Athens has generated a vibrant dine-out urban culture that proudly exhibits the country’s lavish seasonal produce and rich heritage that has been passed down for generations. Exploring the culinary universe of Athens can be an exciting challenge for foodies. Go local, and find the best family-owned tavernas and all-day cafés – although the many bistros and cocktail bars that seek to reinvent these Greek staples creatively are worth trying as well! In addition, authentic grill houses are everywhere – you can find them scattered across the Athenian neighborhoods, and each has its own unique personality. Athens also has no shortage of luxury options, with numerous Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants and rooftop bars and restaurants that boast stunning views of the skyline and the Acropolis. There’s a reason that food is a focal point of Greek culture.

By Nenela Georgele, Katerina Vnatsiou

The starry universe of culinary Athens

Michelin Stars for consistent excellence, flavors’ finesse and mastery of techniques are awards to selected restaurants and the city of Athens boasts an extensive list of such establishments that offer the Michelin-starred fine dining experience:

Spondi * Signature dishes-tribute to the intricacy of the French cuisine are prepared with top quality seasonal ingredients. The beautiful patio enclosed by the lush Mediterranean greenery and the two dining rooms, one of which resembles a vaulted cellar, create a mesmerizing backdrop for a dining experience most excellent. 5 Pirronos Str., Pagkrati, +302107520658

Delta ** A unique narrative of taste unfolds through the 12 courses menu of bold gastronomic twists, created by the gifted George Papazacharias and the talented Thanos Feskos. Located in the spectacular venues of Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), the restaurant’s haute cuisine is enlivened by 2 Michelin stars and one Green Star, acquired shortly after its first year of operation. 364 Andreas Syggros Av., SNFCC

Soil * Chef’s Tasos Mantis private garden at Alepochori village is the key element of the restaurant’s earthy philosophy. Herbs and vegetables and an array of exceptional Greek produce compose exquisite tastes of creative and sustainable Greek cuisine, reaffirming the “farm to table” concept. 5 Pherekydou Str., Pagkrati, +30210 7513505

The Zillers * With an overwhelming view to the Acropolis the Zillers Roof Garden on the top floor of the Zillers Boutique Hotel stirs feelings of wonder and awe. Chef Pavlos Kyriakis, passionate and inventive, creates divine dishes with the comforting warm flair of the Mediterranean. 54 Mitropoleos Str., Athens, +302103222277

Botrini’s * Minimal aesthetics in a beautiful old house with a cozy yet elegant garden and an excellent menu by renowned chef Ectoras Botrini. 24B Vasileos Georgiou B' Str., Halandri, +302106857323-4

Hytra * One of the most celebrated restaurants of the city and privileged with an astonishing view of Athens from the 6th floor of the Onassis Cultural Center, especially when night falls. Highly talented chef Yiorgos Felemengas creates a culinary experience of signature dishes, prepared to a consistently high standard with the distinct flavors of Greek cuisine most imaginative. 107-109 Syggrou Av., Athens, +302177071118

CTC * Talented chef Alexandros Tsiotinis sings the praises of Greece’s gastronomic history in a way most intriguing and originally unique. 15 Plateon Str., Athens, 2107228812

PELAGOS * A panorama of Luca Piscazzi’s creative mindset on fish-oriented fine dining flawlessly executed with world celebrated French techniques. Four Seasons Astir Hotel, 40 Apollonos Str., Vouliagmeni, 2108901192

Varoulko Seaside * It is impossible to recommend any single dish at chef Lefteris Lazarou’s restaurant. Every ingredient is rich in quality, and every plate has been designed to showcase the incredible freshness and flavor of its seafood components. Upon the rooftop deck of Varoulko Seaside, the sizzling of fish and the clattering of silverware across white tablecloths add a uniquely sensory dimension to this pristine image. 54-56 Koumoundourou Coast, Piraeus, +302105228400

