NYX: A Japanese fusion gastrobar in the sky over Athens

Perched atop the opulent Academias Hotel (Autograph Collection) in central Athens, NYX restaurant (Omirou 19, Athens 10672, tel.:6981518000, see menu here) stands as a paragon of culinary innovation and sophistication.

This rooftop restaurant, under the stewardship of the chef Dimitris Kotsalis, offers diners an enchanting view of the Acropolis and creating a dining experience that is as visually captivating as it is gastronomically exquisite.

Specializing in a masterful fusion of Asian and Greek flavors, NYX’s menu is a testament to the creativity and expertise of Chef Kotsalis, promising a journey through a world of freshness and delicate tastes.

From the moment one steps onto the rooftop of the Academias Hotel, the breathtaking panorama of Athens unfurls before the eyes, with the ancient Acropolis commanding the skyline.

The setting is modern and elegant, imbued with a touch of understated luxury that allows the natural beauty of the city to take center stage.

The open-air dining area is meticulously designed to maximize the views, ensuring that every table enjoys an unobstructed sightline to the historic landmark.

The ambiance is further enhanced by subtle lighting, chic furnishings, and a gentle breeze, which together create an overall sense of serenity and sophistication.

The inventive menu, artfully blends the flavors and techniques of Asian and Greek cuisines.

Chef’s dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients is manifest in every dish, each of which is meticulously crafted to provide a symphony of flavors and textures.

The culinary journey at NYX begins with a selection of appetizers that set the stage for what is to come.

The Japanese salad is a standout, featuring tender slices of tuna tataki accompanied by earthy topinambur, vibrant beets, and baby carrots.

The crispy rice adds a delightful crunch, while the miso and sesame dressing provides a rich, umami-packed finish that harmoniously ties the dish together.

Next is the ceviche millet, a refreshing and invigorating dish that marries the tangy brightness of citrus-marinated seafood with the subtle heat of jalapeno.

The salicornia adds a salty, crunchy element, and the side of crispy tapioca crackers offers an additional layer of texture, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and sensations.

Next up, shrimps from Koilada paired with smoked eel and cucumber marinated in sake.

The addition of sea urchin and finger lime imparts a flavorful touch, while the crispy buckwheat offers a satisfying crunch that complements the tender seafood.

This dish epitomizes the fusion concept, blending traditional Japanese elements with innovative twists that highlight Greek ingredients.

The shrimp dumplings dish is another highlight. The dumplings are filled with succulent shrimp and garnished with Greek vile, dried bonito flakes, and shisho.

The lemon sabayon adds a zesty brightness that balances the rich, savory flavors of the dumplings, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

The main courses at NYX continue to impress with their bold flavors and inventive combinations.

The grilled crayfish, wrapped in shisho leaves and marinated in a tantalizing blend of lime and jalapeno, is grilled to perfection and served with a saffron carrot puree, chijiki seaweed, and shiitake powder.

The accompanying shrimp bisque with kimchi adds a depth of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the crayfish, while the rice provides a comforting base that ties all the elements together.

For those seeking a vegetarian option, the eggplant with miso is a revelation. The eggplant is roasted to perfection and glazed with a savory miso sauce, then topped with crunchy cashews and delicate bonito flakes. The dish achieves a perfect balance of flavors and textures, showcasing the versatility of the humble eggplant.

Sushi section at NYX Rooftop Japanese Fusion Gastrobar

At NYX, the sushi offerings transcend expectations, beginning with the spicy tuna sushi roll. This roll is a harmonious blend of spicy tuna, vibrant kimchi, and crunchy crispy onions, each bite elevated by the aromatic shiso and the delicate pop of tobiko. A drizzle of ponzu ties it all together, delivering a perfect balance of spice, tang, and texture.

The sashimi roll is a celebration of fresh flavors, featuring silky tuna, luscious salmon, and succulent shrimp. The addition of fresh wasabi and finger lime introduces an unexpected zing, while the creamy avocado and crisp daikon wrap create a delightful contrast in textures, making each bite an exquisite experience.

Finally, the creamy seabass nigiri is a revelation and my favorite. A perfectly charred seabass is buttery and rich, topped with finely chopped chives and a touch of spicy mayo, offering a creamy, spicy finish that lingers beautifully.

Each dish here is a testament to the restaurant’s mastery in melding diverse flavors and textures into a cohesive and memorable culinary journey.