Ktistakis

Since 1912. Only loukoumades, made with traditional, authentic recipes. The best in the city. Sokratous 59, Omonia (+30) 210 5240891

Ariston

Small and crunchy. The tastiest cheese pie in the city since 1910, it has raised generations of Athenians. Voulis 10, Syntagma (+30) 210 3227626

Arapian

In the heart of the city, a stone's throw from Athens Meat Market. Ask for pastrami and sausage. Evripidou 41, (+30) 2103217238

Ama Lachi

Housed in an old school with a wonderful patio. Trees, flowers, cool breeze, very good Greek cuisine, products from all over the country. Kallidromiou 69 & Methonis 66, Exarchia, (+30) 210 3845978

Kalinka Malinka

Tiny, owned by Russians, for authentic pirozhki with sausage, minced meat, potato, made on the spot. Solonos & Mavromichali, Exarchia, (+30) 210 3388358

48 Urban Garden

Brand-new, in the same space as a well-known gallery, it serves gourmet cuisine in reasonable prices. Great cocktails and decor. Frequented by "in" Athenians. Armatolon & Klefton 48, Ambelokipi, (+30) 2106439466

Numismatic Museum

You walk in the busy Panepistimiou street and through an iron door, you enter a secret, peaceful, beautiful garden. For food, coffee, drinks and live jazz gigs on Thursdays. Panepistimiou 12, City Centre, (+30) 210 3610067

Flower

Modern pizzeria with tables on the square. Always crowded, it's brand new. Right next to bar Kyrios, another hot meeting point, where you can have excellent cocktails. Dorileou 4, Mavili sq., (+30) 210 6400615