In eastern Thessaloniki, on Ethnikis Antistaseos Street, beats the heart of Methi Wine Bistro—a place that has grown beyond the concept of a simple wine bar to become one of the top wine destinations in Thessaloniki. With a story that began in 2000—when the venue was a liquor store—the vision of the Partalis-Kazakou family was born: to give wine an equal place at the table alongside food. This vision, born among shelves filled with bottles and aromas, transformed Methi in 2012 into a welcoming bistrot where wine and food coexist in perfect harmony.

Methi —the Greek word for “intoxication”—refers to a state of euphoria, whether caused by alcohol or intense emotions. At Methi, the beautiful wine bar–restaurant in Kalamaria, that delightful, relaxed feeling is due to both.

The love and years of expertise of Tasos Partalis and his wife, Nena Kazakou, are the foundation of this beautiful endeavor. Tasos, influenced by travels and experiences around the world, is in charge of the wine selection, while Nena, with her natural culinary talent, oversees the kitchen. Their daughter, Erietta Partali, has now joined the team in a unique role: organizing wine club excursions to wineries and introducing wine lovers to the secrets of the Greek vineyard. Their philosophy is clear: wine doesn’t stand alone—it pairs with food. The goal is the ideal pairing, a harmonious combination of flavors, with plenty of options to suit every taste.

A fully stocked cellar and pairing as an art form

Methi wine cellar is a true paradise for wine lovers, with over 500 labels from both Greek and international producers. Choosing becomes a game, thanks to a dedicated tablet app brought to your table, allowing you to filter by color, variety, or producer.

For those who prefer wine by the glass, 14 different labels are available and refreshed monthly. Premium wines are served using the Coravin system, ensuring top quality even after the bottle is opened.

With over 20 years of experience, the Methi team is always ready to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal. Here, pairing is truly an art!

Flavors designed for sharing

Food at Methi doesn’t take a back seat—it’s wine’s loyal companion. Nena Kazakou’s handmade creations are based on fresh, high-quality ingredients and balanced flavor combinations.

The menu follows a sharing philosophy, with dishes designed to be enjoyed in the center of the table, creating a joyful, communal atmosphere. The cuisine offers something for everyone, beyond the typical wine accompaniments.

Signature dishes include the timeless beef fillet carpaccio with parmesan and truffle oil—perfectly paired with a red or rosé wine—handmade tart that pairs beautifully with a full-bodied Syrah or Cabernet, the rich and satisfying trahanoto, and the classic escargots à la Bourguignonne, which pair wonderfully with a fine Chardonnay—or even Champagne!

A special highlight is the newly introduced handmade pasta. Be sure to try the Cappelletti, filled with mushrooms and cheese cream, served with a mushroom broth sauce that evokes truffle oil—excellent with Xinomavro, although, as they say, mushroom pasta “goes with everything”!

Also noteworthy is the Girella, filled with goat cheese and lime zest, topped with a spicy nduja sauce (Italian spicy sausage) for the bold, and ideally paired with a full-bodied red. Just ask, and they’ll recommend the perfect match!

Of course, no wine bar would be complete without a fine selection of charcuterie and cheese platters. The cold cuts are freshly sliced using a Berkel slicer for maximum freshness. Choose between Parma prosciutto and jamón ibérico and elevate your wine experience with flavors that will delight you.

Don’t leave without trying the chocolate sphere for dessert: an explosion of flavors with sesame brittle ice cream, brownie log, and hot caramel that melts the chocolate shell—pure indulgence.

Bringing people together through flavor and conversation

Methi is a place that brings people together through taste and conversation. The atmosphere is just right, with jazz and acoustic covers playing in the background. The wine flows freely, and the flavors stand out. All you have to do is surrender to the magic of wine and good food!

And if you want to learn even more about wine—its origin and production—let yourself be guided by Erietta. Thanks to her many winery visits, she’ll introduce you to the secrets of winemaking and offer a meal perfectly paired with it.

Tips for your visit:

  • Tip 1: Methi is open Monday to Saturday from 18:00 to 01:00, and Sunday for lunch from 12:00 to 24:00.
  • Tip 2: The venue is also great for business meetings, especially on Sundays or weekday afternoons and evenings.
  • Tip 3: To ensure your unique experience, make a reservation in advance!