Eleni's box

In a winery of 1812 full of memories came in 1995 the Eleni Theodorou, -Tinian in origin- from Athens to Teno with her family to build her nest.

This box, which was once a hangout for food and inspiration for travelers, writers and artists, which in the 60s and 70s was a patsatsidiko, a shop with history and memories - captured on the wall by groups of people who drank their wine in the interwar period or by figures of old men with little trays holding baskets with local materials - so here he set up the Box of Eleni, a magical place!

The store, two long and narrow rooms joined by an arch, the walls of Tinian stone with the internal windows, historical testimonies and objects (peppers and spices, spoons and pots hanging from the ceiling, musical instruments and fireplaces) with the personal taste of Eleni create a nostalgic atmosphere. And among them, for 20 years winter-summer (I always especially appreciate the shops that are not only addressed to summer tourists) Eleni with a smile always on her lips, to serve and share her experiences.

But also in the downhill alley in front of her shop the environment is beautiful thanks to the hydrangeas and flowers that adorn the terraces and corners.

From appetizers and food are served that are reminiscent of the cuisine of the countryside, the cuisine of our childhood, the flavors of old cooking. Cabbage stuffing (Eleni is proud of them), bunny stew, chickpeas with pilaf, lamb with thyme, beef lemonade, cod garlic. Of course, there are also local recipes with fennel pancakes, fried sun-dried tomatoes, arnadkies (wild mushrooms), artichoke pie, oily artichokes (classic taste to lick your fingers!) stuffed, and local cheeses. If the weather helps, red mullets or whatever other seafood is served. The historic tripe and fish soup remain the emblematic specialties of the store!

Eleni's box in Teno - open all year round, a refuge of great flavors and human warmth - I confess I loved it.