Athens isn’t just a city that tells its history — its cuisine is a living language, a bridge between past and present. Between authentic tavernas, creative spots, and restaurants that reinterpret tradition with modern touches, the Greek capital has become an unmissable destination for anyone who loves good food and wants to experience the most sensory side of travel.
During my days in Athens I tasted, experimented, asked, listened. I searched not only for the best dishes, but for places that convey a soul: the ones where fish arrives at dawn from Piraeus, where olive oil is a religion, and where design enhances the experience without stealing the scene.
This is my selection of restaurants you shouldn’t miss in Athens: from rooftops overlooking the Acropolis to creative cuisine and tavernas scented with oregano and sea breeze. If you’re planning a trip, save these names — they’ll make you want to book a table before even booking your flight.
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Atitamos, Arachovis 2, Exarchia, Athens
A lively, authentic spot, always full of locals — which already says a lot. Atitamos is a sincere and welcoming Greek taverna, with fast, friendly service and dishes that are generous, flavorful, and free of unnecessary frills. Here you taste the most genuine side of Greece: fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and that convivial atmosphere that makes every dinner special.
A perfect place for anyone who wants a true Athenian taverna experience, with excellent value for money and a kitchen that wins you over at the first bite.
Not to miss: pita bread, fava with fresh onions and lemon, Atitamos feta, chicken fillets, and lamb chops served with pita and potatoes.
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Symposio Resto Bar, 10 Iakhou Street, Gazi, Athens
A restaurant that perfectly embodies the new Athenian culinary scene: creative, elegant, and deeply connected to its roots. Symposio Resto Bar welcomes you with a warm, contemporary atmosphere — soft lighting, thoughtful details, and a young, attentive, smiling staff. The kind of hospitality that instantly makes you feel you’re in the right place.
The cuisine is a true journey of flavors: traditional recipes reimagined with modern technique, excellent ingredients, and pairings that surprise without ever becoming excessive. Every dish is crafted with balance, color, and personality. Dinner here becomes a memorable moment — perfect for a special evening or for anyone who loves discovering new, refined places while traveling.
Not to miss:
Handmade bread with olive jam; eggplant rolls stuffed with minced meat and feta, served with fresh tomato sauce, parmesan espuma, and crispy potato julienne; grilled feta rolls in a crispy crust with honey and black sesame sauce; squid stuffed with Metsovone cheese and Florina pepper, served on creamy fava in two textures with truffle oil; seared sea bass fillet with a light green mustard sauce and fresh vegetable-and-pineapple tabbouleh; Galaktompoureko (semolina cream) with champagne syrup and white chocolate, served with kaimaki ice cream.
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Strofi, 25 Rovertou Galli, Athens
An iconic restaurant with one of the most captivating terraces in Athens. At Strofi, dinner becomes a truly scenic moment: elegant tables, a direct view of the illuminated Acropolis, and attentive service that enhances the experience without ever being intrusive. The cuisine honors Greek tradition with a refined touch — simple yet well-crafted dishes, intense flavors, and excellent ingredients.
A perfect address for a romantic evening, to celebrate a special moment, or simply to enjoy the pleasure of a dinner with a view that stays with you.
Not to miss: feta wrapped in puff pastry with honey and sesame; oven-baked lamb flavored with thyme, rosemary, garlic, and oregano, served with roasted potatoes.
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Cookoovaya, Chatzigianni Mexi 2A, Athens
Cookoovaya is one of the most refined expressions of contemporary Greek cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant and welcoming, with a modern design and an open kitchen that adds transparency, rhythm, and a sense of authenticity to the entire experience — watching the staff at work is part of the show.
Here, the philosophy of the “value of sharing” reigns: ultra-fresh ingredients, impeccable technique, and a clean aesthetic that lets the flavors speak for themselves. Every dish is crafted with balance and personality — never excessive, always well-focused. The service is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable: a perfect choice for anyone seeking a special, modern, deeply Mediterranean dinner.
Not to miss: aged grouper tartare with olive oil, lemon, mulberry, and dill; classic beef tartare with marinated cucumber and fries; white cabbage salad with carrot, orange, and aged anthotyro cheese; grilled meatballs with eggplant, smoked tomato sauce, and fried Graviera; daily grouper cooked in the traditional way; dry-aged beef ribeye.
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Ergon House, 23 Mitropoleos St., 105 57 Athens
A place that is much more than a restaurant: Ergon House is a unique concept that brings together a gourmet market, bakery, contemporary cuisine, and a curated aesthetic that captivates at first glance. The design is bright and modern, with natural materials and gourmet stalls that create an atmosphere that’s vibrant yet elegant. Perfect for a stylish brunch, a fresh lunch break, or an aperitif surrounded by selected artisanal products.
The service is young, friendly, and attentive, while the quality of the ingredients is impeccable: everything carries the scent of Greek authenticity, but with a modern, cosmopolitan twist.
Not to miss: sourdough bread; Caesar salad with smoked chicken, iceberg lettuce, koulouri croutons, and pecorino; Greek dakos with slices of carob bread, tomato, fresh oregano, goat cheese, and capers.
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The Old Tavern of Psarras, Erechtheos 16 & Erotokritou, Athens
An Athenian institution that blends tradition, a privileged location, and a warm, family-run spirit. Nestled in the historic streets of Plaka, this restaurant — with both a terrace and indoor dining — welcomes guests with warmth and authenticity: the décor is classic, the atmosphere lively yet relaxed, perfect for a true Greek dinner. The cuisine offers traditional dishes, simple but full of flavor, ideal for tasting genuine Greek food after a day of sightseeing. Service is fast and friendly — perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy Athens without compromise.
Not to miss: Greek salad, pumpkin soup, pita bread.
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Taratsa, 60 Mitropoleos Street, Athens
An elegant, slightly hidden rooftop on the top floor: you have to make a point of going up, but as soon as you arrive you immediately realize it’s absolutely worth it — especially for the stunning view of the Acropolis. The design is contemporary, bright, and carefully detailed — the perfect place for a chic, relaxed break in the heart of the city. Taratsaserves brunch until 2:00 PM, with fresh, creative, beautifully presented dishes; after that time, it switches to the à la carte menu, ideal for a light lunch or an aperitif with a view. The service is kind and discreet, and the atmosphere pleasantly calmer than the bustle of the city center.
Not to miss at brunch: poached eggs on artisanal bread with avocado and truffle; lemon pancakes with maple syrup and fresh fruit; fresh smoothie or cold brew with a view.
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Philosopheat Wine Restaurant, 3 Mnisikleous Street, Monastiraki, Athens
An address that wins you over immediately, right in the heart of Plaka. The atmosphere is warm and Mediterranean, with an authentic touch that tells the story of Athens without clichés. The cuisine is surprisingly refined: clean flavors, excellent ingredients, and a special attention to the balance of each dish. The service is kind, attentive, and truly pleasant. A place that blends tradition and contemporary vibes, perfect for a slow lunch or a dinner with a Greek soul.
Not to miss: mussels with wine and grilled calamari.
Img courtesy of Laura Renieri, copertina of Elif Nur | All rights reserved
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