Athens is the capital of Greece, a treasure trove not only in ancient history and culture but also in its vibrant culinary scene. The city offers a plenitude of flavours in its food scene, very representative of its storied past and Mediterranean heritage.
There is no better way to get in touch with Athens than to discover its various and exquisite tastes. From savoury street food snacks to the most indulgent desserts, Athens has something for everyone’s taste.
This guide introduces you to the 5 must-try dishes in Athens and the best places to enjoy them. Live even more gastronomical experiences by staying at AIRIO Suites Athens, where excellence, luxury, and convenience come together in the heart of the city.
Without any doubt, it is probably the most famous Greek street dish, popular not only with locals but with tourists as well.
Its origin, of course, dates back to Ancient Greece, where skewered meat was a daily dish. Throughout the centuries, it has developed into one of the staple dishes in Greek cuisine, symbolizing the simplicity and flavour of traditional Greek food.
Favourite and beloved street food in Greece, Souvlaki consists of skewers of grilled meat and is normally filled with pork or chicken. Mainly, it is served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. This bite-sized, quick, juicy, and flavorful meal can be consumed on the go.
Kostas (Exarcheia): This small popular joint in Exarcheia is celebrated for its amazing souvlaki wraps. Despite its unassuming appearance, the place is synonymous with top-quality meat and excellent seasoning.
Kalopsimeno (Kolonaki): This would now be found in Kolonaki, and in such a molten part of the chic city, the modern take on the traditional souvlaki—Kalopsimeno—is served with gourmet ingredients and creatively presented.
Souvlaki is quintessential Greek street food that offers a quick and delicious way to experience local flavours. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins or shopping in the vibrant markets, a souvlaki wrap is the perfect snack to keep you going.
Spanakopita, or spinach pie, is a beloved Greek pastry enjoyed for centuries. It is a staple in Greek households and is often a snack or part of a meze (appetizer) spread.
Its flaky, golden layers and savoury filling make it a favourite among locals and visitors.
Spanakopita is a savoury pie made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry, filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs.
It’s a staple of Greek cuisine that showcases the freshness and simplicity of Mediterranean ingredients.
To Triantafyllo tis Nostimias (Exarcheia): Known for its excellent pies and pastries, this bakery offers some of the best spanakopita in Athens, with a perfect balance of spinach and feta wrapped in buttery phyllo.
Ariston (Kolonaki): Ariston in Kolonaki is renowned for its variety of delicious pies, including a standout spanakopita that locals swear by.
Spanakopita is delicious and a great representation of Greek home cooking. The combination of spinach and feta wrapped in crispy phyllo makes for a delightful treat any time of the day.
Gemista is a beloved dish in Greek cuisine, consisting of vegetables such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini stuffed with a savoury mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat.
Its origins trace back to ancient Greece and the broader Mediterranean region, where the practice of stuffing vegetables was common due to the abundance of fresh produce.
This method of preparation was a practical way to utilize seasonal vegetables and stretch ingredients to feed larger families.
Gemista, which means “filled” in Greek, remains a staple of Greek home cooking, celebrated for its simplicity, versatility, and the comforting flavours of fresh herbs and ripe vegetables.
Gemista, which means “stuffed” in Greek, are tomatoes and bell peppers filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and occasionally minced meat, baked until tender and flavorful.
This dish is a staple in Greek households and embodies the essence of Greek comfort food.
Where to Try:
Atitamos (Exarcheia): This cosy taverna in Exarcheia offers a delicious homemade version of gemista. The stuffed vegetables are bursting with flavour and cooked to perfection.
Farma Mpralou (Kolonaki): A modern taverna in Kolonaki that serves traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, including a mouth-watering gemista.
Gemista highlights the simplicity and flavour of Greek cuisine.
The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is both healthy and satisfying.
Pastitsio, often referred to as Greek lasagna, is a quintessential comfort food in Greek cuisine.
This hearty and flavorful dish has its roots in the broader Mediterranean culinary tradition, with influences from Italian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
The word “pastitsio” is derived from the Italian word “pasticcio,” which means a mess or a pie made of various ingredients.
Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish that features layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel, similar to lasagna but with a distinctly Greek twist.
It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a hearty meal.
Rozalia (Exarcheia): A traditional taverna in Exarcheia known for its hearty Greek dishes, Rozalia serves a delicious pastitsio that feels like it’s been made by a loving Greek grandmother.
Kiouzin (Kolonaki): This chic restaurant in Kolonaki offers a gourmet twist on traditional Greek dishes, including a refined and flavorful pastitsio.
Pastitsio is the ultimate comfort food that blends Italian and Greek culinary influences.
It’s rich flavours and creamy texture make it a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Loukoumades, often referred to as Greek doughnuts, are small, deep-fried balls of dough drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts.
Their history dates back to ancient Greece, where they were known as “honey tokens” and were awarded to victorious athletes in the first Olympic Games.
These sweet treats have deep roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, with various variations across the region.
Over centuries, loukoumades have remained a popular dessert in Greece, symbolising celebration and indulgence, and are often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.
Loukoumades are small, deep-fried doughnuts drizzled with honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and walnuts.
These sweet treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delightful end to any meal.
Kokkion (Exarcheia): This trendy spot in Exarcheia offers a modern take on the classic dessert, with various toppings and fillings that make for a unique and delicious experience.
Loukoumi Bar (Kolonaki): Located in the heart of Kolonaki, this dessert haven is famous for its loukoumades, serving them with innovative toppings and sauces.
Loukoumades are a delightful Greek dessert that combines crispy, sweet, and nutty flavours in every bite.
They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and experiencing a beloved Greek tradition.
Athens stimulates your taste buds with culinary excellence. More strongly, the savory flavor in souvlaki and spanakopita, comforting softness in gemista and pastitsio, and above all, sweet indulgence in loukoumades—this city has something to please every soul.
These must-try dishes are not just exploring culinary charms but also the characteristics of Greek culture and tradition, so, no way missing them out is fine.
Best Times to Eat:
Found in Greek conventional eating times, lunch is around 2 PM, and dinner about 9 PM. It is smarter to eat a little earlier or later, to avoid a heavy crowd.
Eating Like a Local:
Lighten up and think leisurely when you dine in Greece. Meals are to be long and enjoyed at an easygoing pace while keeping great company.
Additional Recommendations:
Ensure to try other Greek specialities such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), tzatziki (yoghurt and cucumber dip), and feta cheese.