The Big Gourmand Award (in recognition of skillful cooking in reasonable prices) was awarded to Cerdo Negro 1985 (5 Vitonos Str., Gazi, +302103470628), Nolan (31-33 Vouli’s Str., Syntagma +302103243545) and Oikeio (15 Ploutarchou Str., Kolonaki, +302107259216) while in this year’s culinary orbit of distinctions enters Herve’s, with the bold, innovative, colorful, stimulating and progressive cuisine of Herve Pronzato, George Efthimopoulos and Grigoris Kikis, as well as the talk-of-the-town “new-age” taverna of Linou Soumpasis & Co in the heart of Psirri district (2 Melanthiou & Kalamida Str., +302103220300). Merceri, also got its star, with chefs Melina Chomata and Maria Dioudi uplifting the simplest of dishes to rare gastronomic savoir-faire (21 Heraklidon Str., Thissio, +302103417511). Last but not least, VERi TABLΕ of French chef and owner Alain Parodi that pays homage to the finesse of French cuisine and the alluring ambience of a French bistrot (8 Aggelou Sikelianou Str., Neo Psychiko, +302111829109)

Greek Traditional

Extra virgin olive oil, seasonal vegetables, greens and herbs, crispy pies and juicy roasts, fresh fish and seafood are some of the ingredients that have established the Greek cuisine as one of the best in the world. You will find it in tavernas and restaurants throughout the city. The best compliment a Greek traditional chef can hear: “This reminds me of the way my mother used to make this plate when I was little...

Acropolis Restaurant At the foothills of the Acropolis and overlooking the Parthenon is the Acropolis Restaurant, which has been serving tourists and locals alike traditional Greek cuisine since 1980. Both the location and the menu are incredible, with options ranging from seafood to delicious pasta dishes. ACROPOLIS: 2 Epaminonda Str., Athens, +302103215737

Avgo tou Kokora Pinned on the Athenian map of gastronomy for almost two decades it has rightfully claimed the hearts of authentic taste aficionados, many of whom represent the city’s artistically inspired crowd. Let your senses revel in what Greek traditional cuisine really tastes like. From 1:00 at noon till
1:00 after midnight. Metaxourgeio: 25 Myllerou Str., Metaxourgeio, +302177050103

Chrysa Chrysa Run by the beloved chef Chrysa, this restaurant can be found in one of the quietest and most picturesque streets of Petralona. It boasts unforgettable fish and meat dishes, wonderful appetisers and desserts – as well as a wine cellar with revered Greek labels. 40 Aeoleon Str., Petralona, +302130356879

Dexameni One of the most historical “kafeneia” of Athens, open from 10:00 till very late, for coffee, meze, Cretan raki and delicious home-made halva with ice-cream. Evangelismos: Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki, +302107214368

Economou Traditional tavern in a former working class neihbourhoud which is now a hip area crowded by young artists. Excellent house wine and high quality Greek cuisine. Closed Sun.  41 Petralona Troon & Kidantidon Str., +302103467555

Filippou This historic restaurant will serve you “mama’s” food in very good prices. Closed Sat evening and Sun (also 8-23/8). Evangelismos:
19 Xenokratous Str., Kolonaki, +302107216390

O Kalos Lykos  The «big bad wolf» came to life in 2015 in a wonderful street corner of Psyrri, only this time as the «good fellow» with a vibrant, happy and relaxing disposition. Enjoy awesome appetizers before reaching for the most inspiring dishes of fresh pork pan-fry, juicy steaks, crispy cheese croquettes or irresistibly spicy meatballs complemented with ice cold beers, raki or tsipouro. MONASTIRAKI: 2 Orygou, 10 Navarhou Apostoli Str., Psyrri, +306974320286, Fb: okalosolykos1

Klimataria One of the oldest tavernas in Athens, a culinary landmark in the city center and in close distance to the central market place, Klimataria is hosted in a very old little house with an inner yard adorned with vast greenery and flowers and a lovely decoration. You’ll enjoy delicious greek traditional flavours, while the long menu includes all the classic and home-cooked style recipes: a great variety of fresh salads, soups, pies, legumes, lamb fricassee and its “signature” dish, pot-roasted lamb with potatoes. Pretty much a local's restaurant with a wonderful, homey ambiance, some evenings accompanied by the live tunes of Greek bouzouki. Good price list, friendly service. 2 Theatrou Square, +302103216629

Katsourbos Katsourbos is an Athenian favourite for authentic Cretan cuisine. Discover a variety of dishes like lamb and snails in a very central location. 2 Amynta, Scouts Square, Pagrati, +302107222167

