Pelosof: Autumn Welcomes Us Inside One of Thessaloniki’s Most Historic Atriums

There is a distinct shift in the air when autumn arrives in Thessaloniki. As the breezy seaside nights fade, the city’s energy moves back indoors. We naturally start searching for those warm, covered spaces that feel like a sanctuary from the cooler weather. This autumn, my steps led me back to a place that holds layers of history—both for the city and for me personally: the stunning atrium of Pelosof.

Located inside the historic Pelosof Arcade (Stoa Pelosof) on Tsimiski Street, which was built back in 1924, this space is a architectural marvel. For years, this very spot housed the iconic Toms Flagship Store & Cafe, a place I used to visit constantly. Walking under that beautiful glass roof always brings back a wave of nostalgia. Today, the space has been beautifully reimagined as Pelosof, preserving its majestic, timeless character while adding a sleek, modern touch.

While Pelosof morphs into a vibrant, high-energy bar when the sun goes down, my wild bar nights are officially over. These days, I prefer a much slower, more mindful rhythm. For me, Pelosof has become the ultimate destination for a relaxed city brunch.

Sitting in that grand atrium during a cozy autumn morning, watching the soft daylight filter through the glass ceiling, is pure bliss. It is an all-day venue, but there is something truly magical about heading there for a quiet morning escape. Pair an expertly brewed coffee with one of their delicious, freshly baked pastries—like a perfectly flaky, golden croissant—and you have the recipe for the perfect, unhurried autumn day in the heart of the city.

If you are visiting Thessaloniki this season and want to experience a place where local history meets modern everyday living, skip the generic cafes. Step into this beautiful arcade, take a deep breath, and enjoy a slow brunch in a space that has been beating at the heart of the city for a century.

Local Tip: Bring a book or a notebook. The acoustic qualities and the natural light of the atrium during the early afternoon make it one of the most inspiring and calming indoor spots in the entire center.

 Where to find it: Tsimiski 22 (Inside Stoa Pelosof), Thessaloniki