In 2014 Evripidou St, the “spice street” of Athens, became even more sensorily exciting with the opening of the restaurant-deli Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani, located in a old lovely stone house with a pretty, naturally-lit courtyard.
Perfect breakfast
Through this restaurant, a few years ago a second one opened on Ermou 119, as Fanis Theodoropoulos of the Arapian family, who came to Athens after the fall of Asia Minor in 1922, aims to honour the culinary traditions of the Byzantine ‘patromageireio’.
Being amongst the Greek Orthodox community from Turkey with origins in Cappadocia and Cilikia, who were known as Karamanlides, Theodoropoulos lovingly entices and satisfies the appetites with a whole host of meze and main dishes.
Both at the original restaurant on Evripidou and the new one on Ermou, artfully-made, freshly prepared and deeply flavoursome specialty dishes include pastourmas of beef, kavourmas (a terrine cooked with spices and egg), soutzouk, salamis coated with various spices, hams and aged PDO cheeses. The cured products are made by partner/producer Paraskevas Sarimiboyas at the Sary workshop in Drama, where even the Xinomavro vine leaves used for their juicy, tender dolmades are grown.
A must for all foodies
I had the pleasure to visit the newer restaurant (accompanied by the wonderfully vibrant and Athens-savvy Livin’ Lovin’ tour guide Katerina Tsipiti who introduced me to the new place), try some of the flavours and interview Theodoropoulos, who joked that soon his family will be permanently locking him out of the house as he dedicates so much time and effort on perfecting the two restaurants. He also explained that the main difference at the twin restaurant on Ermou is that it has a wood-fire oven where fluffy, lightweight pies and breads are baked on the spot, which is why it’s called “to ergastiri” (the workshop).
We tried a delicious taramosalata with Greek bottarga, rice-only dolmadakia, kavourmas, beef pastourmas pie and spinach pie, accompanied by icy tsipouro. Apart from many types of raki, tsipouro and wines, the restaurant also serves a satisfying variety of Greek craft beers. Turkish dessert lovers shouldn’t miss out on baklava, Kiounefe and kazan dipi, made with pure butter, as well as phoney and sesame pasteli, baklava, rice milk and homemade jams.
Athens is home to hundreds of great restaurants and if you are planning a trip to the Greek capital and looking for a few culinary gems that are leading the way in haute cuisine, we’ve put together a list of the Top 20 gourmet restaurants in Athens that have received Michelin distinction in various categories.
Athens culinary scene is thriving and there are now two restaurants in Athens with 2 Michelin stars, three restaurants with 1 Michelin star, another three gained a Bib Gourmand and 12 have received a Plate Michelin. No matter how long you’re in Athens, where you’re staying, or what you may be craving for your next meal- they are all well worth a visit- and we highly recommend you bookmark this list!
Spondi | 2 Michelin Star
Being named Greece’s leading French restaurant, since it first opened in 1996 it has stood out for its innovative and creative approach to cooking and magnificent food presentation. Featuring two lovely courtyards and two stunning dining rooms, the award-winning chefs create dishes using fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients; and there’s also an impressive Greek, French and Italian wine list to choose from. Signature dishes: Langoustine with Eucalyptus, Tapioca and Radish, Challans duck with Carrot, Pine and Praline and for dessert- Coffee with Lemon Thyme and Hazelnut.
A: 5 Pyrronos, Pangrati
Botrini’s | 1 Michelin Star
Botrini’s is a modern, creative, Greek-Mediterranean restaurant that’s elegant, stylish, and features a large garden with large white rotundas. Since it opened in 2014, the restaurant has received a Michelin Star seven times for its ambitious menu, professionalism, and ultra-creative high-end flavours. Signature dishes: Swordfish Carpaccio ‘Fishermen Style’, Milk-fed Lamb with Aubergine and Fig Pie; and for dessert try the Peach with Champagne and White Chocolate.
A: Vas. Georgiou B, 24 b, Halandri
Hytra | 1 Michelin Star
Modern Mediterranean Hytra, is located in the Onassis Cultural Centre. In 2020, the restaurant received another second Michelin star and take note that it is normally located on the sixth floor but during the warmer month it moves to the scenic seventh-floor rooftop- offering diners majestic views of the Acropolis and Mount Lycabettus. Signature dishes: Tomato, Watermelon, Strawberry and Sweet Alyssum, Cod with Ramson Capers, Kombu and Juniper and for dessert- Lemon with Basil, Vanilla Biscuit and Olive Oil Ice Cream.
A: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 107-109, Athina
Varoulko Seaside | 1 Michelin Star
This leading seafood restaurant located in Piraeus is a fine dining experience, where guests can taste quality seafood cuisine prepared by the famous chef Lefteris Lazarou while enjoying the picturesque views of the Mikrolimano Marina. Signature dishes: Red Mullet Tartare with Florina Pepper, Raisins and Bottarga Powder, Grouper with Beets, Broccolini, Black Garlic and Béarnaise Sauce; and for dessert- Cherry Ganache with Pistachio Mousse, Hibiscus and Kaimaki Sorbet.
A: Akti Koumoundourou 54, Piraeus
Cookoovaya | Plate Michelin
This Micheli recommended restaurant features an open plan kitchen and a beautiful modern dining room. Cookoovaya’s five local chefs- Periklis Koskinas, Manos Zournatzis, Vaggelis Liakos, Spyros Liakos, Nikos Karathanos use the freshest seasonal and local ingredients to create stand out dishes without losing authentic Greek tastes and flavours.
