northern Greece - Greece - page 472

White Tower & Waterfront
West of the White Tower and along the waterfront was modern Thessaloniki's first night-
life hotspot - what remains are mostly glossy and uniform seafront bars, but there are
some interesting places too.
Kafeneion Giasemi CAFE
MAP
( 2315 316 300; Tsopela 4; 11am-2am) This is a beautiful place. The cosy interior
cheerfully blends classic countryside Greece and colourful retro, with space for just a
few tables. Kind young owner Ioanna plays swing and big band. Along with coffees and
drinks, Giasemi offers small mezedhes (the menu entries are carefully handwritten in
pencil). Sometimes there's live music in summer.
Thermaïkos BAR
MAP
( 2310 239 842; www.thermaikos.net ; Leof Nikis 23; 10am-4am) Bars come and go, but
Thermaïkos will be here forever. This waterfront bar-club is best in the cooler months,
when the weather forces people indoors. Then you appreciate its mottled marble
columns, subdued lanterns, elliptical corners and mirrors - an accidental architectural
masterpiece, enlivened by late-night hipsters and the DJ's deep-house beats.
Loxias CAFE
MAP
( 2310 233 925; Isavron 7; 6pm-2am) This evenings-only cafe off Plateia Navarinou is
an old-time steki (hang-out) for educated Greeks, who grapple with philosophy, politics
or literature over ouzo and snacks. It's decorated with wine casks, bursting bookshelves
and historic photos and prints. Romantics can duck the commotion on the back balcony's
table for two, overlooking Roman ruins.
On The Road BAR
MAP
( 2310 271 240; Leof Nikis 61; 10am-3am) This fun waterfront bar is packed with stu-
dents and older folks, and its Latin music and lack of glitz make it more interesting than
other Nikis neighbours.
Kafenai CAFE