Nestled on the corner of Olympou and Tositsa streets in Thessaloniki, ESTET has quickly become the talk of the town. This charming café, a collaborative effort by chef Vasilis Hamam and Dimitris Vlasios, offers more than just a cup of coffee—it delivers an experience that effortlessly blends top-notch flavors with a neighbourhood vibe.
The first thing I noticed when I first visited over the Christmas break is the corner-shop appeal: small yet inviting, with large windows offering a panoramic view of the lively streets. Locals were strolling with their dogs and travelers from nearby Airbnbs were tending to their caffeine fix. We sat inside and started chatting with the servers about the shop. Open until 9 PM, ESTET transitions seamlessly from morning brews to early evening drinks.
Offering TAF’s competition blend alongside a single-origin Costa Rican variety, ESTET serves a high quality espresso, whether you opt for a hot or cold one. But the food menu is where ESTET truly stands out. The grilled cheese sandwich is a must-try: za’atar-spiced sourdough, tangy pickled onions, Kozani’s finest melted kaseri cheese, and the pièce de résistance—a coffee-infused sriracha sauce that Vasilis first perfected in London.
Every ingredient at ESTET is thoughtfully sourced. Bread comes from the beloved Sourdough Microbakery, while dairy—like the rich milk for your coffee, tangy sheep’s yogurt, and creamy kaseri cheese—is delivered fresh from Livadero Farm in Kozani. Even the cheesecake benefits from this local touch, with the yogurt lending it a light, refreshing tang.
With its Pentelic marble countertop, rattan stools, and a few well-placed plants, the interior strikes the perfect balance between urban chic and timeless elegance. The hand-painted logo and photography by Yiannis Drakoulidis add an artistic touch, creating a space that feels meticulously crafted yet effortlessly welcoming.
ESTET is proof that good taste doesn’t require a lavish budget—just creativity, hard work, and a clear vision. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a relaxed bite, this café is a celebration of the beauty found in simplicity.