Kountouriotiko Kountouriotiko is one of the few grill-houses that is unanimously rated by locals and visitors alike. With high-quality meat and raw materials, their souvlaki is tough to beat – and there are many varieties available as well (including vegan options!). Located in the colourful square of Koukaki, the restaurant also offers delivery and take-away. 3 Kountouriotou Square
& 11 Europa Square, Koukaki, +302109229944

Kyveli Keeping its retro “profile” that blends perfectly with the all so retro neighborhood, Kyvelli is popular among the locals. Happy interior adorned with old photographs and advertising posters of past decades. The menu, a refreshing culinary experience, includes salads, appetizers and delicious “meze”. Monday closed.  15 Eptanisou Str., Kypseli, +302108219406

Nostimies tis Mairys  A welcoming space right in the bustling square of Kypseli, Nostimies tis Mairys is a dependable place to relax and enjoy quality Greek food with good prices. 2-4 Hydras Str., Agios Georgios Square, +30210821313136

To Giavri Located in the picturesque neighbourhood of Petralona next to “Electrikos” train station, To Giavri is one of the most beloved taverns in Athens, with classic dishes made from excellent local ingredients. Open from the morning till late, it has a great selection of coffee brews as well as fine wines, ouzo and tsipouro. 170 Thessalonikis Str., Petralona, +302155004343

To Kaplani Owner Manolis Romanakis and chef Dimitris Skafidas design dishes that reveal centuries of Cretan culinary heritage, using top quality raw materials directly from the island! Try horta tsigariasta (wild greens cooked in olive oil) with fresh tomatoes, onions Owner Manolis Romanakis and chef Dimitris Skafidas design dishes that reveal centuries of Cretan culinary heritage, using top quality raw materials directly from the island! Try horta tsigariasta (wild greens cooked in olive oil) with fresh tomatoes, onions and lemon or the «gamopilafo» (a staple of Cretan cuisine, traditionally served at weddings!). The pie of Sfakia with thyme honey and cinnamon ice cream, at the end, is a must. 47 Efroniou Str., near Caravel Hotel, +302107211161, +302107211191,
www.tokaplani.gr, Fb: tokaplani, Insta: tokaplani

To Scholarchio tis Kypselis Right on the bustling square of Agios Georgios, the “delicious” smells coming from the corner of Eptanissou street whet your appetite. The menu reveals the versatile temperament of traditional Greek food with an intriguing variety of seafood, meat and stews, plus beers and local spirits.18 Eptanissou Str., Kypseli, +302108815820, FB: To Scholarchio tis Kypselis, Insta: to_scholarchio_tis_kypselis

Vlassis Plain, simple space with an “intellectual” touch, but its passion for original Greek food remains intact. Splendid cooked dishes, even better grilled & fried seafood. Closed Sun
(also 8-23/8). Megaro MOUSIKIS: 15 Meandrou Str., Ilissia, +302107256335

Greek Creative

Greeks love their traditional homemade cuisine and renowned Greek chefs love to experiment with its recipes. What they come up with is some of the country’s most representative dishes served up “with a twist”. The finest restaurants of the Greek creative cuisine are...

Akra When famed chefs Yiannis Loukakis and Spyros Pediaditaki joined forces to open Akra, they created quite a stir through the city. With a panorama of new-age Green cuisine, the restaurant promises dishes that reflect the limitless imagination of its founders. Some tables are set on the sidewalk, which is the perfect spot to people-watch in the hip neighbourhood of Pagrati. 12 Aminta Str., Plateia Proskopon, Pagkrati, +302107251116

Aleria Α yard that resembles the french countryside. Two level building, elegant decoration, one of the best menus in Greek creative cuisine, chef Gikas Xenakis. You can also relax and have a drink. Closed Sun. Metaxourgio: 57 Meg. Alexandrou Str., +302105222633

Ama Lachei  Once a schoolyard, Ama Lachei has become an unexpected oasis amidst the hum of the Exarchia neighbourhood, complete with a lush garden. Cool and nostalgic, the menu features quality Green dishes and mezze platters that pair with the laid-back philosophy of the place. It also has a good selection of wine, beers and spirits. 69 Kallidromiou Str., Exarchia, +302103845978

Cherchez La femme This refined old-Athens coffee spot promises authenticity through a menu of delicious dishes that pair perfectly with ouzo. The marble tables situated under the shade of mulberry trees boast a great view of the most vibrant plateia of the city. SYNTAGMA: 43 Mitropoleos Str., +302103222020

