Alexis Lazaridis

In the heart of Athens, my restaurant stands as a beacon of tradition and resilience. At 64 years old, with four decades of experience behind me, I've seen the city undergo countless transformations, but none quite like this.

As the scorching summer sun beats down relentlessly, I find myself grappling with a new foe: the climate crisis. It's not just about surviving economic downturns anymore – now, we're fighting to endure the sweltering heat and the ever-looming threat of forest fires.

Tourists, once drawn to the vibrant streets of Athens, now seek refuge indoors, wary of the oppressive temperatures. Even our most loyal patrons think twice before venturing out, and when one collapsed from heat exhaustion recently, it served as a stark wake-up call.

From my spot behind the counter, I watch the city pulse with life, but beneath the surface, there's an undeniable tension. What will become of this beloved city, this cherished restaurant, in the face of such uncertainty?

As I wipe down tables and serve up plates of souvlaki, I can't help but worry about the future. Will my children and grandchildren inherit a world that's still hospitable? Or will they be left to grapple with the consequences of our inaction?

But amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains clear – as long as there's breath in my lungs, I'll continue to stand strong, serving up a taste of Greece to all who pass through my doors, and fighting for a better tomorrow, for Athens, for Greece, and for the world.