Ammos Hotel
Ammos Hotel, a boutique hotel on the western side of Crete, combines luxury with family-friendly features. The shallow water, sandy beach, spa & restaurant make it its own island on an island.
How would you describe Monsieur Didot in a nutshell?
Monsieur Didot aspires to offer his guests a meaningful and memorable experience, one that is created with care, attention to detail and an emphasis on authenticity. He is influenced by the neighbourhood’s dynamism and culture, he respects the environment and cares for its protection and aims to make its guests feel that they are in a “home away from home”, offering them personalized care and a way to discover the city through the eyes of a local.
What’s your background and what was your inspiration to open Monsieur Didot?
Created and run by a group of friends, Monsieur Didot aspires to share an unknown side of the capital with guests by harmoniously combining the charm of the past with the amenities of the present.
The name is inspired by the Didot family who were French typewriters, publishers and booksellers and, more specifically, Firmin Didot, a pioneer in typewriting history, inventor of “stereotype” and creator of the famous font which carries his name.
This concept fits into the dynamic and “artistic” neighbourhood of Kolonaki, which once was the meeting place for writers and literary minds of a bygone era. Art, culture, books, typography is what inspires us. Monsieur Didot wishes that his guests will learn, explore, and become curious.
How would you describe the atmosphere and the interior design of Monsieur Didot?
The impressive neoclassical residence, which dates back to 1880 was restored respecting to the building’s history and came to life once more in September 2019.
Using traditional methods and natural materials, the team of designers succeeded in unveiling and showcasing some of the most impressive elements of the space, such as tall, hand-painted ceilings and vintage mosaics. At the same time, contemporary construction techniques provide a modern touch.
Monsieur Didot owes its name to a man of letters and arts. This is reflected in the interior design. Bookcases throughout the building, framed works by famous and not yet famous artists, portraits of influential people, handmade ceramics and custom-designed lighting have been introduced into the building’s fabric, encouraging contrast, a plurality of textures and shapes.
To you personally, what is so special about Monsieur Didot?
The same that is so special for Monsieur Didot’s guests: unique aesthetics, a relaxed atmosphere, a homely atmosphere, personalized care and support.
Please tell us about the food.
A stay at Monsieur Didot embraces a “your home away from home” philosophy with personalized service and tailor-made recommendations. The day always begins with a lavish homemade breakfast, which guests can enjoy in their room or on the rooftop during the summer months. Inspired by the traditional Greek diet, carefully selected organic ingredients from all over the country are transformed into a truly delicious start of the day. Guests may also opt for a quick snack from the “all day” menu, designed by the hotel’s consultant chef, or have a bottle of wine accompanied with assortments of Greek deli products.
Guests also have the opportunity to experience the art of food and wine pairing with a wine connoisseur and delight their senses with exquisite flavors and handpicked wines from Greece on Monsieur Didot’ s terrace.
Finally, the team of Monsieur Didot has compiled a set of recommendations for the best restaurants, bistros and cocktail bars in the neighborhood (and there are many of them) and in Athens in general, so guests can avoid tourist traps.
Is Monsieur Didot best suited for couples, families, groups? What’s your policy on kids?
Monsieur Didot is a friendly place for all kinds of travellers, except large groups (over 16 persons), because of its small size. Couples are accommodated in double rooms and suites, families can stay in the suites, and larger families or small groups (up to 7 persons) can book the whole first floor of the residence and privately use the sitting area on that floor.
Larger groups (up to 16 persons) can book the whole residence (4 double rooms, 2 suites, an indoor sitting area on the first floor and an open-air terrace on the second floor) and really feel like a good friend hosts them in his home in Athens.
Regarding kids, Monsieur Didot loves their presence here. We provide baby cots, extra sofa-beds in the suites, toys, drawing kits, baby seats, baby linen and special gifts on the family’s check-out. Kids up to 12 years old are not charged throughout the whole year, 12-18 years old are not charged from October to April.
