— My Favorite Food Moments and Where to Eat Them —
If there’s one thing I’ll never forget about my time in Athens, it’s the food. Every meal felt like a warm hug — simple, fresh, full of flavor, and always served with a smile. From flaky pies at a street corner to slow-cooked dishes in cozy tavernas, Athens is a dream for food lovers.
Greek cuisine is rooted in tradition, but Athens also brings a modern twist to classic recipes. Whether you’re dining under the shadow of the Acropolis or grabbing a souvlaki from a busy street vendor, the city serves up unforgettable tastes at every corner. Here’s my personal guide to some must-try dishes and places where I had some of my most delicious moments.
Must-Try Dishes in Athens
1. Souvlaki & Gyros
No trip to Athens is complete without biting into freshly grilled souvlaki or a juicy gyro wrap, filled with seasoned meat, crispy fries, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki.
Where I loved it:
Kostas (near Syntagma Square) — A small, family-run place with simple wraps that taste heavenly. It’s been there for decades and always has a line — a good sign!
2. Moussaka
This baked dish of layered eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel is Greek comfort food at its best.
Where to try it:
Tavern Klimataria — A rustic, music-filled taverna hidden near the central market. The moussaka here was warm, rich, and felt like something a Greek grandmother would make.
3. Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
Crispy filo, savory spinach, and feta — perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Where to grab one:
Ariston Bakery — Located near Syntagma, this place is known for all kinds of savory pies. I had a warm spanakopita on the go and loved every bite.
4. Grilled Octopus & Seafood
Being close to the sea, Athens has no shortage of fresh seafood. Grilled octopus, calamari, and sardines are local favorites.
Where I enjoyed it:
Ouzeri Lesvos — A laid-back ouzeri in Exarchia with incredible seafood meze and a very local feel. Try the grilled octopus with ouzo — unforgettable!
5. Dakos Salad & Fava
For something light but flavorful, go for dakos (barley rusk topped with tomato, feta, and olive oil) or fava (yellow split pea puree) — both are Cretan and Cycladic influences you’ll find everywhere in Athens.
A great spot:
Avli — Tucked away in the Petralona neighborhood, this little courtyard restaurant has charming décor and delicious vegetarian plates.
Sweet Treats You Can’t Miss
- Loukoumades — Golden, honey-soaked dough balls sprinkled with cinnamon or sesame.
Try them at: Lukumades (Monastiraki area) — they even have filled versions! - Galaktoboureko — A semolina custard pie with crispy filo and syrup.
Try it at: Stani, an old-fashioned dairy bar that’s been serving desserts since 1931. - Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts — Simple, creamy, and divine.
Served perfectly at: Most cafés, but especially Fresko Yogurt Bar near the Acropolis.
Where to Eat with a View
One evening, we sat on a rooftop in Plaka, sipping wine and tasting grilled lamb while the Parthenon lit up above us. The view was magical.
My favorite spot:
Diodos — Set at the base of the Acropolis, the views are stunning and the food traditional yet affordable.
Modern Greek Cuisine: A Twist on Tradition
Athens isn’t only about old-school food. If you’re in the mood for modern takes on Greek cuisine, check out:
- Mani Mani – Near the Acropolis, offering creative dishes with flavors from the Mani region.
- To Kafeneio – In Plaka, cozy and a bit more upscale, with dishes like lamb with masticha sauce or baked feta in honey.
Final Thoughts
Food in Athens is more than just delicious — it’s a deep expression of culture, history, and hospitality. I never felt rushed, always welcomed, and each meal left me feeling not just full, but connected. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who loves to eat well, Athens will steal your heart one bite at a time.