A: Chatzigianni Mexi 2a, Athina
GB Roof Garden | Plate Michelin
Located at one of the city’s most prestigious, elegant and imposing hotels, the Grande Bretagne. GB’s pronounced Mediterranean influences are presented in haute cuisine compilations. Flavours are fresh, rich and true to their quality ingredients. Don’t expect experimental or highly gourmet gastronomy, although creativity and finesse are definitely not lacking.
A: Vasileos Georgiou 1 A, Syntagma (8TH Floor)
Electra Rooftop | Plate Michelin
On the 10th floor of the popular Electra Metropolis Hotel, you’ll find one of the very best rooftop terraces in Athens, which is usually buzzing with both local and foreign guests tasting Mediterranean flavours.
A: Mitropoleos 15, Athina
2 Mazi | Plate Michelin
This creative Greek cuisine restaurant is located on the outskirts of Plaka. Featuring a charming alfresco area, the contemporary Greek cuisine dishes are made from seasonal and local produce. There is also a good selection of local wines by the glass.
A: 48 Nikis Street, Athens
Sushimou | Plate Michelin
Chef-owner Antonis Drakoularakos, trained in Tokyo to master Japanese cuisine and this amazing eatery offers the finest of what’s available at the fish market that day. It’s a tiny 12-seater eatery and although there is a menu, Antonis prefers his diners allow him to choose, according to their preferences.
A: 6 Skoufou, Athens
Alficon | Plate Michelin
Located within a charming neoclassical building on Ironda Street, two young and talented chefs Elvi-Dimitris Zymba and Nikos Vorias create a short seasonal menu featuring contemporary Greek dishes that are served on a pretty pavement terrace. Note, there’s also a good organic Greek wines list to choose from.
A: 8 Ironda, Athens
Birdman | Plate Michelin
This cool Japanese eatery serves great noodles, meat plates, beef nigiri and other enticing snacks that are paired well with their lush cocktails.
A: 35 Voulis, Athens
Ergon House | Plate Michelin
Located at the world’s first-ever “foodie hotel”, Ergon House is not only a wonderful agora filled with local artisan produce but also a great place to taste simple, Mediterranean dishes using local, seasonal produce. The enticing menu includes small bites, sharing boards and generous main dishes.
A: 23 Mitropoleos, Athens
Sense Restaurant | Plate Michelin
Located on the splendid rooftop of Athens Was Hotel, Sense offers majestic views from two beautiful dining areas (indoor and outdoor). With an open kitchen, you can watch Chef Charalambopoulos prepare his creative and seasonal Greek dishes.
A: 5 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Athens
CTC | Plate Michelin
Taste eye-catching dishes from award-winning chef, Alexandros Tsiotinis, and his talented team who like to push the boundaries. Choose between three surprise tasting menus with a modern blend of Greek and Gallic flavours.
A: 14 Oumplianis, Athens
Vezene | Plate Michelin
This popular steakhouse is a contemporary eatery that serves wood-fired Greek regional plates and seafood, plus a Sunday roast menu. One of the most popular items on the menu is the mouthwatering mini Wagyu Burger (try to stop at one!)
A: Vrasida 11, Athens
Oikeio | Bib Gourmand
Located in Athens’ chic Kolonaki neighbourhood, you can choose to eat indoors (on two levels) or outside. Serving amazing homestyle dishes made using locally sourced produce, this modern Greek taverna is like a cosy Parisian bistro in the heart of Athens.
A: Ploutarchou 15, Athina
Aneton | Plate Michelin
In 2005 Dimitris Fotopoulos first opened Aneton’s doors in a quiet northern suburb of Athens and after huge success, 15 years later, moved to the Historic Centre of Athens becoming a local and international visitors favourite. Expect a seasonal menu that is Mediterranean- inspired in summer, and in winter features traditional stews and casseroles.
A: 3 Navarchou Nikodimou, Athens
Nolan | Bib Gourmand
Greek-Japanese chef Sotiris Kontizas is the brainchild behind an unfussy yet sophisticated list of dishes that Michelin has awarded with the Bib Gourmand. The ambience at Nolan is modern, upbeat and vibrant, the flavours are memorable and sometimes very exciting, and the service is fast and professional.
A: Nikis 31-33, Syntagma
7 Food Sins | Bib Gourmand
A gourmet Greek Gastro Pub in the heart of Plaka, the most historic Athenian district! Gourmet dishes created by awarded chef Dimos Samourakis. 7 Food Sins offers a distinguished atmosphere and exquisite Greek dishes.
A: Plateia Filomousou Etaireias 1, Athina
Funky Gourmet | 2 Michelin Star
Having been labelled the best restaurant in Greece on many occasions, Funky Gourmet is a contemporary Greek restaurant that is loved for its innovative dishes delivered as 3 multi-course tasting menus, which change regularly, depending on available seasonal ingredients. Currently relocating (rumoured to be at Athens Hilton Hotel) local and international visitors are eager for the re-opening (watch this space).
Minu is one of those places that is hard to describe in one word. However, they manage to sum themselves up in three: plants, objects, cafe.
Minu is a charmingly designed sanctuary in the heart of Athens’ Psyrri district, where you can shop hard-to-find homewares, peruse (and get lost in) an extensive collection of plants, or sit back with a refreshment in the elegant courtyard. Of course, at one point or another, you’ll end up doing all three of these things.
