There's free parking behind Athens Grocery, Inc. in Greektown. There's also a valet from a nearby restaurant who will give you an annoyed look if you park there. If you ignore the admonishing stare and head into the store through the back entrance, you'll be delighted to find yourself in the storage room. Continue on your journey and you'll find yourself in the store, albeit behind the counter. Needless to say, this is a bit awkward.
However, chances are if you're headed to Athens Grocery, you live in the neighborhood, so you can just walk in the old-fashioned way, through the front door. The store is your standard neighborhood grocer with the added bonus of a selection of Greek imports. Your basic, everyday necessities are available, from Mott's applesauce to Clorox to Hawaiian Punch. And of course, lottery tickets. As for the Greek imports, you'll find stuffed grape leaves, fava beans, honey and more. One aisle is lined with large tins of different olive oils ranging in price from $32.95 to 38.95. In front of the obligatory liquor selection, a display case has an array of Greek olives: green, black, royal, alfonso and kalamata. In the next case fresh feta cheese ($6.90 per pound) waits to be cut by a friendly man behind the counter. If you are in need of feta, or seeking a hard to find Greek favorite, this is the place to visit. Park in the back for added fun.
Centerstage Reviewer: A.J. Weiss
