- Outdoor & travel
Nōema is a contemporary Greek restaurant and bar imbued with the spirit of the Cyclades, where the simplicity and raw beauty of island life take centre stage. This is a place that celebrates the abundance of nature, not through excess, but by cherishing what the earth provides. The restaurant exudes a philosophy steeped in Cycladic traditions and values, embracing and sharing the modest bounty of the sun-drenched landscape.
Nōema's culinary vision is led by Athinagoras Kostakos, who takes cuisine to a new level by combining traditional Cycladic cooking techniques with a contemporary flair. Kostakos stresses the importance of fresh ingredients, especially emphasising the role of vegetables, fish, and high-quality olive oil as the indispensable pillars of his cuisine. In addition, garum, an ancient fermentation technique, plays a crucial role in Nōema's dishes. This fermentation process, which began a year before the business opened, is essential for the umami flavour that characterises many of the dishes. Although the garum process gives off an intense aroma, the result is a rich, flavourful sauce that takes Nōema's dishes to the next level. 
This is a place where you celebrate the abundance of nature
The bar is an ode to Greece's nature, enriching drinks with vegetable ingredients and fruit from the Cycladic region. Ingredients such as samphire, dill, figs, and thyme are combined with Greek spirits, some of which are made in-house, such as the dry Greek vermouth with Assyrtiko wine from Santorini. The seasons play an important role in the bar's offerings, with spring in particular bringing an explosion of flavours that influence the creative process in the kitchen and bar. Besides food and drink, music is an integral part of the experience at Nōema. The central courtyard, the Avli, is a place where cultural cross-pollination comes alive through music, dance, and poetry. This place reflects the rich musical traditions of the region, bringing together influences from all over the world. The Avli acts as a platform for both local and international musicians to tell their stories and learn from each other, creating a unique musical experience that takes guests on a journey through time and culture. 
Nōema's philosophy is also embodied in the physical space, where every detail, from the tableware to the furnishings, has been chosen with care and attention. Each piece of tableware is a unique work of art, hand-shaped by artists guided by nature and their own creative instincts. These unique pieces perfectly match the culinary creations being served, adding to the overall aesthetic experience of the restaurant. Nōema is a celebration of the Cycladic way of life, where simplicity, nature, and culture come together to create something truly special. Whether enjoying a carefully prepared meal, sampling a unique drink, or listening to the sounds of the Avli, at Nōema every guest is invited to discover and celebrate the essence of life.
Photography by Claus Brechenmacher and Robert Rieger
Text by Celien Hemelaer