Chrysa Chrysa Run by the beloved chef Chrysa, this restaurant can be found in one of the quietest and most picturesque streets of Petralona. It boasts unforgettable fish and meat dishes, wonderful appetisers and desserts – as well as a wine cellar with revered Greek labels.  40 Aeoleon Str., Petralona, +302130356879

Cookoovaya Five excellent chefs (N. Karathanos, P. Koskinas, V. Liakos, S. Liakos, K. Zournatzis) have taken over the cuisine of this restaurant, making the whole city curious to try their dishes. Closed 10-17/8. Megaro MOUSIKIS: 2a Xatzigianni Mexi Str., Ilissia, +302107235005

Fita Though it made its debut a few months ago in an off Broadway neighborhood of central Athens, it is already a culinary hangout with a devoted young crowd. The menu features alternative flavors that reflect the unwavering philosophy of its chefs-owners towards an inspiring experimentation with regional fresh products and ingredients. Chill out atmosphere, beautiful faces, among which some of the city’s most celebrated personalities. Good prices.  1 Dourm & 6-8 Kassamouli Str., Neos Kosmos, +302114148624

Tzitzikas kai Mermigas Quality raw materials form the basis of the gastronomic experience Tzitzikas kai Mermigas has to offer. With rich salads, excellent cheeses and a long list of Greek wines and spirits, this is a favourite spot for good reason. Syntagma:12-14 Mitropoleos Str., +302103247607

To Mavro Provato (Black Sheep) One the city’s most loved restaurants, it fills quickly daily with Athenian crowds, actresses, screenwriters, artists and celebrities. Very good modern Greek cuisine, emphasis is placed on quality ingredients, traditional dishes with a modern touch, a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Tables inside and outside on the pavement, make sure to book. Daily from noon, Sunday serving only midday. Evangelismos: 33 Arrianou Str., Pagrati, +302107223466

Tsiftis Award-winning chef Sifi Manouselis and his team created this gastro-taverna with a singular philosophy in mind: to create Greek dishes with a twist. Based on seasonality and localness, the restaurant provides innovative choices that are accompanied by a rich selection of natural wines and excellent Greek spirits. The place is also known for its peaceful atmosphere,
with outdoor seating facing a quiet pedestrian street.  Michalakopoulou & Sevastias Str., Athens, +302107754246

Vasilainas This historic 100-year-old restaurant has catered for an all-star list of visitors who have passed through Greece – from Sofia Loren to Winston Churchill. Now in a new location, behind the emblematic Hilton, in a property that has been magnificently designed by the famous architects A. Kourkoulas - M. Kokkinou. Cuisine Greek, creative and unforgettable gastronomic experience, degustation menu and a la carte, wine cellar with the best of Greek and international vineyards. Reduced rates at noon. Evangelismos: 3 Vrassida Str., (behind the Hilton Hotel), +302107210501

Mediterranean

It The “it” place to have a lunch break, the absolute meeting point for the locals. Combines the vibe of a modern restaurant with the casualness of a take away. Healthy and fresh food, natural juices, salads, soups, an alternative option for fast food. Open all day. Panepistimio: 29 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103631827, +302103635773

Lyra The restaurant is set in a beautiful neo-classical building in the «neighborhood of gods», surrounded by the unique appeal of the city’s past. In an elegant cascading table arrangement in the picturesque alley expect a display of contemporary Greek cuisine dishes based on premium quality ingredients. Live music and intriguing cocktail options lift the experience even higher. 12 Lysiou Str., Plaka, +302103229727

Mystilli With fresh seasonal produce and creative cooking techniques, Mystilli is a popular fine dining restaurant situated in the historic centre of Athens. This is a wonderful option for those wanting to try high-quality modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Monastiraki: 7 Adrianou Str., Monastiraki, +302103251361

Vezene One of the best restaurants in the city, located behind Hilton Hotel. It is always packed with afficionados of nouvelle cuisine. Enjoy the delicacies from Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Closed Sun. Evangelismos: 11 Vrassida Str., Hilton, +302107232002

