We have all seen those beautiful photos of cappuccino with some sort of creative art appearing in the froth of a coffee cup. Little did I know there was such a thing as latte art? I only assumed this was the work of a graphic designer or someone gifted with Photoshop. For years I’ve been seeing these images of latte art emerge on Facebook and more often than not I clicked the like button without a clue what went into it.
Recently on a trip to the ancient ruins of Acropolis I had stopped into a restaurant while in Greece for “My BIG Fat Greek Culinary Tour” to enjoy a quick coffee. The place had such character, lined with tables that had love seats, shaded with a large overhanging canvas shielding you from the sun and views of the famous historic Acropolis. I could sit for hours with the locals and tourists enjoying a
coffee as so many Europeans do. An eccentric man with a handlebar mustache, an apron and a baseball cap waited on me trying to convince me I must try their world famous latte’s. Being I am a coffee enthusiast and love the taste of coffee, not milk, cream or sugar, I ordered my usual, double espresso short. The waiter assured me I was making a mistake not to try their world famous latte’s. He was trying to convince me and I was trying to convince him, I simply don’t like anything in my coffee.
After I finished my espresso and did some people watching I had to get on my way. But a quick visit to the water closet I discovered a display of awards, trophy’s and magazine clippings in frames with an exhibit of the
awards for their latte art. My waiter smiled from ear to ear when he walked by me and had to remind me with a nod and an instant “I told you so” remark. I had to run, introduced myself as Michael Van Horn The Social Chef and my purpose here in Greece. He was as a result, gracious to invite me back so today I revisited this wonderful establishment famous for their latte art and I watched first hand as the world famous performer created a variety of latte art just for me. I’m still not a fan of latte’s but I am
an admirer of the creative talent of latte art. And even though I prefer my coffee black and strong I truly enjoyed the taste of that latte prepared just for me.
If you ever visit the ancient city of Greece I would suggest a visit to the restaurant Athinaion Politeia in Thissio if you enjoy a wonderful latte. They just so happen to be two years in a row world champions for latte art. Perhaps you are like me and prefer only an espresso you will truly enjoy the atmosphere and views of Acropolis while sitting outside this beautiful location. May I suggest the cheesecake with strawberries…it was divine!!
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