In the heart of Thessaloniki, at the intersection of Agias Sofias and Ermou streets, the emblematic “Red House” continues to write history every day, not only in architecture, but also in the gastronomic life of the city. A reference point for 101 years now, bringing behind it all the events and myths that accompany it. Standing out due to its unique architecture, it continues to mature, evolve and upgrade as a place of flavors, which highlights the city’s cuisine. Here the past is united with the present and the future and thus, the “Red House” remains a timeless destination.
Known as the Longos Mansion, the “Red House” was built in 1926 by architect Leonardo Zenari, for the textile industrialist from Naoussa, Grigoris Longos. The building stands out for its red brick facade – from which it takes its name – and for its overall eclectic design, with influences from Art Nouveau, Neo-Byzantine and Gothic architecture, elements that make it unique of its kind. In 1983, the Greek Ministry of Culture declared it a listed monument, while in 2014, the building was purchased and renovated by businessman Ivan Savvidis.
Over the years, the ground floor of the building hosted various businesses, most famously the “Hermes” cafe, which was a meeting point for educators and intellectuals of the city.
Every day, every night, a unique gastronomic experience
Today, the “Red House” is revived as an urban restaurant, offering a gastronomic experience that reflects the multicultural heritage of Thessaloniki.
In one of the most central points, where the pulse of everyday life and nightlife beats, the “Red House Restaurant” is not just another restaurant – and it certainly goes beyond the classic concept of a tavern, since its menu is ideal for complete meals. It offers a dining experience that marries the familiar with the modern, Greek tradition with Mediterranean touches, simplicity with gastronomic care.
One year after its opening, the “Red House” is maturing, upgrading and getting better every day.
With the backdrop of Agias Sofias Square and next to Canada Park, now that the weather is getting better, it is transforming into a cool haven, ideal for relaxed daily outings, both during the day and for the cosmopolitan evenings of Thessaloniki.
Inside, the photographic decoration takes visitors to earlier decades, while the space is dominated by wood and details that remind of something from the past – such as the light bulbs and the wooden seats. The atmosphere is unique, endearing and pleasant, for any visitor.
New menu, new experiences
Inspired by the various cuisines that make up the gastronomic identity of Thessaloniki – Greek, Jewish, Armenian, Turkish, etc. – the menu offers a delicious tour of the city’s history and traditions.
Beyond its basic core, characteristic of the “meze” culture and the joy of sharing delicacies – in abundant choices, in the middle of the table – this year’s menu marks a new era for the “Red House”. The classic values remain, but the cuisine moves forward: it is enriched with new, more complex and restaurant recipes, without losing the essence of authenticity and a homely feel.
Among the new menu proposals, you will find, in the new category of raw seafood, sea bass carpaccio with aromatic olive oil and lemon and black tarama.
Among the appetizers, the mushroom fritters with poached egg and truffle-flavored roast sauce, crispy pork and dried mizithra cheese stand out, a unique combination of depth, textures and aromas.
In the new meat entries, you will find veal tail in parchment paper with gnocchi, fresh tomato and galotiri cheese, as well as oven-baked pork belly, with celeriac cream and a sauce of burnt leeks and wild mushrooms – an ideal proposition for those looking for something sophisticated.
At the same time, the main course section is being dynamically upgraded, with options such as tuna fillet, whole grilled fish of the day, with tricolor quinoa, grilled broccoli and Lebanese lemon dressing, as well as premium meats such as rib eye and flap steak, which promise to satisfy even the most demanding lovers of the genre.
A “home” with an identity
“The Red House” is an ode to Thessaloniki: polyphonic, tasty, welcoming. The flavors it serves carry memories of neighborhoods and seasons and are prepared with products from every corner of Greece, bringing multicultural influences that run through every dish, from the first appetizer to the dessert.
It is the ideal place for meals with friends, colleagues, loved ones – for any time of day, any day of the week. And it has already established itself as one of the top casual dining options in the center of Thessaloniki, a must-visit destination on every walk, for hearty meals and delicious dinners, accompanied by a wine or beer, a glass of tsipouro or ouzo, from its well-stocked cellar. Each of your meals will be accompanied by musical selections from Greek sounds, such as rebetika, light folk, sophisticated pop, etc.
The “home” is made by people. The family. The company. The bonds. And as in every good home, here too the table is always set, with care, taste and consistency. You just have to make your reservation in time, especially for peak days and hours. And you will feel, as always, at home.
Tip 1: The kitchen operates daily, from 12.00 to 24.00. On busy days, it is a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
Tip 2: The menu also has suggestions for young guests!