There's a scarcity of Greek cuisine in Bangkok’s food scene, compared to its other Mediterranean compatriots. There’s Avra, the first Greek restaurant in Bangkok, which is relatively famous among people in-the-know who want to eat authentic Aegean fare in a rustic and slightly dated taverna.
John Yiannis Gamvros, a second generation restaurateur from the family that owns a Greek restaurant in Sydney called Aesop's, is looking to introduce the edgier side of Greece in Bangkok with an unconventional Greek eatery that turns sacred Mount Olympus into an Athenian party district.
Moving away from blue and white Santorinistyle interiors that’s typically seen in Greek restaurants, Aesop’s evokes a totally different image by filling up a spacious dimly-lit hall with neon-lit signs and long communal tables that are perfect for celebratory meals. Soon to open is the outdoor terrace, where brunch will be served in a setting that’s inspired by sun-drenched Mykonos.
Start off your meal with the mezze platter, which serves nine items in a tray for you to choose from. The delicious pita bread and sesame bagel (B100) can be paired with dips like the creamy taramasalata (salted fish roe, B100) and the chunky melitzanosalata (smoked eggplant dip, B100). The flavorful baby octopus in red wine vinegar and olive oil (B200) is also a good starter, as well as the cheese- and spinach-filled spanakopita (B160). For mains, the kofta (minced lamb and beef skewers, B250) is a tasty choice, and best enjoyed with Aesop’s soft pita bread and and tzatziki (cucumber and yogurt dip, B250). The moussaka (B350) is also outstanding, lusciously layering minced beef with eggplants, potato and bechamel sauce.
Aesop’s also takes things seriously when it comes to booze, focusing on Greek liquor such as ouzo and tsipouro (pomace brandy). These potent spirits make their way into drinks like the Acropolis (a tangy drink that mixes tsipouro with thyme-infused gin, agave and pistachio, B280). Greek coffee, meanwhile, is added to Colossus, a bourbon-based drink with a hint of coconut (B350).
The fun experience reaches its peak with a plate-smashing dance and cries of “Opa,” the celebratory expression shouted by the Greeks at every chance they get. Overall, Aesop’s manages to make Greek fare more approachable—and fun.