There are some unique experiences in dining that emanate authenticity. And combined with a rustic taverna setting, honest people and tasty food it’s definitely worth any trek… like the one we took last week from the centre of Athens, all the way down in Piraeus to visit O Kapetanios (Captain in English).
Hidden in a small street behind the train tracks in North Piraeus, O Kapetanios is a hidden gem known to the few connoisseurs in Maniatika, a neighbourhood that’s definitely going to soon make a buzz, and beyond. We set foot inside Captain’s cosy taverna on a weekday night and got immediately greeted by the friendly staff. Blue-white chequered tableclothes, tapestry marbled floor and fishing nets covering the walls were giving this place the vibe of a truly authentic seafood and fish restaurant. We got our table, picked our number and went straight to the fish counter to weigh our order – shrimps, calamari and crayfish, all fresh from the sea! A proper demonstration of a fisherman’s catch and a nice segway to what was coming.
Serving the very best at reasonable prices ever since 1978, O Kapetanios is open mostly on nights, except for Sundays. When you visit, make sure you try whatever is fresh on the counter… especially so if there’s fried shrimps and fried calamari – so good! They say their red mullets are also very tasty but, hey, we’re going to try that next time we visit!
P.S. Rumor has it, Maria also makes her famous delicious fish soup but better call in advance to make sure you’ll be on it!