Athens from Above

Buena Vista A wonderful all-day restaurant-bar, Buena Vista is the perfect brunch spot for authentic Latin American cuisine. As the hours pass, the atmosphere grows even more lively with customers sipping homemade rum and tequila cocktails as they listen to Afro House, Salsa, and more. Monastiraki: 7 Agios Philippou Str., Monastiraki, +302103210017

GB Roof Garden Deluxe art deco interior and impeccable service. An excellent choice after shopping in what can only be branded as Athens’ most chic and historical brasserie. You’ll be sitting next to powerful businessmen, and journalists in search of their next story. Delectable mediterranean cuisine, amazing view. Syntagma: Grande Bretagne Hotel, Syntagma Square, +302103330000

La Suite Lounge Eating by the Vertigo Pool is cool! Luxurious decoration, original Greek tastes. Nice view to the city and pleasant soundscape. BBQ on Mondays. Evangelismos: Hotel St. George Lycabettus, 2 Kleomenous Str., Dexameni, +302107416000

Locali What its name suggests is that you become a local when hanging out in places you feel at home. Here you are, relaxed in its beautiful patio of cultural contrasts, the imposing figures of the Caryatids on the wall, feasting your senses with imaginative flavors and signature cocktails, featuring a mix of Greek spirits. Open in the morning. Thisseio, 44 Sarri Str., Psyrri, +302103250673

Mappemonde Restaurant bar & Lounge High above the city on the 10th floor of the Athens Capital Hotel, the chic Mappemonde combines culinary excellence and spectacular views of the city. The creative Mediterranean recipes and a wide array of wine labels and premium cocktails add to the cosmopolitan atmosphere. 4 Panepistimiou & 2 Kriezotou Str., Syntagma, +302144442000

Mira Me From the rooftop of the elegant Mira Me boutique hotel, the magic of Athens unveils, an occasion that merits the accompaniment of exquisite food, great wine and masterfully prepared cocktails. Both in the kitchen and in the bar of Mira Me everything starts with an unswerving devotion to quality that pays homage to the French and Scandinavian cuisine with elaborated twists from the Greek seasonal produce. Monastiraki: 118 Ermou Str., +302152151930

Nyx Japanese fusion with a 360o view of the city’s miraculous history and urban culture. Located on the top floor of the Academias Hotel Athens, Nyx features top notch Japanese influenced flavors, masterfully combined with signature cocktails. Panepistimio: Academias Hotel, 38 Academias & Omirou Str., Athens, +302103670000

Roi​ On a beautiful square of scenic Plaka neighborhood, right where urban life and history converge, Roi’s ample sidewalk seating spreads its vibes to a cool crowd flocking in awed by the fascinating remnants of the city’s glorious past. Enjoy exceptional coffee and brunch in the morning or some delightful dishes from a menu that centers around modern Greek cooking with farm to table concept. Roi prides itself for its rooftop as well. Feel the refreshing cold night breeze while you dine under the stars, an experience complemented with great signature cocktails. ​1 Filomoussou Eterias Square, Plaka, +302103240263

The Zillers This year everybody is talking about The Zillers’ terrace. Lovely setting, outstanding view of the Acropolis, green scenery decoration. Open all day for coffee or drinks, snacks, special dishes and cocktails. Syntagma: 54 Mitropoleos Str., +302103222277

Fish

Balkoni stis Kyklades Balkoni stis Kyklades has a bountiful daily supply of fresh fish and seafood delicacies from the Cyclades islands. The skyline and seascape views are magical accompaniments to unforgettable dishes of culinary history and tradition. 13 P. Melas Str., Vyronas, +302107640240

Dourabeis An all-time classic and rightly famous.Fish cuisine of the highest standards. 29 Akti Dilaveri, Piraeus, +302104122092

Istioploikos A landmark of Mikrolimano overlooking the Saronic Gulf. In the evening it feels like you are at a beach bar. Modern, Mediterranean cuisine. The café looks like a boat deck.
Akti Mikrolimano, Piraeus, +302104134084, +306944915220

Jimmy and the Fish It stands out among the tourist tavernas of Mikrolimano. Meeting point for a fish lunch by the yachts and fishing boats.  46 Akti Koumoundourou Str., Mikrolimano, +302104124417

Thalassinos Athenians who love fish frequent this cozy place, which serves big or smaller fish in both creative and traditional way s in its lovely yard. Moschato: 2 Irakleos & Lisikratous Str., +302109404518

