A visit to Athens isn’t complete without a culinary journey through the aromas and flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. From the famous moussaka and beloved tzatziki to juicy grilled lamb chops and fragrant desserts, the city offers countless options to enjoy authentic Greek food. We’ve gathered for you the most iconic dishes and the best places to try them!
🍽️ TRADITIONAL DISHES
MOUSSAKA – The ultimate Greek oven-baked dish, with layers of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and creamy béchamel.
📍 Taverna Dionysos (beneath the Acropolis) – Traditional taverna with a stunning view of the Parthenon.
📍 Ipirotissa Canteen (Varvakios Market) – Homemade moussaka just like grandma’s.
📍 Kuzina – A modern twist on moussaka in an award-winning restaurant.
TZATZIKI – The famous Greek dip made with yogurt, garlic, and cucumber – a perfect match for grilled meat and fried delicacies.
📍 Kostas (Syntagma) – Known for its legendary souvlaki, always with a touch of tzatziki.
📍 Thanasis (Monastiraki) – A timeless favorite for grilled souvlaki and rich tzatziki.
📍 Oroscopo (Hilton area) – Classic Greek flavors with a modern flair.
GRILLED LAMB CHOPS (PAIDAKIA) – Charcoal-grilled lamb or goat chops with oregano and lemon.
📍 Klimataria (Psyrri) – A local favorite with live music and a hearty vibe.
📍 Karamanlidika tou Fani – Combines traditional cured meats with top-quality meat dishes.
📍 Vezene – A gourmet hotspot for serious meat lovers.
GREEK SALAD (HORIATIKI) – A refreshing mix of tomato, cucumber, feta, peppers, olives, oregano, and olive oil.
📍 Taverna Saita (Plaka) – Classic taverna with authentic salads.
📍 To Kafeneio (Kolonaki) – Traditional café with refined dishes.
📍 Found in nearly every taverna across Athens – and always delicious.
GEMISTA – Oven-baked tomatoes and bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs.
📍 To Kritikó (Hilton area) – Authentic Cretan flavors in a cozy setting.
📍 O Tzimis (Acropolis) – Home-style Greek dishes in a warm environment.
📍 Oineas (Psyrri) – Popular eatery with fresh, daily-made specialties.
🍰 TRADITIONAL DESSERTS
BAKLAVA – Crispy phyllo layers filled with walnuts, spices, and syrup.
📍 Konstantinidis Patisserie – A classic name for traditional sweets.
📍 Serbetia stou Psyrri – A beloved spot for baklava and syrupy treats.
📍 Ariston – Historic pastry shop with timeless flavors.
GALAKTOBOUREKO – Syrupy dessert with semolina custard and golden phyllo.
📍 Pavlou Bakery – Renowned for its galaktoboureko.
📍 Varsos (Kifisia) – One of the city’s most iconic patisseries.
📍 Stani – Classic desserts and thick yogurt with honey.
LOUKOUMADES – Bite-sized fried dough balls topped with honey and cinnamon.
📍 Krinos – One of the oldest loukoumades shops in the city center.
📍 Lukumades (Aiolou) – A trendy take on the traditional sweet with endless toppings.
📍 Loukoumades by Theodoros – Excellent quality and authentic flavor.
☕ TRADITIONAL COFFEES
GREEK COFFEE – Slowly brewed in a briki with a thick foam on top.
📍 Kafeneio Iliostasio – Old-school café in scenic Plaka.
📍 Mokka (Varvakios Market) – Coffee ground and brewed in copper pots.
📍 Dexameni Café (Kolonaki) – Sip your Greek coffee with a view.
FRAPPÉ – The iconic Greek iced instant coffee.
📍 Ble Papagalos – Bohemian atmosphere and a strong frappé.
📍 Coffee Dive (Hilton area) – A relaxed café with classic iced drinks.
📍 Typografos – All-day spot serving up refreshing frappés.
FREDDO ESPRESSO & CAPPUCCINO – The modern Greek version of espresso, served cold.
📍 Tailor Made – A pioneer in Athens’ specialty coffee scene.
📍 Just Made 33 – Gourmet coffee with homemade pastries.
📍 Kaya – Stylish espresso bar with a passion for quality.
At Happy Host, we believe food is a cultural journey. During your stay in one of our apartments, don’t hesitate to ask us for more tips – we know all the city’s hidden culinary gems!
Kali orexi – Bon appétit! 🍽️
