This summer, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens presents a refreshed version of Zolotas Beach, its atmospheric seaside destination on the Athenian Riviera. This secluded beachfront space has been redesigned with vibrant, specially crafted furniture and decorative elements by Rianna Kounou, founder of the internationally renowned fashion brand RIANNA + NINA. At the same time, a culinary experience centered on fire and authentic Greek tradition comes to life through memories of summers she spent in the Astir area.
From June 18, the private beach is transformed into an exclusive outdoor restaurant, open Thursday through Monday, welcoming only 20 to 30 guests each evening. In a unique meeting of fashion, art, and gastronomy, the award-winning hotel collaborated with Rianna, transforming her personal heritage and memories into an immersive hospitality experience.
Stories served by the sea
Raised in a family of hoteliers, Rianna spent her childhood summers at the iconic Astir Palace Hotel, where days unfolded between the sea, the sun, and cherished family traditions. Memories of swimming at the legendary Zolotas Beach and endless Mediterranean meals inspired the new menu.
In a creative collaboration with Rianna, Chef Thodoris Papanikolaou created an à la carte offering based on premium ingredients cooked over an open parrilla fire.
Among Rianna’s favorite dishes is grilled pita over charcoal with sea salt, fresh oregano, and tarama, which she describes as “the perfect way to begin any authentic Greek gathering.” The inventive n-tacos, featuring tomato as the star ingredient, reflect the vibrancy of seasonal Greek produce, while the lamb kontosouvli is inspired by childhood holidays spent with her grandmother.
A special place on the menu is held by kakavia, the traditional fish soup which, according to her, represents the “emotional peak” of the experience, as it reminds her of a beloved family taverna that only prepared it when the day’s catch was truly exceptional.
“No story of Greek family life is complete without dessert,” Rianna notes. Her favorite choice is ravani, a dessert that was never absent from her family’s Sunday tables and which is reinterpreted for Four Seasons guests with grilled pineapple and coconut ice cream.
The wine list focuses on Mediterranean labels, highlighting fresh, expressive flavors that pair perfectly with fire-cooked dishes. Meanwhile, the cocktails draw inspiration from the Greek summer, incorporating local herbs, citrus fruits, and subtle smoky notes, set against the breathtaking sunsets of Astir.
RIANNA + NINA: Inspired by the spirit of the Athenian Riviera
The distinctive character of Zolotas Beach is complemented by fabrics and decorative details exclusively designed for the hotel by Rianna. The brand RIANNA + NINA, known for its storytelling approach to textile design, co-created with the hotel team a space that blends nostalgia with contemporary aesthetics.
Blue and white stripes, handcrafted patterns, and vivid Mediterranean references create an elegant yet effortless setting for sunset aperitivo and private seaside dinners. Colorful cushions, curtains, vintage rugs, and handcrafted tableware pay tribute to Greek craftsmanship and deepen guests’ connection to the destination.
In the hotel’s boutique spa, guests can also discover an exclusive collection of items designed by Rianna specifically for the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. Beach towels, placemats, and specially designed tableware in bold colors and patterns allow visitors to take home a piece of authentic Greek creativity.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Rianna, giving new life to her cherished memories of the Athenian Riviera,” said General Manager of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, Jann Kaiser. “From the menu to the design of the space, every element is a tribute to Greek culture—colorful, expressive, and created with precision, passion, and love.”