American Way

T.G.I. Friday’s Give some “flavour” to your evenings with appetizers and cocktails at happy hour prices. At TGI Friday’s you will find a variety of refreshing signature cocktails and straight drinks mixed by the greatest bartenders in the world. Kifissia 35 Kolokotroni Str., +302106233947-8 Kolonaki Syntagma: 2 Neofytou Vamva Str., +302107227721 Ambelokipi Ambelokipi: Kifissias & Alexandras, +302106475417-8  Glyfada: 43 Lazaraki Str., +302108982608 Palio Faliro Marina Flisvou, Pier One, +302109853281 Agios Dimitrios Agios Dimitrios:The Athens Metro Mall:
276 Vouliagmenis Av., +302109717223 Asteras Vouliagmenis 40 Apollonos Str., +302108901625

Bar Restaurants

Balthazar One of the most beautiful buildings in Athens, it attracts politicians, businessmen, artists, who enjoy their early meals & drinks. Mediterranean cuisine by top chef Christoforos Peskias and a beautiful garden.  Ambelokipi: 27 Tsoxa & Vournazou Str.,+3022106441215

Eden’s Garden​ Located in one of the most vivid neighborhoods of Athens, this club-restaurant is the hidden paradise of the city. You will enter an amazing garden, where you can taste fusion cuisine, drink an exceptional cocktail or even try hookah!  KERAMEIKOS: 48 Triptolemou Str., Gazi, +306942252950

Efimerida ATH The ambience, the interior, the music and the out-of-the ordinary flavors switch your mornings up a lot. In the morning for a lovely coffee and a selection of “voluptuous” breakfast and brunch dishes and later in the day for a lunch break, dinner, some drinks and cocktails listening to great music that gets louder as the night falls. Panepistimio: 6 Sina & Vissarionos Str., Panepistimio, +302103648077

MoMix Bar – Molecular Mixology This innovative Kerameikos hangout is something of a star in the Greek culinary world, bagging numerous awards both in Greece and abroad. Momix offers ‘molecular mixology’ drinks – a refreshing alternative to the traditional cocktail. Use trying their creative ‘bubbles’ as an excuse to go out with friends and indulge! The beautiful industrial space is also a great place for gourmet finger food. KERAMEIKOS: 1 Keleou Str., +306974350179

The Line Athens One of the newest additions to the city’s culinary scene gives you a homely feeling that «tastes» superb. You’ll try fruit wine from an elegant array of labels, traditionally made home bread, comfort food, small brewery beers and masterfully blended cocktail drinks. The Industrial design with the long bar, an indoors patio and a zero waste philosophy, stimulate the palette even further.  37 Agathodemonos Str., Kato Petralona, +302103421311

All Day

Amber Atmospheric and cosmopolitan, Amber can be found on one of the liveliest streets of the centre. Find a range of choices from modern Greek cuisine to sushi. Amber is also open from early in the morning until late at night, and has an array of signature cocktails. Syntagma: 38-40 Kolokotronis & Leocharous Str., +302103227757

Athénée Once a historic café, Athénée was transformed into a fine dining bar-resto. Complete with bougainvillaea trees and vintage furniture, this is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or meal, and it boasts a wide selection of Greek and international options on the menu. In the afternoons, Athénée becomes an even more popular haunt for a range of characters, including celebrities in the fashion world, artists, and theatregoers, all of whom gather to enjoy their evening treats and watch the sun set. Syntagma: 9 Voukourestiou & Panepistimiou Str., Athens, +302103251430

Athineon Politeia Indulge in a rich breakfast or the exquisite flavors of authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by a selective variety of wines and signature cocktails. Your self-discipline over a delicious array of homemade desserts definitely poses an extra challenge.  Monastiraki: 1 Akamantos & 33 Apostolou Pavlou Str., Thissio, +302103413795, Fb: athinaionpoliteia, Insta: athinaion_politeia

Beauty Killed the Beast Savour the feeling of old-Athens elegance in this beautiful heritage home with vintage decor and a lush jungle-like garden. Enjoy your coffee and breakfast treats before reaching for an exciting selection of international cuisine, with many vegan options. KERAMEIKOS:14 Paramithias Str., +302105240117