The low down… As soon as you step into Minu, you’re taken in by the exotic plants that seem to softly envelop you from all angles, designer homewares and unique gifts (think copies of Kinfolk magazine and glassware that Don Draper himself would insist upon). Walk a little further in to find a long coffee counter stacked with freshly baked cakes, friendly staff and beautifully situated seating options for groups and couples. The cafe/bar is self-service, so place your order at the counter and be sure to explore the entire space before you take a seat as the space is filled with rare plants and surprising touches in every nook. The challenge you’ll face at Minu is deciding on one place to settle in.
Type of cuisine? Minu is a delight for the senses, and this philosophy is carried through to the food on offer. The menu at Minu has been designed by Athinagoras Kostakos (a rising star in Greek cuisine, currently the culinary director at Scorpios Mykonos and Meraki London) and features fresh flavours, artfully presented.
Décor/ Ambience? A thoughtfully designed space, Minu combines an aesthetic mix of Scandinavian minimalism with touches of art deco. Attention has been paid to every detail, from the sprawling pink marble bar to the bathroom tapware. The ambience is decidedly serene and is perfect for intimate catch-ups, informal meetings, or even solo dining with your favourite book, or a design journal you picked up from the gift store.
Menu? Brunch is the sweet spot on Minu’s menu, including the house-favourite Happy Egg Bowl with poached eggs and avocado or the aptly named Scrambleness. The menu varies seasonally and also includes salads, bao buns and a pork katsu sando to remember.
Something to drink? By day, there is a great range of coffee, healthy smoothies and tea on offer. In the evening hours, give their house Negroni a try, or sample a perfectly chilled glass of Biblia Xora rosé.
Price range? Brunch is priced between 8-16€
Location? Sarri 50, Athens
Opening hours/days? Open from 09.00-23.00 Monday – Sunday
Despite its ancient age, Athens is always blossoming with novelty of every kind – edible and drinkable being among the most exciting forms.
After a year of home delivery Athenians are rejoicing that they can be their good, old extrovert selves and spend endless hours dining out under the sky while watching the world go by. Here are the five hottest new food places to visit ASAP.
Dopios
Near the Varvakios Market, you’ll find Dopios (Skouleniou 1 in Aghio Theodoroi Sq), which is themed on Asian cuisine and meze dishes and has a menu created by well-reputed chef Christoforos Peskias. Try almirikia boiled greens with Japanese-style oil and lemon sauce, or black garlic sauce (skordarlia) with popcorn shrimps. Although culturally playful the meze restaurant aims to showcase authentic Greek products made by local producers and small farms.
Galiantra
Greek street food served from a food truck in an old parking lot-turned pebble-covered eating space is what you’ll find at this new alfresco eatery in Metaxourgeio (Avdi Square, Iatrakou 4). Chef Gogo Deligianni invites guests to seat themselves on colourful barrels and soak up the summery Athenian vibes. Try the grilled meatballs (keftedakia) or soya sloppy joes with dairy-free mayo for vegans, the fish n chips and salad with strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and graviera cheese, and sip an icy cocktail.
Cherry Blossom
What’s a 50s American diner doing in the centre of Psyrri (Lepeniotou 26)?Cherry Blossom is like a time travel machine with checkered black and white tile floors, waitresses in A-line skirts, and cute neon signs. It serves American classics like burgers with gooey cheese pouring down the side, tall ice cream smoothies, sticky ribs, and fried eggs on stewed meat. Good old-fashioned comfort food a la Americana for anyone tired of souvlaki.
Tzoutzouka
At Tzoutzouka in Rouf (Meg. Vasiliou 32) you shouldn’t expect the food to be artfully presented and perfectly Instagrammable, but you should definitely expect it to be flavoursome and authentic. Local recipes with bolshy creative touches by chef Argyro Koutsou evoke feelings of childhood nostalgia in Greeks and are made using lovingly grown, high-quality local ingredients from small farms. Try the fava from Schinousa with fresh pickled calamari, lemony giouvetsi with Tinos country sausage, and stuffed aubergines.
Manouka
More of a wine bar than a restaurant, this new place on the roof garden of Utopia Hotel (Ermou 46) overlooking the Acropolis, Lycabettus, and the Athens Metropolis Cathedral serves a great variety of protected designation of origin (POP) products along with over 100 Greek wine labels. The all-day menu includes dishes as varied as finger foods, snacks, cheese, and cold cuts platters, burgers, scrambled eggs, and prawn dumplings.
The culturally rich and cool Athenian neighbourhood of Psirri is packed with precious antiques, talented local artisans, authentic Greek tavernas, boho bars, charming cafes and loads of visitors who come here time and time again to enjoy a spot where the modern world blends in beautifully with old-time charm.
With so many eateries to choose from, we’ve rounded up 16 of the best restaurants and taverns in Psirri, for your next visit to the Greek capital!
Arodou– This mezedopolio also has a live band for guests to enjoy platters of dishes while listening to traditional Greek music.
Voliotiko– A traditional tsipouradiko, it serves authentic Greek dishes and flavours, which are served indoors or in the charming courtyard.
Oineas Restaurant- Has a mix of traditional and modern dishes that are based on fresh, seasonal produce.
Stou Mamma– By far one of the more modern taverns in the neighbourhood when it comes to both decor and dishes; as the chef takes traditional recipes and adds modern twists.
Krasopoulio Tou Kokkora– Once a historic music tavern, this long time local favourite serves homemade dishes, including the chef’s “plate of the day.”
I Orea Penteli – Known for its grilled meat platters, this authentic taverna also serves great side dishes to add to your mains.
Avli– A lovely spot where you can eat authentic dishes (cooked over a gas stove) in the charming “Avli” (garden).
