An Insider’s Guide To Paros With Andria Mitsakos
The global PR guru and founder of Anthologist has been coming for nearly a decade to the Cycladic Island, where she has a home and a store. Here, she shares her little black book of things to do, see and eat.
“Every island in the Cyclades has its own beauty. Paros has beautiful beaches and a gorgeous interior, and this combination of mountains and sea makes it very appealing to me. You also have strong farming and fishing communities, a deep connection to land and sea — it’s the consummate island life.
I usually spend about three months on the island each year. Now that I have my shops, I like to be there to meet my clients in person. May and June are the best months to visit. I love how green the island is in spring, it’s absolutely bursting with wildflowers and hope.
My house on Paros is really an oversized cottage; a mini farmhouse of sorts. The interiors are ever-changing — I’m a maximalist so I’m always layering a new find over an old one. My desk is made from two stone griffin pedestals I found on the street and topped with a marble slab. I have piles of textiles strewn over chairs, hanging on the walls and one even functions as my bathroom door. Afghan nomadic tent fringes hang above windows, silk suzanis are tossed on top of wool kilims and floor cushions I made from old Persian rug fragments. The fireplace mantle is encrusted with seashells I found on my favorite beach — I placed every single one by hand during the pandemic. The whole mood is very mystical, effortless, and romantic. The outdoor area is just as special. I have an old monastery table for entertaining friends, an old stained glass chandelier and endless cushions and magic carpets — it’s a great aperitivo spot.
Anthologist was born in Paros during the pandemic as I was creating things for my own house. One thing led to the next and… I have recently opened the flagship in Athens — it’s such a beautiful space. You cannot pass through the city without visiting, although you must make an appointment.
I founded Anthologist to support cultural preservation. Antiques are a tangible cultural legacy that can be passed from generation to generation, and they represent an elegant way of reusing and recycling. Objects with a provenance have stories —and I want people to appreciate beautiful things with a story. To collect, not shop.
To make an appointment at Anthologist Athens, email athens@anthologist.com
ANDRIA’S GUIDE TO PAROS
Where do You Suggest Friends Stay on the Island?
“Parilio and Cosme, are the two hotels on Paros where I have my shops. If you want more space or privacy, then Acron Villas, which has gorgeous sea views overlooking Naoussa.”
What’s the First Thing You Do When You Get to the Island?
“If we don’t have Meltemi, I head straight to the beach at the end of my dirt road. When there is no wind, it’s like diving into the glass. It’s a baptismal plunge into the Aegean every single time. I am also adamant about reading Cavafy every morning, it grounds me.”
For a Morning Coffee, Where Do You Like Best?
“Cannelait, a bakery that opened last year. They have fantastic coffee, the most wonderful patisserie, and a gorgeous terrace to enjoy it all in — plus they’re the kindest, most genuine people. Ask for LouLou and make sure you buy all the tomato biscuits they have… trust me! You also have to try their incredible chocolate torte made with capers from the island.
What about a Long, Lazy Lunch with Friends…
“Always Thalassamou. Owned by Marios (the chef) and Anna, it’s the quintessential Greek summer location. I always sit at the same table under the pine trees. I never wear shoes. I never order anything…I let Anna and Marios do the rest. We lunch until the moon rises…”
Any Beach Clubs you Like?
“I don’t do beach clubs, but if I’m going to entertain friends, I’ll leave them at the beach at Cosme, while I’m puttering around upstairs at Anthologist.”
Where Do You Go for a Romantic Dinner?
“SiParos, hands-down. Go early, have a martini at the bar — tell the barman you want ‘Andria’s Gin Martini. Order the saffron prawn orzo and then ask Paris and Despina to do the rest of the ordering.”
Any other Restaurants Not to Miss?
“Yes! Mario moved from Naoussa to Livadia this year. He’s right on the seaside and it’s a beautiful location for lunch.”
And for a Nightcap?
“In Naoussa, Kosmos Cocktail Bar and Agosta.
Apart from Anthologist, are There any Good Shopping Spots?
“Mitsu in Parikia has some great things, and I visit my friends who own The Antique Store Paros on the perimeter road. Then To Melissi for gourmet finds and the best natural skincare on the island. Ask for Maro, the owner.
Is there Good Hiking on Paros?
“There are some great hikes on the island. The one from Lefkes village is fantastic, and I love the route from Monastiri Beach to the lighthouse.”
What about Renting a Boat for the Day…
“Talk to my friend Petros Tsounakis, who is a fisherman and a chef. He will organize everything and cook for you, too.”
Any Must-Visit Islands Nearby?
“Despotiko is uninhabited and has an incredible archaeological site.”
And Finally, is Anything Really off the Beaten Track?
“Absolutely, but I can’t share them!”
Andria is the founder of AMPR and Anthologist. You can follow her on Instagram @wanderlista
84 Rooms recommends: The Greek Island You Have To Visit This Summer, and An Insider Guide To Hydra.