Geco Situated in the elegant Gatsby boutique hotel in the narrow streets of downtown Athens, Geco is the perfect all-day fine dining option for quality food and drink. Soak in the aromas of coffee in the morning and feast on a delicious brunch – or, as the day pushes forward, stick around for a live event. The restaurant boasts a reimagined and elevated blend of Greek and international flavours, designed by Funky Gourmet (two Michelin stars). Syntagma:18 Lekka Str., +302103216001

F Bar Just a stone’s throw away from the Acropolis, F Bar spreads its scenic vibes to a cool crowd of all ages flocking in awed by the fascinating volume of the majestic monument. Superb coffee blends, refreshing beverages, great cocktail drinks, premium spirits and a selective variety of wine labels. Monastiraki: 29 Heraklidon Str., Thissio, +302130116173, Fb: rockbarathens, Insta: Φ BAR

Iguazu ​A panorama of latin-american flavors devised by the charismatic chef Yiannis Parrikos. Soak in the aromas of coffee in the morning complemented with exquisite brunch dishes and as the day pushes forward, sensations and tastes mingle in a menu most inspiring. MEGARO MOUSIKIS: 16 Laodikias & 1 Nimfeou Str., Athens +302107775225, iguazu.gr, Fb: iguazu.athens,
Insta: iguazu.athens

Nice N Easy Displaying an elegant chic atmosphere, it has become the hottest meeting point for those strolling around the lively central streets of Kolonaki. The menu features an abundant selection of organic flavors, yummy simple delights, as well as original day dishes of legumes, pasta or meat, burgers and must-try bagels with salmon. Panepistimio: 60 Omirou & Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103617201

Shakespeare in Love The history of this 1897 stone building at Piraeus got swept away by love with the art of fine Mediterranean cuisine making. Enjoy exceptional coffee, freshly made juices and brunch in the morning and indulge in the Mediterranean breeze with ravioli with rooster and xinomyzithra cheese or grilled salmon with seasonal veggies in the evening. Over 25 labels of excellent wine and uniquely made cocktail. 3 Agiou Spyridonos Str., Piraeus, +302104131999, S.i.L Shakespeare in Love, Insta: S.i.L Shakespeare in Love

Theta Located on Instagram-famous Adrianou Street, Theta is a beautiful all-day cocktail bar that offers good coffee and even better Greek and continental food. The bar also has an impressive selection of spirits, Greek wines and signature cocktails. 11 Adrianou Str., Monastiraki, +302103318693

French Cuisine

L’ Abreuvoir All time classic French cuisine, elegant and stylish. Enjoy the food in its beautiful garden – along side politicians and VIPs. Evangelismos: 51 Xenokratous Str., Kolonaki, +302107229106

Veri Table An aura of elegance surrounds this authentic bistronomie that honors the philosophy of the exquisite French gastronomic tradition. Chef-patron Alain Parodi and his wife Christine will spoil you with lip smacking dishes, French cheeses and cold cuts paired with excellent French wines - on the upper floor rests a collection of 2000 fine wine labels from France mostly, but also from Greece, Italy and Roumania. You’ll find it open on Saturday noons. Closed on Sundays. 8 A. Sikelianou Str., Neo Psychiko, +302111829109

Italian

Aglio Oglio e peperoncino Veiled under the imposing volume of the sacred Acropolis rock this beautiful place of minimal chic aesthetics fuses its menu with pure Italian quintessence. Choose among an intriguing variety of Italian antipasti, colorful salads and fresh handmade pasta prepared masterfully in its kitchen and topped with traditional Italian sauces; not to mention the delightful desserts. Closed on Mondays, only at noon on Sundays. Acropolis: 13 Porinou Str., +302109211801

Cicchetto Cantina In the narrow streets of Syntagma you can easily find your way to delight your palate at this very cute and small “cantina” that offers a refined touch of “finger food” modernity. Bruschetta, pizzas, exquisite cold cuts and cheeses and a great variety of other Italian delicacies to enjoy with a glass of wine or a cocktail. Cheerful, relaxed and friendly ambience, the ideal “pit stop” when exploring the city. Syntagma: 7 Voulis Street , +302160046029