Lithos– With both indoor and outdoor dining spaces, Lithos is a mezedopolio, where you can enjoy traditional Greek food and live music.
Kafenio Tis Ivis– This tsipouradiko is popular amongst locals, who come here to catch up with friends in a casual setting.
Atlantikos– For the freshest seafood in the heart of Athens, this psarotaverna has a huge range of grilled fish, octopus and lots of other seafood.
Taverna Tou Psirri– Traditional tavern with indoor and outdoor areas, with a range of meat, seafood and vegetarian plates to choose from.
Odos Aisxylou– If you are searching for a traditional grill house, this is it. Any meat you can think of is grilled to perfection and served with a side of your choice.
Nikitas – One of the most popular taverns amongst locals and international visitors, Nikitas’ has a great reputation for both its food and service.
Gostijo– This is the only kosher restaurant in Psirri, serving Sephardic Mediterranean cuisine.
Mavros Gatos– It’s a small, hole-in-the-wall, authentic Greek tavern serving a range of classics from dolmadakia and moussaka through to crispy pites (pies) and homemade sweets.
Oinopoleion Cookhouse– A great choice if you are in search of an old-style tavern (surrounded by greenery) that serves good food and has live music.
Chill out at the city’s top open-air courtyard (avli) cafe-restaurants, enjoying the perfect blend of a laid-back crowd, delicious food and drinks, cool aesthetics, and a casual, outdoorsy feeling that breezily helps one to escape the heat of urban life.
Dexameni Kafeneion
With tiny tables set out on either side of a pedestrian hillside leading to Kolonaki’s Dexameni Sq, this cafe is busy throughout the year from noon until midnight, but especially enjoyable during summer. Come for a coffee and a snack at lunchtime or cramp meze dishes onto your table (mainly based on simple, tasty Greek recipes such as keftedakia, lentil salad, fries with cheese, strapatsada eggs, octopus, fava) before heading to Dexameni open-air cinema. There is also a spacious playground here.
A: Dexameni Square, Kolonaki
@myrillas
Latraac Skate Cafe
As the home to Athens’ only skateboard bowl, this cafe is ideal for parents whose kids enjoy skateboarding and can roll away the hours skating in the birch-plywood bowl while adults enjoy a refreshment with friends. Latraac features an all-day breakfast menu (the pancakes here are popular) and also serves sandwiches, coffees, and cocktails. At night the chilled and trendy cafe becomes a buzzy bar that organises live Dj sets and occasional cultural events.
A: Leonidou 63-65, Metaxourgeio
Vryssaki Cafe
Sip homemade lemonade or iced herbal tea either in the small downstairs courtyard or the upstairs terrace at Vryssaki, an old Athenian mansion-turned cafe that also functions as a multi-arts space for classes, workshops, exhibitions, performances, and talks. Enjoy a cozy homey feel indoors during winter and the notion of sitting on a friend’s picturesque balcony in warmer weather – looking out across the ceramic-tiled rooftops of Plaka and up to the Parthenon.
A: 17 Vrysakiou St, Plaka
Six Dogs Courtyard Cafe
Upon entering the space here it’s like suddenly stepping from the heart of the city – which is exactly where it is, just off busy Athinas St in Monastiraki – into a large, multi-tiered, gravel-floored campsite cafe. With plenty of greenery, comfortable seating offering different perspectives, a hip but not pretentious vibe, and an excellent choice of foods (from pizza or a Vietnamese sandwich to a refreshing homemade watermelon drink and signature cocktails). On the street-level above are the other Six Dogs spaces where edgy gigs and heavy partying take place nightly, in summer often spilling out onto the street. (Address: 6-8 Avramiotou, Monastiraki). This is more of a restaurant than a cafe, but definitely welcoming for anyone only interested in coffee and dessert-like Chocolate Cremeux or Hot Walnut cake during the afternoon hours (it opens at 13:00 but does not accept reservations). The large and airy Exarcheia yard is shaded by trees and has a refreshingly tasty, creative, and very reasonably priced menu of Greek and Mediterranean meze dishes. Even at its busiest (and it’s usually packed), service is attentive and friendly.
A: 69 Kallidromiou, Exarcheia
Black Duck Garden
This charming garden boasts lush greenery that is paired with marble tables and black chairs, giving it a cool and sophisticated vibe. Black Duck Garden is not only a cafe, it’s also a bar, gallery, museum and event centre where many local artists come to feature their work. From a light brunch menu and coffee through to dinner and cocktails, this place is a must-visit when you visit Athens and are looking for a spot to stay cool during the summer heat as you sip on your coffee!
Keri Golas was creating and making things ever since her childhood in Philadelphia PA, but hadn’t imagined then that she’d be opening a stylish souvlaki restaurant in Athens one day.
Driven by a thirst to explore the art world, Keri studied visual arts in university, focusing on metal sculpture, printmaking, and glass blowing. Food was her other passion and skill and especially unique and cultural foods that she often convinced her family to try. Cooking for family and friends has always been one of her greatest pleasures, although she also cooked professionally for several years and many different restaurants.
What brought you to Greece?
I met my husband in Philadelphia, PA, and we decided to get married and move back to Greece, which he always knew he wanted. I was always up for travelling and adventure, so jumped right in and we came to Greece to live and start a family at the very end of 2005 and have been here since. We now have three children, all with a deep love and appreciation for good food, maybe to a fault!
Why did you decide to open Nomsy? And why Glyfada?
