Athens is not only a city steeped in history, but it’s also a vibrant culinary capital where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern food trends. From classic Greek tavernas to modern street food vendors, Athens offers a dining experience that’s as rich as its cultural heritage. During my trip to this ancient city, I made it my mission to taste as much of Athens as possible, indulging in its incredible array of local dishes. This guide will walk you through the must-try foods, the best restaurants, and hidden gems where you can experience the real flavors of Greece.
1. Souvlaki at O Kostas
If there’s one dish you absolutely cannot miss in Athens, it’s souvlaki. This classic street food, which consists of grilled meat skewers often served in pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki, is a staple of Greek cuisine. I had heard from several locals that O Kostas, a tiny hole-in-the-wall place near Syntagma Square, serves the best souvlaki in the city.
The place itself is unassuming — a small shop with a few tables outside. But don’t let the size fool you; the souvlaki here is a revelation. The meat, tender and juicy, is perfectly grilled and seasoned with just the right amount of herbs. The pita is warm and fluffy, and the tzatziki is fresh with a tangy kick. It’s no wonder that locals and tourists alike queue up here every day for a taste of this iconic dish. O Kostas serves its souvlaki wrapped tightly in parchment paper, making it easy to eat on the go as you explore the nearby sights.
2. Moussaka at Strofi
After spending a day exploring the Acropolis, I found myself at Strofi, a restaurant known for its traditional Greek dishes and its incredible rooftop view of the Parthenon. If you’re looking for a classic Greek meal in an iconic setting, this is the place to be.
I ordered the moussaka, a famous Greek casserole layered with eggplant, minced meat, and a rich béchamel sauce. As soon as the dish arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The moussaka was beautifully presented in a clay pot, with the golden-brown top layer glistening under the restaurant lights. The flavors were even better than I had imagined. The creamy béchamel sauce melted in my mouth, while the layers of eggplant and minced meat created a deliciously hearty, savory combination. Paired with a glass of local red wine, the meal was pure perfection.
3. Loukoumades at Krinos
No trip to Athens would be complete without indulging in some Greek desserts, and loukoumades are the perfect introduction to Greek sweets. These deep-fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and soft and airy on the inside, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts.
I visited Krinos, a historic café in the heart of the city, famous for its loukoumades. Established in 1923, Krinos is an institution in Athens, and its loukoumades are legendary. I ordered a plate and sat down to enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness. The honey was fragrant and floral, perfectly complementing the light, fluffy dough. It’s easy to see why these little bites of heaven are such a popular dessert in Greece.
4. Seafood at Varoulko Seaside
For seafood lovers, Varoulko Seaside in Piraeus is a must-visit. Chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to earn a Michelin star, has created a menu that highlights the freshest fish and seafood in Athens, with dishes that combine traditional Greek flavors with a modern twist.
I ordered the sea bass carpaccio, which was a true work of art. Thin slices of sea bass were beautifully arranged on the plate, dressed with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. The freshness of the fish was unparalleled, and the citrusy dressing brought out its delicate flavor. The grilled octopus, another must-try, was perfectly tender, served with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and capers. The meal was light, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
The restaurant’s location by the sea only adds to the experience. As I dined, I watched boats gently bobbing in the marina, with the salty sea breeze in the air. It was the perfect setting for a seafood feast.
5. Greek Salad at To Kati Allo
I couldn’t leave Athens without trying a traditional Greek salad, and the one I had at To Kati Allo, a family-run taverna near the Acropolis Museum, was hands down the best I’ve ever had. What sets a Greek salad apart is the simplicity and quality of the ingredients: ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, green peppers, onions, and Kalamata olives, all topped with a thick slab of feta cheese and a generous drizzle of olive oil.
At To Kati Allo, the vegetables tasted like they had just been picked from a local farm — they were so fresh and full of flavor. The feta was creamy and rich, with a slightly tangy bite that paired perfectly with the sweet tomatoes. It was the kind of salad that makes you appreciate the beauty of simple, well-prepared food.
6. Baklava at Serbetia tou Psyrri
For dessert lovers, baklava is a must-try in Athens, and Serbetia tou Psyrri is the place to get it. This charming café in the trendy Psyrri neighborhood specializes in traditional Greek sweets, and their baklava is out of this world.
When I arrived, the air was filled with the sweet aroma of honey and spices. I ordered a piece of baklava and was immediately impressed by its flaky, golden layers of phyllo dough, which were filled with a mixture of chopped nuts and spices and soaked in syrup. The dessert was rich and decadent, but not overly sweet — the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Paired with a cup of strong Greek coffee, it was the ideal way to end a meal.
7. Gyro at Bairaktaris
If you’re in the mood for something quick, cheap, and delicious, look no further than a gyro from Bairaktaris, one of Athens’ oldest and most famous gyros shops located in Monastiraki Square.
A gyro is similar to souvlaki, but the meat is shaved from a vertical rotisserie and served in pita with fries, onions, tomatoes, and tzatziki. At Bairaktaris, I ordered a pork gyro, and it did not disappoint. The meat was tender and flavorful, perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices. The fries added a satisfying crunch, while the tzatziki brought a refreshing, tangy element to the sandwich. It’s the perfect meal to grab on the go while exploring the bustling streets of Monastiraki.
8. Taramasalata at Atlantikos
Taramasalata, a creamy dip made from fish roe, is a quintessential part of Greek mezze. I tried this traditional dish at Atlantikos, a seafood-focused taverna tucked away in a quiet corner of Psyrri. The restaurant is small and cozy, with a laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel like a local.
When the taramasalata arrived, I was struck by its vibrant pink color and smooth texture. The flavor was equally impressive — it was rich and briny, with a subtle tang that paired beautifully with the warm bread served alongside it. It’s a dish that embodies the bold flavors of the sea, and Atlantikos does it justice.
Athens is a city where history and culture come alive on every street corner, and its food scene is no different. Whether you’re enjoying a casual souvlaki from a street vendor or indulging in a fine dining experience by the sea, the flavors of Athens are sure to leave a lasting impression.
