At Citron Patisserie & Cafe, at 35 Agnostou Stratiotou Street in Polichni, lemon lies at the heart of a distinctive sweet philosophy and story. This charming patisserie opened its doors in August 2021, founded by Ariadni Pylarinou and George Oganesian, with the aim of bringing something different to Thessaloniki’s culinary scene. Their vision is built on exceptional ingredients, refined techniques, distinctive recipes and a genuine passion for their craft.

French patisserie meets the flavours of the French Riviera, particularly those of Menton, a town renowned for its lemon-growing tradition. Influences from southern Italy and the world of limoncello further shape the identity of this welcoming spot.

Pastry chef Ariadni Pylarinou has devoted much of her professional career to the art of patisserie. She trained under Stelios Parliaros, gained experience in various roles within the industry, honed her skills in France and Italy, and attended specialist seminars in Paris, Rome and Copenhagen. Her travels have also played an important part in her development, allowing her to draw inspiration from the flavours and techniques of different places and incorporate them into her own creative approach.

Small-batch production with a focus on quality ingredients

Everything at Citron is handmade, with production kept deliberately small so that each creation passes through Ariadni’s hands. Fresh eggs, butter, unprocessed fruit, premium Belgian chocolate and organic, unwaxed lemons are among the key ingredients underpinning the workshop’s philosophy.

Premixes, artificial colourings and flavourings, modified starch and preservatives are avoided, allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine through. Fruit and other ingredients are selected according to the seasons, giving each dessert its own distinctive character. This approach is reflected in the display cabinet, where a carefully curated selection of signature creations and time-honoured favourites appears in both contemporary and vintage-inspired interpretations.

French patisserie with distinctive signatures

Among Citron’s creations is the Paris-Brest Noisette, featuring freshly baked choux pastry, a crisp topping, hazelnut mousseline and feuilletine praline. The Menton, meanwhile, combines lemon and passion fruit in a dessert inspired by the French town of the same name.

The Profiterole Origine pairs choux pastry with vanilla crème pâtissière and dark chocolate ganache, while the tarte au citron features a crisp almond sablé base, lemon crémeux and whipped white chocolate ganache.

The selection also includes cheesecake, crème brûlée and cinnamon and chocolate rolls, with chocolate naturally providing another favourite source of inspiration. Among the ideas currently taking shape are desserts inspired by the patisserie classics of the 1990s, including retro-style chocolate cake and almond pastries.

Healthier treats and no-added-sugar options

Citron’s distinctive approach extends beyond traditional French patisserie. A significant part of its range is dedicated to products with no added sugar. Around 99% of these products are sugar-free, using organic coconut sugar, maple syrup and Medjool dates as sweetening ingredients instead.

This philosophy inspires a selection of bars, chocolates and biscuits, alongside gluten-free options such as the Italian-inspired Caprese tart, made with hazelnut and chocolate, and the Amalfi tart, featuring almond and lemon.

Seasonal ingredients are also transformed into freshly made daily treats. In autumn, for instance, pumpkin may take centre stage in a cake or bring a seasonal twist to a classic fruit tart.

Handmade brunch with a comfort-food touch

More recently, Citron has opened a new chapter with its brunch offering, developed in collaboration with a chef. The focus remains on comforting, handmade food, with dishes such as traditional Greek rusks topped with tomato and oregano (riganada), kagianas or strapatsada (Greek-style scrambled eggs with tomato), Croque Madame, and a handmade bagel, known as the Holly Bagel, filled with Florina pepper sauce and bacon. A particularly tempting option is French toast made with tsoureki, the traditional Greek sweet bread, and crème brûlée.

Coffee, lemonade and aperitivo

George Oganesian oversees the coffee offering and aperitivo selection, with Citron collaborating with Samba Coffee Roasters. Its 100% Arabica espresso is available in different varieties, offering plenty of possibilities for pairing with the patisserie’s sweet creations.

Cold brew coffee is another highlight, prepared and bottled on-site in a recyclable aluminium can. For the afternoon, there is also a distinctive coffee-based aperitivo infused with spices, chocolate and vanilla. Retail packs are available, too, for those who would like to enjoy Citron’s coffee at home or at the office. And, of course, the homemade lemonade remains one of the venue’s most characteristic offerings.

Seasonal creations and bespoke orders

New products are introduced throughout the year, both in the patisserie range and in the bakery and brunch selection, inspired by the seasons and the team’s creativity.

Festive occasions hold a special place at Citron. At Christmas, the selection includes melomakarona-inspired mousse desserts, Mont Blanc tarts, festive logs in a variety of flavours and the distinctive Viennese-style vasilopita, the traditional Greek New Year’s cake. At Easter, freshly made sourdough tsoureki and handmade chocolate eggs take centre stage, while homemade Glühwein adds a warming touch during the winter months.

The workshop also creates bespoke orders, including cakes and vasilopita with no added sugar, tailored to individual requirements and special occasions. Wedding cakes, christening treats and desserts for other celebrations can also be arranged.

For further information and added convenience, citronpastry.gr serves as the online home of Citron Patisserie & Cafe. Visitors can order their favourite products online and reserve a table, making it easy to plan a visit to the small, welcoming lounge and enjoy the experience at their leisure.

From lemon and chocolate to seasonal fruit, healthier treats, coffee and brunch, every offering follows the same principle: distinctive products made with authentic ingredients and genuine handmade care. Citron Patisserie & Cafe continues its own sweet journey, bringing a charming little corner of French patisserie to Polichni, filled with the fragrance of lemon and creations that transport the senses.