I cook constantly and my husband has thought about me opening something for a long time, and I’ve always thought about doing something with cooking but wasn’t sure what. While my husband doesn’t cook much himself, he grew up around and worked in his father’s business, “O Thanasis” in Monastiraki, Athens. He appreciates good food and the world of restaurants and knows the business pretty well.
Glyfada was a happy accident. We live in the northern suburbs, so were looking for something closer to home, when a friend of ours introduced us to a RE agent in Glyfada with a few well-priced options. And we found something we were happy with and went for it. In the end, we decided to go in the direction of the business my husband and his sister knew so well, with a modern and maybe somewhat American style from me. And, Nomsy was born.
What does Nomsy mean?
We liked Nomsy because we felt like it bridged the two worlds in a smart way, “nostimo gefsi” and nom-nom – which is a food expression for “incredible tasty” used in the US.
What is the main concept of the restaurant?
Modern day Athenian foods made with great care and respect to their history, while introducing new ways to see and experience these flavours.
Can you give us a glimpse of your menu?
We have many of the traditional kebab, skewers, gyros dishes, but we make and process all the meat ourselves with our own recipes. We have a unique Black Angus gyros, and do not sell any pork. We have some international influences or fusions, and just try to keep things fresh, healthy and done well, we added a few vegetarian and vegan options as I think this important to include.
Will you will be introducing more meat-free dishes to Nomsy’s menu in future?
I was a vegetarian for a long time and know that it can be hard to find a restaurant that includes both meats and vegetarian options on their menu, so wanted to have something that went along with our food concept, was fun and tasty. Of course, I have so many ideas of things we could do, but we take it slow, and as business gets better we will start to introduce more items and change things to try new ideas out.
Any future plans?
My husband and I are really focused on creating a great place to work and eat in the Athens area. Somewhere that inspires people and shares the passion and beauty of Greece with them. We really care about people having a great experience with us. Part of my need to create things and cook for people is that I have a deep desire to bring joy, beauty, and a deep caring to people’s lives. Food is a great, and very accessible way to do this.
Few things are more delightfully decadent than catching up with good friends over a cup of tea. From hotel restaurants to proper teahouses, here’s where to go on the weekend (or any day of the week really) for the best tea Athens has to offer!
Grande Bretagne Hotel
The ultimate “proper” English afternoon tea drinking ritual can be enjoyed in the polished Winter Garden City Lounge of Athens’ plushest hotel. The service is set for two and you can choose from a variety of 16 classic and lesser known tea blends. Friendly to the philosophy expressed by the Dowager Countess (so exquisitely played by Maggie Smith) in Downton Abbey, “nothing succeeds like excess”; and fully honouring authentic the British high tea tradition, your blend of choice will be served in an elaborate China teapot and cups along with warm scones and fresh clotted cream, to be topped with the hotel’s rich marmalades; fluffy white finger sandwiches filled with cucumber or egg mayonnaise with cress or smoked salmon, vibrantly coloured macarons, profiteroles and other pastries.
A:1 Vasileos Georgiou A’, Syntagma Square
“A woman is like a teabag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
To Tsai
With an award winning architectural design (architect Giorgos Batzios was awarded the European Architecture Awards for his design in 2017), To Tsai serves and sells tea varieties from around the world in pots relevant to where the tea comes from – Japanese tea is served in cast iron pots, Chinese tea in clay pots from Yixing and other teas in porcelain pots. Over 500 varieties imported from tea-producing countries by Mlensa Hellas are served in the warm yet minimal environment. Soft lighting concealed behind rows of timbre panels, (“to resemble a sunrise”, the architect has said) creates a Zen Japanese vibe that enhances the feeling of restoration. To Tsai also serves a high quality selection of light meals such as freshly made salads, eggs Benedict and quiches as well as desserts, including vegan options. A great option for a business brunch.
A: Alexandrou Soutsou 19, Kolonaki
“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.” C.S. Lewis
Petite Fleur
Now with three stores in Athens (Kolonaki, Pangrati and Halandri), this cozy cafe serves around 25 varieties of ethically sourced tea blends in a colourful, stylish environment. With a mix of old school charm and a playful vintage theme (a piano, ‘60s vinyl records, an old record player, faux early-19th Century tiled floor, a jazz music soundtrack and furniture reminiscent of the Belle Epoque in Paris) it serves heartwarming teas such as Ceylon Black Wood with orange peel and cinnamon stick, green gun powder and Kusmi, as well as a delectable variety of hot chocolate and coffee beverages, always accompanied by delicious desserts and satisfying snacks. The perfect spot for catching up with a friend for a few hours of serious banter.
“I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.” – Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Madras – House of Tea for sophisticated takeaway
Inside the Bolani Stoa in central Athens you’ll find this delightful little store, which boasts one of the largest varieties of tea in Europe – 400 to be precise, with imports for 14 tea producing countries in Asia and Africa. With 45 years of experience under his belt, owner Stefanos Papatzialas has a well-trained staff of flavour experts who can explain, inform and recommend brands and varieties. The Madras company also creates their own trademark blends with aromatic plants and fruits, with wild, organic, pest-free Greek herbs and more. Here and in the Piraeus store you can take tea to go rather than linger over a cuppa, but the proprietors are planning to open a store in Athens where customers can drink tea in house. Just what you need when you’re on the go on a cold winter day.
