Old Village – Plateia Area and the Xagiati Sweet Shop & Cafe with Live Entertainment

The upper portion of plateia area (town square) of the Old Village of Alonnisos provides a spectacular view to the east (see photo down  to your right). To reach this part of the village, from the bus stop walk up to the point where the road ends at a small café (this is actually the main plateia). There is also a very historic church located opposite-right of that cafe. Then, turn left and follow the plaka/cobblestone path further until you reach a plateau with steps to your right (see photo to your left). From that area you will be able to take some great photos.

When you climb those steps you will then be part of what I call the “Old Village promenade,” the main path that cuts through the village, weaving it’s way past restaurants (estiatorios) including “The Kastro” operated by my friend Nectarios, as well as various shops, including the Gallery 5 art gallery and candle store (pictured to your right) operated by the Danish artist Bente Keller.

 At the very end of the promenade is a very popular sweet shop and restaurant called “Xagiati,” which has become one of the most popular locations in the Old Village because of its home-made sweets, fresh brewed coffees/cappuccinos, and aperitifs. While initially Xagiati offered only sweets, today it also includes other food choices, dishes that are lighter faire than those offered at estiatorios and tavernas.

 The proprietor is a very friendly and hard-working woman named Meni (pictured to your right), and based on the fact that Xagiati is always packed with customers, you know for certain the food is excellent. In addition, in recent years Xagiati has been offering excellent evening entertainment in the form of musicians performing both Traditional and Modern Greek music.