Tasty Greek Meals That Won’t Break the Bank
If there’s one thing I learned during my stay in Athens, it’s that you don’t need a big budget to eat well here. In fact, some of my favorite meals were the simplest and most affordable — enjoyed in local spots filled with Athenians, away from the tourist crowds.
Whether you’re backpacking through Greece or just love to travel smart, Athens is a fantastic city for food lovers on a budget. Here’s a list of my go-to cheap eats, snacks, and hidden gems that made my tastebuds (and wallet) very happy.
Souvlaki and Gyros: The Classic Budget Meal
These are everywhere, and they’re always good. For just €2–3, you get a warm pita stuffed with meat, fries, tomato, onions, and tzatziki. It’s filling, fast, and super flavorful.
Where I loved it:
- O Thanasis – Right in Monastiraki, it’s famous but still affordable. Try the kebab version!
- Kostas (since 1950) – A local favorite near Syntagma. Just one item on the menu, and it’s perfect.
Street Pies and Snacks: Savory Goodness on the Go
Spanakopita (spinach pie) and tiropita (cheese pie) are cheap, delicious, and available at almost every bakery. I often grabbed one with a coffee and sat in a sunny square to people-watch.
Go-to place:
- Ariston Bakery – Old-school charm and dozens of pie choices. Most are under €2.50.
Budget-Friendly Taverns for a Full Meal
You don’t have to skip traditional tavernas if you’re on a budget. Just look for the ones where locals eat — with handwritten menus and dishes of the day.
Favorites I discovered:
- Tis Theatrou to Steki – Hidden near the central market, this humble taverna has big portions of homemade Greek food at really low prices.
- Klimataria – You can eat well for under €10 here, and often there’s live music. Cozy, authentic, and welcoming.
Fresh Seafood Without the Fancy Prices
Seafood in Athens can be expensive, but not if you know where to go. Try small ouzeris (traditional bars serving ouzo and small plates) for affordable fish and meze.
Where I went:
- Atlantikos – A local seafood spot tucked away in the Psiri neighborhood. Fried sardines and grilled octopus for a fraction of the price you’d pay by the water.
Sweet Treats for Cheap
- Loukoumades – Little honey doughnuts that melt in your mouth.
Try them at: Lukumades near Monastiraki. A small box costs around €3–4. - Baklava and Galaktoboureko – Rich, sweet, and satisfying.
Best spot: Stani, a historic dairy bar where desserts are delicious and cheap.
Coffee Culture on a Budget
Cafés are everywhere, and sitting down with a freddo espresso or Greek coffee is part of the experience. You can sip slowly for hours — no rush.
My go-to place:
- Mokka – Just next to the Central Market. They brew Greek coffee in sand, the traditional way. A drink costs around €2.50–3.
Tips to Eat Cheap in Athens
- Avoid tourist traps in the main squares — walk a few blocks out for better prices and more authentic food.
- Look for daily specials in tavernas (like “home-cooked meal of the day”).
- Share meze (small dishes) with friends to taste more and spend less.
- Local markets like Varvakios Agora offer fruits, nuts, and snacks if you want to picnic or self-cater for a day.
My Favorite Budget-Friendly Day of Eating in Athens
- Morning – Spinach pie and coffee from Ariston
- Lunch – A souvlaki wrap at Kostas
- Dinner – Shared seafood meze and ouzo at Atlantikos
- Dessert – Loukoumades with honey and cinnamon near Monastiraki
All for under €15–18 total — and I felt full, happy, and completely satisfied!
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to spend much to enjoy the flavors of Athens. The real charm of Greek food is in its simplicity, freshness, and love — and thankfully, that doesn’t come with a high price tag.
So if you’re heading to Athens on a budget, know this: you’ll eat like a king, without spending like one.