A: 7 Voulis, in Stoa Bolani, Syntagma, Notara 21, Piraeus
“Tea … is a religion of the art of life.” – Kazuko Okakura
Cafe Taf
One of the capital’s best coffee shops also serves a great cup of tea. Selling a broad variety of herbal, fruit and black or red tea loose leaf blends created by the British Suki Tea brand, first set up in 2005 by Annie and Oscar. Popular choices include Lemon and Ginger, Red Berry, Green Tea Sencha and Mango Tango but there are also more classical blends like Earl Grey and Breakfast Tea. The ambiance is urban chic with colourful touches and minimal furnishings, perfect for a working morning.
A: Emmanouil Benaki 7-9, Exarcheia
“If you are cold, tea will warm you;
if you are too heated, it will cool you;
If you are depressed, it will cheer you;
If you are excited, it will calm you.” – William Ewart Gladstone
Since opening in June 2020, the trademark “I love you” fountain at the entrance of Noah has welcomed a steady stream of visitors. Nestled into the side of Parko Eleftherias, the chaos of nearby Vasilissis Sofias is instantly forgotten thanks to the thoughtfully designed space, leafy garden and ambient beats that instantly relax the senses and transport you to a far-away place.
Type of cuisine? At Noah, the menu changes seasonally. During its first summer the menu at Noah focused on vibrant Mexican flavours. The winter menu offers mixed European fare, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Type of eatery? Noah is ideal for a cocktail and a snack any day or night of the week. Dinner in the Noah garden is perfect for a special occasion, date or long overdue catch up with the crew.
The low down… Anyone who lives in the centre of Athens knows just how chaotic the city can be. Just a short stroll from the relentless bustle of Vasilissis Sofias, Noah manages to create an exotic, island vibe in the heart of the city.
Décor/ Ambience? Reminiscent of a Spanish villa with hues of burnt orange and turquoise and rustic accents, Noah completes the summer oasis experience with bohemian exotic house beats and a roster of DJs throughout the week.
Menu? By day, Noah serves up a bright and tasty brunch menu from 10am-2pm. Think avocado toast, healthy bowls, shakshuka and smoothies. By night, the menu is designed for sharing and includes salads, starters, a raw selection, pasta, pizza cooked in a stone oven, and mains. Standouts include the skirt steak salad, occhi ragu and zucchini pizza.
Something to drink? There is a handsome selection of European wines, however cocktails like the rum-based Yo Hoho or the Jamon y Melon featuring mastic, melon and a surprising garnishing of jamon should not be overlooked.
Order my fave dish? Without a doubt, the beef tartare is fast becoming Noah’s unofficial signature dish. The usual components (beef, egg yolk, onion and seasoning) are mixed to your liking and served in front of you.
Price range? Brunch dishes at Noah are priced between 9-12 €. For dinner, entrees, pasta and pizzas range between 10 to 15 € and mains between 20 to 40 €.
Location? Parko Eleftherias, Megaro Mousikis, Athens 11521. Bookings can made for dinner +30 21 0723 3419
Opening hours/days? Open every day from 10am until late.
Ahead of its time, when Nice N Easy opened in Kolonaki in 2008 it introduced a way of eating to the Greek public that was relatively unknown at the time: food that’s designed to be delicious as well as highly nutritious.
Vegetarians and vegans can find numerous options to suit their dietary needs, while meat-eaters can choose from dishes made with well-farmed meats. Since then, owners Eirini, Dimitris and Chris (the latter being the executive chef) have developed a loyal clientele by continuing to serve top quality farm-to-table, organic food made with ingredients sourced from small producers. Today, Nice N Easy can be found in Kolonaki as well as Kifissia and Mykonos.
Type of cuisine? Farm-to-table Mediterranean – North American – Fusion. Healthy comfort food with a sophisticated, contemporary style.
Type of eatery? An all-day restaurant with a well-curated menu that offers plenty of options for every taste. Stylish, modern, spacious and fun, both because of its décor and its friendly, professional service. You can dress up or dress down, there’s no pressure to look the part.
The low down… The Kolonaki restaurant has become one of my favourite hangouts, not only for its endless options of delicious and healthy dishes but also because of its buzzy, uplifting ambiance – which truly is nice n easy! – and chic but unpretentious crowd. Open-air in summer and enclosed by transparent curtains in the colder months, its outdoorsiness is pleasant, and not only for Covid-related reasons. It has become my ideal place to meet friends on a Friday night for a wonderful bottle of wine (the wine list includes many Greek and international labels of the highest quality) or cocktail and a large selection of tasty bites. It’s also great for a Sunday brunch, whether you’re craving creamy, oozy eggs benedict (here served both in the classic rendition and a Greek version) or super healthy Spa Omelet or avocado toast and juice-veggie smoothies.
Décor/ Ambience? Having spent many years working in the food industry and often catering for Hollywood in the US, co-owner Dimitris brought with him his love of the golden years of the world’s most stellar film industry. The restaurant’s menu and décor are thus themed on legendary film stars and their incandescent glamour. Eat under the gaze of Frank Sinatra and Marylin Monroe, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall.
Entrees? If you’re here for wine and bites in the middle, go for the Laurence Olivier lollipop-style chicken wings, the Anne Baxter fried calamari on a tarama spread, the Marvin Gaye grilled meatballs with sweet potato hummus or the Diana Ross fresh tuna tartare with fresh and dried strawberries. Other good entrees are the Otis Redding buffalo burrata with pistachio pesto and the Power Bowl with quinoa, sweet potato, pomegranate, beluga lentils and avocado.
Mains? The mains include a vegan menu, pasta dishes, burgers and meat or fish-based dishes. Meat eaters should try the Clark Gable slow-cooked pata negra steak, Marlon Brando cheeseburger with caramelised onions, coleslaw and pickled cucumbers while vegans can choose the Cary Grant burger. For a twist of healthy Asian flavour don’t miss out on the Brigitte Bardot konjac root noodles, and for a hearty Italian-inspired pasta dish try the Sophia Loren with skioufihta traditional pasta, gruyere, wild mushrooms and truffle paste.
