Just a few steps from the Eiffel Tower, down a quiet street in 24 Rue Jean Nicot, a familiar scent pulled us in — like an invisible thread. The aroma of Greek cuisine: fresh olive oil, oregano, warm bread. That’s how Apollon restaurantwelcomed us — with a smile and the warmth of a family-run tavern… in the heart of Paris.
We were invited by Panos Tsiaras, a successful dentist from Trikala who now lives and works in Paris (read more here). His enthusiastic recommendation led us straight to Apollon — and he was absolutely right. From the very first moment, we felt the genuine Greek hospitality and a comforting sense of home in every detail.
Plates started arriving one by one: a classic Greek salad with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a thick slice of feta dusted with oregano. Then, freshly baked cheese pies, golden and aromatic. Finally, gyros with tzatziki, served with crispy fries, warm pita, and sliced tomatoes. Pure Greek flavors in the heart of the French capital.
Greek heart in the city of light
Apollon’s owner, Aristotelis Stamkopoulos, is a third-generation Greek with roots in Kozani. His family’s culinary story began decades ago when his grandfather opened their first Greek restaurant in the Latin Quarter. In 1989, they relocated to the current neighborhood, giving Apollon a fresh start — and since then, it has become a beloved spot for Greeks in Paris, as well as French locals who adore authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
“Greece is always in my heart and mind,” Aristotelis tells us. “I love Paris — I was born here — but I never forget where I come from. I carry Greece with me every day: through my work, my food, my values.”
Locals, expats & a shared table
Aristotelis shares insights about both his French and Greek customers:
“Greeks in Paris are fully integrated. You can’t really tell them apart from the French. It’s not like in Belgium or Germany, where Greek communities are tightly knit. Here, the connections are looser.”
Still, many Greeks come to Apollon seeking a taste of home. And the French? They honor Greece through food. What amazed us was hearing them greet the staff in Greek: “Kalimera!”, “Efharisto!” — with genuine warmth.
“Some even ask me to teach them Greek words,” Aristotelis laughs. “They want to connect, to participate. Many have visited Santorini or Crete. They carry those memories and bring them to my restaurant.”
Sweet endings & a Greek spirit
And just when we thought the meal was over — out came the desserts: galaktoboureko, baklava with crisp phyllo and rich walnut filling, hand-rolled kataifi, and a scoop of homemade ice cream. All made with love, all full of memories — of mothers, grandmothers, and a homeland never forgotten.
As we left, we didn’t just feel full — we felt moved. We had experienced something deeper: a small Greek celebration in the heart of Paris. A place where food, culture, and soul come together with elegance and authenticity.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to feel a little bit closer to Greece, make sure to stop by 24 Rue Duret. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere. And who knows… you might just spot famous Greek TV presenter Nikos Aliagas, a loyal Apollon customer.
📍 Apollon restaurant
24 Rue Jean Nicot, 75116 Paris
🌐 apollon-paris.fr
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