Pikilia Meze Bar sits on Staikopoulou, the pedestrianised main shopping street of Nafplio's old town, and functions as a specialist in the Greek meze tradition — small plates designed for sharing, intended to accompany wine or ouzo over an extended and leisurely evening. The name pikilia means 'variety' in Greek, and the menu is structured around this premise: a constantly rotating selection of sharing plates that draws on the full breadth of Greek culinary regional tradition, from Cretan dakos to Smyrna-influenced soutzoukakia. Kalamata olive bruschetta with oregano-infused olive oil is the straightforward entry point. Spiced feta spread (tirokafteri) is made in-house with Dodoni feta, roasted red peppers, and olive oil — it is served warm with toasted flatbread. Fried cheese with thyme honey represents the classic sweet-savoury tension of the Greek meze table. Soutzoukakia — oblong meatballs flavoured with cumin, cinnamon, and allspice, braised in a rich tomato sauce — are among the most popular dishes and reflect the Smyrna influence on Greek cuisine that arrived with the 1922 population exchanges. The drinks programme is the bar's strongest suit: a long list of Greek wines by the glass, ouzo, tsipouro, and a small cocktail list. The bar does not open until 17:00, making it a dedicated evening venue rather than a lunch option.
Signature dishes
- Bruschetta with Kalamata olives
- Spiced feta spread
- Fried cheese with honey
- Meatballs in tomato sauce (soutzoukakia)
Good to know
- Known for
- Sharing plates of Greek meze with local wines
- Hours
- Daily 17:00–01:00
- Reservations
- Walk-in
Location
Staikopoulou 4, Nafplio 211 00, Greece
37.5675, 22.8018 View on map
Highlights
- Specialist meze bar on Nafplio's pedestrianised old-town street — evening-only from 17:00
- Rotating Greek regional sharing plates drawing on traditions from Crete to Smyrna
- Soutzoukakia — cumin-and-cinnamon meatballs with Smyrna roots — among the most popular dishes
- Long list of Greek wines by the glass alongside ouzo and tsipouro
- House-made tirokafteri (spiced feta spread) served warm with toasted flatbread
Tips for visiting
- Order three to four plates per person and add more as the evening progresses — the kitchen handles small orders well.
- Try tsipouro (Greek pomace spirit) alongside the heavier meze rather than wine.
- Arrive at opening (17:00) to secure the best street-facing table on a summer evening.
- The soutzoukakia and fried cheese with honey arrive hot; order them after the cold meze.
- Late evening after 22:00 the bar element takes over; visit before 21:30 for the best meze experience.
Accessibility
Staikopoulou is a pedestrianised flat street, accessible to wheelchair users. The bar entrance is at street level. Interior seating is on one floor. The street-facing outdoor tables are on a level surface. Visitors with mobility needs should call ahead to confirm table availability.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pikilia Meze Bar suitable for a full dinner?
It functions best as an extended meze evening — ordering multiple rounds of small plates over two to three hours rather than a formal three-course dinner. Three to four plates per person makes for a satisfying meal.
What Greek spirits are available?
The bar has a good selection of ouzo from across Greece, tsipouro from Thessaly, and some aged tsikoudia (Cretan raki). Staff can advise on differences if spirits are unfamiliar.
Is it possible to visit Pikilia for a quick drink without eating?
Yes. The bar is welcoming for wine or cocktails without food, though ordering at least a plate of tirokafteri or olives is the usual practice when sitting at a table.
What time does Pikilia close?
The bar operates until 01:00, making it one of the later-closing establishments in Nafplio's old town. On weekends in summer the closing time may extend further.