Something to drink? With a quality wine and cocktail menu, there are numerous choices to enjoy, and you can ask the restaurant’s sommelier for pairing advice too. If you want a cocktail that’s in your thirsty imagination rather than the menu, feel free to ask the barman to create it for you.
Desserts: When it comes to sweets, Nice N Easy likes to indulge its visitors with classic American and European specialties like Banoffee pie, Profiterole and Galaktoboureko. However, if you’d rather stick to your healthy eating plan, they produce a fantastic – lactose and sugar free – ice cream made by a specialist gelato artisan in Greece with olive oil and served in hazelnut, vanilla, chocolate and mango flavours.
Price range? Around 35 € per head for a three-course meal excluding drinks
When it rains, there’s nothing better than finding a spot inside one of Athens’ cosy cafes, sitting back and sipping on a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee of your choice, while opening up a book and enjoying some good old fashion reading. So, we’ve compiled a list of five of our favourite cafes where you can do just that!
Tree Book Café A bookshop-café where you can get as flirty as you can get nerdy, this charming Makryianni hangout serves coffee, tea and light snacks with a side of literature. If you want to read undisturbed by chatter it’s probably preferable to sit inside, where it’s a little quieter, but either way, the stylishly bookish atmosphere will inspire you to hold up your book with pride.
This is Athens’ only real tea room, with a minimalist Japanese -colonial feel and a huge range of teas from around the world, served properly by expert staff. As you may imagine the ambience is tranquil, ideal for tea lovers who enjoy a non-frenetic chat and who like to savour their tea as much as the silence. This is a great place to cozy up with a good read while sipping premium matcha.
A: Alexandrou Soutsou 29, Kolonaki
Bios Just because this place has such an artsy and intellectual vibe, it’s ideal for doing something as civilized as reading a good book. Apart from the large ground-floor bar-café area, there is also an upstairs lounge where you can discover the solitude – or something closer to it – that you seek on a busier day.
A: Pireos 84, Gazi
The Daily Perhaps the only real remaining ‘residential’, laid back café in shop- and people-centric Kolonaki, The Daily is a great place – day or night – to enjoy some page-turning solo time. It’s central but not too much so and serves refreshing homemade teas and lemonade as well as quality coffee.
If you like reading while sipping amazing coffee in a naturally-lit, airy space, this is the place for you. Housed in a neoclassical villa and with small tables as well as a long bench, this leafy, high-ceilinged locale was designed for individuals. Since it opened it has received numerous annual barista awards and apart from excellent coffee and a soothing vibe it also serves a delicious brunch menu.
There’s the Asian food district under Syntagma Square, Indian and Pakistani food in Psyrri and many, many other ethnic food places in pockets of the city that have sprouted up in recent years.
Here’s our guide to the ones you definitely shouldn’t miss! NB. In case of lockdown, or if you simply can’t get to these places, all are also available on home delivery apps like E-food and Wolt.
MULTI-CULTI MENUS
Would you prefer an Indian samosa or, a Mexican chimichanga or burrito, a middle eastern tabbouleh salad or an Asian-style salad with stir-fried veggies and prawns? If you can’t make your mind up– or want a combination of ethnic foods– go to Etnico (Kolokotroni 22, Monastiraki) where there are plenty of options to choose from. There are also a sufficient amount of vegan options on the menu. Migada serves everything from Thai Tom Kha Gai soup to Asian noodles, falafels, Mexican tacos and Indian curries (Praxitelous 8, Monastiraki). Their menu is separated into sections based on explorer’s journeys to different parts of the world and including the ingredients and dishes found there. They also serve a satisfying amount of vegan and vegetarian dishes (including a delicious vegan chocolate cake).
INDIAN
In recent years some of Athens’ Indian restaurants have created the ‘Indian souvlaki’, which makes for a perfect takeaway wrap if you’re not in the mood for the Greek souvlaki because you fancy something more exotic. Mirch (Ermou 109, Thisseio) serves the most popular one of this type, made with a large thin nan bread stuffed with chicken tikka, raita and mixed vegetables and cut in half. Bollywood Masala (Fokionos 4) makes the same chicken tikka souvlaki, as well as an onion bhaji souvlaki and Indian-style kebab souvlaki. Both also serve easy-to-eat-out samosas and poppadoms.
PAKISTANI
Pak Tika Tak (Menandrou 13, Psyrri) serves spicy kebabs and chicken tikka wraps as well as several vegetarian options like rice with chickpeas or vegetable curry.
For the rare pleasure of trying Pakistani sweets to much along the street or take home, go to Sitara Sweets and Bakery (Menandrou 14, Psyrri). Here you’ll find authentic, homemade traditional desserts like gulab jamun, jalebi and barfi. You can also get a plate of pani puri (crisp fried crepe-like dough balls stuffed with imli pani flavored water, chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion or chickpeas, that’s very hard to find elsewhere in Athens!
