In Nea Krini, where the land meets the Thermaic Gulf and the cool sea breeze carries the scent of salt to anyone sitting near the water, you’ll find the fish tavern “O Vrachos” (The Rock)—a restaurant that has written, and continues to write, its own history in the area.

Perched on a rock at 2 Mikras Asias Street—as if the street had been waiting for it to open there—it has, for decades, been a beloved destination for Thessaloniki locals who know good fish. It’s a place that honors tradition, quality, and authentic Greek seafood flavors.

The location offers an unmatched view, with three successive terraces that quite literally touch the sea. The setting—adorned with blooming bougainvilleas—is the perfect backdrop for enjoying your coffee, ouzo, or meal while gazing at the water.
This unique spot makes “Vrachos” one of the most iconic destinations in eastern Thessaloniki. The space itself, renovated last winter, will charm you with its refined aesthetic.

A family legacy

The success of “Vrachos” lies in its deep-rooted family tradition and unwavering commitment to quality. Here, visitors immediately feel part of a warm circle—faces and service that evoke the feeling of dining at a dear friend’s home.

That’s the story behind it, after all. In 1932, the family’s great-grandfather, Panagiotis Christodoulou, arrived from Smyrna as a refugee and opened the first café-restaurant right at the spot he fell in love with at first sight, serving the freshest flavors of the Thermaic Gulf.

Years later, his son Frangiskos took over, followed by his grandson Panagiotis in the 1980s. Today, more than 90 years later, the business rests in the hands of Venetia Christodoulou, great-granddaughter of the original founder, who practically grew up here since childhood.

For the past 14 years, as the fourth consecutive generation, she has faithfully preserved the style, quality, and recipes from Smyrna—keeping their authentic flavors intact in a place that truly feels like home.

A menu of fresh seafood and flavors of memory

The menu at “Vrachos” captures the aroma of the sea and the tastes of Asia Minor, promising freshness and pure flavor. Its “trump card” is, of course, the freshly caught fish—grilled over charcoal, just as tradition demands in a true Greek fish tavern.

Catch from the waters of Mount Athos, Kavala, and Lemnos make their way daily to guests’ tables, alongside a wide selection of delicious seafood meze—perfect companions for ouzo, tsipouro, or wine. Each dish is prepared simply and cleanly, accompanied by just the right sides: fresh salads, homemade dips, and irresistible appetizers.

Standout dishes include the traditional Smyrna-style mussel pilaf, Thermaic shrimp, and handmade taramas (fish roe dip), as well as mussels steamed or saganaki-style, cooked according to the great-grandmother’s Smyrna recipes. Among the meze, you’ll also find a rare delicacy in the city: homemade stuffed zucchini blossoms with rice and pine nuts, cooked to perfection, along with homemade dolmadakia (vine leaves stuffed with rice) that you’ll remember long after your visit.

Each dish is prepared with love and respect for its ingredients, creating a satisfying culinary journey—best enjoyed with your eyes fixed on the sea.

Greek wines, spirits, and homemade desserts

The ever-evolving wine list features exclusively Greek vineyards, carefully selected tsipouro and ouzo, completing the dining experience in the most fitting way.

And for the sweet farewell—a handmade praline log with vanilla ice cream, offered to every guest as a complimentary treat. If you prefer, you can choose the irresistible homemade Armenovil from the menu, a dessert that will make your meal truly unforgettable.

For 93 years, “Vrachos” has been a landmark of Nea Krini and a pillar of Thessaloniki’s seafood tradition. It embodies the city we love—historic, welcoming, and always infused with the taste of the sea at every table.

Tip 1: Open daily from 14:00 to 23:00, Sundays from 13:00 to 20:00. Closed on Tuesdays.
Tip 2: Ask for the fish of the day—the friendly staff will show you the freshest options.
Tip 3: Reservations are recommended during peak hours.