Cupola Tastes from Italy with the best Italian chef Stefano Rossi, you will be amazed by his delicious carbonara. Also try authentic Italian pizza! On the list you will find a wide variety of Greek and Italian wines. Taste delicious cocktails from the most famous bartenders in the city. Next to Panathenaic Stadium, tables outside. Open from Tue to Sat 19.00-00.30. On Sun from 13.00-19.00. 13 Ephorionos Str., Pagrati, +302114117444

Frankie Borrowing the name from Frank Sinatra, Frankie stands out on one of the busiest streets of central Athens. Its menu brings the Italian finesse on a plate, with authentic Italian dishes created with regional products that emphasize its farm to table philosophy. Beautiful interior with vintage aesthetics and an open kitchen. Open daily from the morning hours for coffee, brunch or Italian snacks. Also an excellent list of Greek and Italian wine. Panepistimio: 42 Skoufa Str., Kolonaki, +302103647052

Pasteria (La)  Twelve restaurants all over the city.With a rich wine list and a tempting menu from all over Italy.Maroussi The Mall Athens: +302106198230  Kolonaki +30210 3632032
Glyfada +302108945085 Kifissia +302108085607  Nea Smyrni +302109319146 Paleo Faliro +302109858880 Ambelokipi +302106401480 Agia Paraskevi +302106019975  Chalandri +302106854210  Kato Patissia +302102236295

School Pizza Bar For great coffee, thin, crispy pizza, and classic cocktails, School Pizza Bar will take you back to a simpler time. The Italian restaurant is decked out with tapestries, paintings, and maps, which give it a welcoming feel right in the city centre. Monastiraki: 8 Agia Irini Square, +302103251444

Sole Jaguaro Inspired by his culinary wanderings around the world, chef Giovanni Scaraggi opened Sole Jaguaro, an Italian restaurant that serves new takes on classic dishes that are as unexpected as they are unforgettably delicious. Their selection of Greek and Italian wines is tough to beat as well. 66 Troon Str., Petralona, +302103478008

Street Food

Everest There’s one on every corner. A dazzling array of ingredients to choose from and make your own dream sandwich. The same applies for pies, salads, pastry, coffees, beverages. Those in the city’s centre are usually open 24 hours.

Feyrouz Mama’s food: delicious soups and excellent homemade lahmacun. Monastiraki: 23 Karori & Eolou Str., Monastiraki, +302130318060

Junky the Foodtruck The favourite vromiko (street food) hangout of the city, Junky the Foodtruck can be found in Syntagma, in the bustling Kolokotronis street. Food is served straight out of an eye-catching Mini Cooper canteen-car – you can’t miss it! Syntagma: 15 Kolokotroni Str., +306946926954, +302130474067

Hoocut Our national street food, the “souvlaki”, redesigned by highly talented, Michelin starred Greek chefs (owners of some of the most popular high-end cuisines in Athens). Simply delicious, definitely traditional, altogether an epicurean delight. Monastiraki: 9 Plateia Agias Eirinis, Central Athens, +302103240026

Mailo’s The Pasta Project A rare blend of fresh pasta with the street food culture created right in front of you. Mailo’s open kitchen cooks daily three different kinds of pasta using only organic semolina and water. Choose your kind and move on with adding one of the ten different handmade, signature sauces -the “Truffle Mushrooms” with wild mushrooms and truffle oil is divine.
3 Falirou St., Koukaki, +302109234414 mailos.gr, Fb: Mailo’s – The Pasta Project, Insta: mailos_pasta

Microu Lee Generous portions and very reasonable prices for Chinese food (the most expensive dish costs €4,90), the best comfort noodles in the world! Note this summer highlights: noodles with chicken and curry, won ton shrimps, fried rice with shrimps, beef soup, sweet potato salad and finally cheesecake with tofu. Omonia, 14 Stournari Str., Exarchia, +302103800672

Thess Bao Fine dining inside a (bao) bun. Handmade fluffy buns filled with creative stuffing such as the marinated pork in honey and beer roasted for four hours in the oven before being pulled apart and crammed into the bun along with tomato, crispy onions and a cream of greek yogurt and celery. The menu continues with strikingly unexpected combinations.  Athens 30-32 Perikleous Str., Syntagma, +302103214717 Thessaloniki 3 Kalapothaki, +302310235225, 11 Lori Margariti, +302310235226, thessbao.gr,
Fb: Thessbao, Insta: @thessbao