Pak Tika Tak
Sitara Sweets and Bakery
MIDDLE EASTERN
At Baba Ganoush (Embedokleous 25-27, Varnava Sq. Pangrati) you’ll find top quality falafel (served with either hummus, yogurt sauce or baba ganoush) but not only. You can also try their middle eastern-style burgers, either in a vegan or vegetarian rendition, with a patty made of quinoa and sweet potato that’s topped with yogurt-harissa sauce, pickles, onion and ketchup. Over the last decade falafels have become one of the staple streetfoods in Athens and although not yet even close to overshadowing the reign of souvlaki, the increasing number of health minded Greeks are opting for crunchy chickpea balls over meat more every day. Falafel Abu Milad (Liosion 1, Omonia) is considered one of the best in town for both vegetarians and meat eaters. It makes well-seasoned falafels that are fried to crunchy perfection and served in a pitta with various seasonings of your choice. Here you’ll also find sandwiches with chicken or lamb kebab with a homemade sauce and chicken on a stick with hummus.
Falafel Abu Milad
At Baba Ganouch
Meanwhile Feyrouz (Karori 23 & Agathonos, Psyrri) serves up delicious lachmajun (thin pita bread slathered with minced meat and sauce but here also in a vegan rendition with zaatar spices and walnuts), a bready pie (peinirli) stuffed with a lentil, chickpea, hummus and aubergine filling and sprinkled with fresh coriander, and even desserts like baklava.
At Sumsum (Solonos 86, Exarcheia) you’ll find Arab street food like mutabal, a pitta bread wrap filled with lamb or beef mince and bana ganoush, or falafel wraps with hummus as well as lachmajun and taouk pitta which is stuffed with chicken, yogurt and herbs. Salads and soups of the day are also available for takeout.
THAI
Several quality Thai restaurants have opened in Athens over the last few years, but Tuk Tuk (Veikou 40, Koukaki) is the first street food version of Thai, which is surprising considering that in Thailand it’s the street food that rules! From spicy Papaya Salad with dried prawns and peanuts and Khanom Jeeb Mu steamed Pork Dumplings to Tom Kha Gai coconut milk curry soup and Pad Thai noodles, you’ll find all the street classics here in relatively authentic versions.
Feyrouz
Sumsum
VIETNAMESE
An exciting new arrival on the street food scene is Vietnamese Madame Phu Man Chu (Praxitelous 36, Monastiraki) whereyou can order mustard leaf rolls stuffed with prawns, smoked pork and rice noodles, chicken skewers marinated in lemongrass, tomato soup with mussels and fried tofu with sweet chilli sauce. Dao (Agion Anargiron 43, Psyrri)also serves delicious street food and specializes in Banh Mi French baguette sandwiches with a mouthwatering variety of fillings – from BBQ pork or beef to shredded chicken and fried egg. They also serve Pho and wonton soups, spring rolls (both fried and fresh), stir fried rice and noodles.
JAPANESE
There isn’t really a Japanese street food place in Athens right now but there are many Japanese restaurants, especially in the Syntagma area, where you can pop in and order food to take out.
TIBETAN – Currently Closed Due to Covid But We’re Letting You Know About it Anyway!
Chomolungma (Karytsi 10, Syntagma) is the one and only Tibetan eatery in Athens right now, and although its menu is still quite small, the food there already has a small following. Try the crunchy cheese balls with tomato chutney, momos (dumplings) with their accompanying sauces like curry, pepper chutney, mango chutney and chili mayonnaise, lotus root chips with matcha tea sauce and tangste salad with pickled coleslaw.
PinkFlamingo
Mr Pugs Canteen
CHINESE
Pink Flamingo (Skoufou2-4) is a dinky, two-storey place with a giant neon pink flamingo at its exterior that serves dimssum, dumplings and particularly delicious bao buns. In cooler months you might find a soup of the day too. At Mr. Pug’s Canteen (Katsoulieri 6, Halandri) the menu is simple yet gratifyingly yummy, with a wide selection of bao buns with different fillings, such as crispy cod, duck, beef burger, pork and dragon air (spiced minced beef, chili, kimchi and fried garlic). Oddly, the dessert is Mexican churros. At Street Wok (Panormou 115) you choose the base of your choice (different types of noodles or rice) and then add your choice of vegetables, meats and condiments like bean sprouts, pineapple, herbs, peanuts. The third and final step is selecting your sauce of choice (hot Szechuan, coconut curry, sweet chilli etc). Simple, fast and tasty.
MEXICAN
Grexico (Fokionos 4, Syntagma) serves up freshly made burritos, quesadillas, tacos with dressings and salads. More of a restaurant than street food joint, but with excellent take-out options, is Taqueria Maya (Petraki 10), a self-service place serving a variety of burritos, quesadillas, tacos and salads as well as takeout margaritas.
Taqueria Maya
Taqueria Maya
HAWAIIAN
The only one of its kind so far, Poke (Petraki 7, Syntagma) serves Hawaiian sushi bowls, with a set menu as well as a great array (that changes according to what’s available during each season) of ingredients for a DIY bowl. With rice as the base, you’re free to add any kind of raw or cooked fish, veggies, fruit, herbs and seasonings like sauces, shredded seaweed and spices to create your own Poke concoction.
Russian
For freshly made, fluffy and crisp piroshki pies stuffed with minced meat or potato, visit Gadaychuk Mariya (Acharnon 140). Also popular, and with much more variety of homemade piroshki is Kalina Malinka (Solonos & Mavromihali, Exarcheia and on Stadiou 27, Syntagma). Here you’ll find fried or baked piroshki with fillings such as spring onion and egg, beef mince, feta cheese, chicken and mushroom or sausage and gouda cheese, as well as authentic, handmade Russian salad and crunchy tsebourek. And then there are the desserts, like baked fluffy rolls and sugared cinnamon rolls.
A: Emmanouil Benaki 7-9, Exarcheia
