Little Kook: a fairy-tale nook in the city centre

Imagine a scene with thousands of balls, hundreds of thousands of lamps, millions of ornaments, and bags full of gifts! Artificial snowflakes guide soldiers to mingle with goblins and reindeer on the sidewalks. This magical setting unfolds in the heart of Athens, in the district of Psyrri. Here, Christmas comes alive in the most enchanting store in town, The Little Kook.

The story of Little Kook began on December 12, 2016. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Psyrri’s district, this fairy-tale shop opened its doors. Its mission was to transport visitors into the pages of a fairy tale with each visit. Christmas, however, is its favorite time of year. The name Little Kook refers to a goblin, who was the main character in the childhood fantasy of one of the shop owners. Every Christmas, this little goblin decorates his shop from corner to corner with toys and lights.

Housed in a neoclassical two-story mansion, Little Kook offers sweets, cakes, cupcakes, chocolates, and a myriad of other delights in a unique setting. What sets it apart is its extraordinary decoration. So, if you’re in Athens for the holidays, don’t miss out on this magical experience!

A Little Christmas Town

If you happen to stroll down 17 Karaiskakis Street in Psyrri’s district, it’s impossible to miss the enchanting fairy-tale shop. It’s a sight to behold all year round, but it truly comes alive during Christmas. It’s undoubtedly the most vibrant and decorated corner of Athens, standing out from a distance and attracting many for a photo opportunity.

As you observe the decorations, you can’t help but wonder about the countless hours spent on adorning it. Garlands, lamps, elves, Santas, and thousands of ornaments transform the place into a living fairy tale. Even if you haven’t visited, you’ve likely seen a photo of it circulating on social media. After all, it’s one of the most photographed shops in the city during Christmas.

The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. The store is adorned from wall to wall. You’ll find scenes and stars from fairy tales, armor, vintage dining rooms, and a piano. Of course, a Christmas tree with its many lights is a given. Paintings, ornaments, and music complete the fairy-tale atmosphere. Additionally, you’ll notice that the rooms are themed and dedicated to a hero or a fairy tale. It’s a magical experience not to be missed!

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What will you order?

Beyond its captivating decor, Little Kook also offers a delightful array of dishes. It’s important to note that this isn’t a place where you can easily find a seat. It’s often crowded, especially during the holiday season. Patience is key, and you might find yourself waiting in a long queue. But the wait is worth it for the extensive variety of hot chocolates, the incredible red velvet cakes, and all the other unique cakes on the menu. Intriguingly, the cakes don’t have ordinary names. For instance, wouldn’t a cake named “Come out, come out wherever you are” tempt you to try it? There’s also a delicious apple pie, homemade cherry juice, and a wide selection of teas.

If you order a dessert, you’ll be surprised by the generous portions. Everything is served in a distinctive style, even the attire of the waitstaff, which seems straight out of a fairy tale.

Whether you step inside or simply pass by Little Kook, particularly during the festive season, you’re bound to pause for a moment. It’s no coincidence that this spot in Psyrri’s district has been a topic of conversation every year since it opened. If you have young children, a stroll past the shop, taking in the decorations, can be a delightful experience. A child could spend hours observing the ornaments and repeatedly pointing out their favorites. A visit to this place will surely convince you of its charm.