What to Eat in Athens: A Food Guide

What to eat in Athens

• Souvlaki & gyros

  Grilled skewers or wrapped pita — Kostas (Athens) and Thanasis (Monastiraki) are the classics.

• Moussaka & pastitsio

  Baked eggplant/pasta layers — best at family-run tavernas in Plaka and Koukaki.

• Greek salad (horiatiki)

  Tomato, cucumber, feta, olives, red onion, oregano — no lettuce in a real Greek salad.

• Baklava & loukoumades

  Filo-and-honey classic; honey-drizzled dough puffs at Krinos (Aiolou St) since 1922.

What to drink

Tap water is safe in Athens. Retsina (pine-resin wine), ouzo (anise) and Assyrtiko whites from Santorini are the local specialities.

Dining etiquette and practicalities

• Lunch is the main meal (13:30–16:00); dinner rarely before 20:30 and often runs to midnight.

• Tipping 5–10% at tavernas is appreciated; round up in cafés and taxis.

• Bread and 'kouver' cover charge (€0.50–1.50) is standard and appears on the bill.

Where to eat in Athens

• Plaka

  Neoclassical old quarter under the Acropolis — tavernas, souvenirs and the most photogenic streets.

• Monastiraki & Psyrri

  Flea market, rooftop bars with Acropolis views and the buzziest evening scene.

• Koukaki

  Quiet residential base south of the Acropolis with excellent boutique hotels and cafés.

• Kolonaki

  Upscale designer shopping, Benaki Museum and the smartest cocktail bars.