133 Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, Thessaloniki At Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, on a corner steeped in over a century of history, Epavli Marokkou opens its doors daily to offer an experience that blends its aristocratic past with a modern take on hospitality. The neoclassical building, constructed in 1906 with its imposing architecture and three distinctive interior levels—once a private residence, now a listed monument and public space—has, since 2018, become one of the city’s most beloved cultural and entertainment venues. It draws people of all ages, radiating the charm of a bygone era and the vibrant energy of modern Thessaloniki.
Built in 1906 by Austrian national and insurance agent Ioannis Marokkos, the epavli was sold in 1919 to the Bourla family, transferred to state ownership in 1951, and declared a listed monument in 1985, becoming part of Thessaloniki’s cultural heritage.
In 1986, it was transformed into the “Panselinos” café-bar, later repurposed again—at one point serving as a traffic police department—until it was finally given its current form and, arguably, its finest identity. In 2018, the architectural firm CAN Studio undertook its renovation to create today’s multifunctional cultural and dining space, Epavli Marokkou.
Three floors of history, two courtyards that captivate
The subtly lit façade sets the tone for a journey back in time. Inside, the three levels each offer a different take on the overall experience:
- The ground floor features an open kitchen
- The middle floor hosts live jazz and funk music
- The top level comes alive with DJ sets that keep the energy going late into the night
The space’s minimalist aesthetic allows the original architectural elements to breathe and stand out. High ceilings adorned with decorative plasterwork, ornate moldings, large windows, stone floors, and wooden details create a setting that feels both familiar and grand.
If the indoor spaces exude elegance and minimal sophistication, the two courtyards are Epavli Marokkou’s “secret weapon”:
- The front courtyard, lively and open, connects directly to the avenue, pulsing with the rhythm of a vibrant bar.
- The back courtyard, lush and hidden, feels like a countryside escape—perfect for relaxed meals, wine, and quiet conversations.
A menu for every hour of the day
Epvli Marokkou’s menu flows across two phases.
Start your day with brunch, featuring delicious and filling options like Thessaloniki-style sesame bagel with smoked salmon, Chicken pancakes, Croque madame, French toast, Fresh juices, specialty coffees, and teas.
Then move on to lunch and dinner, with a selection that includes comfort staples such as Club sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas
As well as more creative dishes like Oven-roasted pork belly, Ribeye steak with pepper sauce, Chicken in parmesan sauce, Gourmet pastas and flavorful risottos.
The cellar experience – a ritual of taste
The extensive wine cellar is a destination in itself. Nestled in a space clad in stone and wood, it houses an impressive collection of wines, mainly from Greek vineyards, as well as premium whiskeys and rums.
Here, where time seems to stand still, guests are invited into a ritual of aromas and flavors, with the option to dine right in the cellar.
Cocktails that tell the story of the Epavli
No experience at Epavli Marokkou would be complete without its signature cocktails.
The extensive and imaginative list—updated seasonally—features drinks inspired by the history of the building and the people who lived within it.
Every sip is a sensory journey into the past, infused with reverence and creativity.
Some highlights include:
- Marokko Chronicles – white rum and homemade kumquat soda
- Sonata – El Jimador tequila and smoked orange liqueur
- 1905 – gin, mahleb, pistachio, and mastiha liqueur
- Viennese Affair – gin, lemon verbena, champagne fermentation, and surprise ingredients
From classic recipes with modern twists to daring flavor combinations, each glass tells a story—and we promise, the cocktail menu alone will captivate you from start to finish.
Even as a dining venue, Epavli Marokkou remains a cultural landmark thanks to the dedication of the team behind it.
Spanning approximately 1,500 m², it serves as a meeting place where culture meets cuisine, architecture meets entertainment, and history meets modern experience.
Its magic? It suits every mood, every hour, every season.
Tip 1:
Brunch is served daily from 10:00 to 15:00, with lunch and dinner available from 15:00 to midnight.
Tip 2:
Reservations are highly recommended, regardless of the day or time—Epavli Marokkou is in high demand and often full!
Tip 3:
Cocktail lovers—you can also check for allergen information in the cocktail menu so you know exactly what’s in your drink.
