The MICHELIN Guide Athens 2021 has just been revealed, and two new restaurants in the Greek capital were awarded with one Michelin Star, while others received high distinction in various categories. 

“Hospitality is an intrinsic part of Greek culture and our recommended restaurants in Athens show that it is as warm and sincere as ever. Local ingredients and, even more so, local wines have come to the fore in recent years, and it is great for visitors to feel part of the local community. Athens has restaurants for all occasions and they truly reflect all that is best about this amazing city,” announced Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides.

First new entry to the 2021 MICHELIN Guide with a One Star edition is Pelagos Restaurant, run by Head Chef Luca Piscazzi, who formerly led the team at Two Michelin-starred La Dame de Pic in London. “This stylish, understated restaurant is set within the Astir Palace Hotel, on the Vouliagmeni Peninsula, and boasts stunning sea views. Seafood-based cooking blends refined French techniques with prime Mediterranean ingredients and is characterised by creativity, sophistication and bold yet harmonious flavours,” says the MICHELIN Guide team.  

The other newly awarded One Star restaurant CTC was in fact added to the MICHELIN Guide five years ago and has recently moved to a new location. “Experienced chef-owner Alexandros Tsiotinis leads guests on an 11 course ‘Voyage’ which takes in Greece’s culinary history and blends bold flavours with subtle innovation and originality. His enthusiastic serving team also help to create a charming and truly memorable all-round experience,” they added. 

Retaining their Stars for yet another year are Spondi (Two Michelin Stars) and Botrini’s, Hytra and Varoulko Seaside; all One Michelin Star.

Two restaurants – Nolan and Oikeîo – retain their Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2021. Joining them is Cerdo Negro 1985, a new addition to the guide; this is a small taverna, run by brothers Konstantinos and Yiorgos who have combined their Greek heritage with a passion for Spanish cuisine.

Five Restaurants Added to the Main Section

– Aleria “sits within a carefully restored mid-19 Century former residence and the jewel in its crown is its lovely walled garden. Classic Greek ingredients are showcased in interesting, colourful combinations.” 
– At Le Pavillon, “the chef-owner welcomes every diner personally. Seafood-focused cooking respects classic techniques but flavours are more delicate than the typical bold Mediterranean style.” 
– Okio “has a cool atmosphere and a laid-back vibe. Touches of originality are added to traditional Mediterranean recipes to create vibrant dishes with some bold Asian flavours.” 
– Splendid art deco Athénée “has been lovingly restored by a family team and is once again a place to be seen. It opens all day and serves something for everyone, from Greek classics to sushi and afternoon tea.” 
– Annie Fine Cooking “is a homely, colourfully decorated neighbourhood restaurant which spills out into the tree-lined street. Cooking celebrates the country’s produce, with natural flavours and a distinct balance of sweet and sour shining through.”

The MICHELIN Guides are a series of guide books that have been published by the French tyre company Michelin since 1904. The Guide awards up to three Michelin stars for excellence to a select few establishments.