Athens is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life, and nowhere is this more evident than in its food scene. But with so many options, finding the best taverns in Athens can be a challenge. You want to experience authentic Greek taverns serving traditional dishes in cozy, welcoming atmospheres. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top spots for traditional Greek dining, highlighting the best family-owned establishments, historic taverns, and where to enjoy Greek food with live music. Let’s explore Athens’ culinary gems!

What are the best traditional taverns in Athens?

The best traditional taverns in Athens include Geros tou Moria in Plaka, offering live music and stunning Acropolis views, and Klimataria in Psiri, known for its cozy garden and hearty home-cooked meals. For a hidden gem, Diporto, located under Varvakeios Market, provides a no-frills, authentic Greek dining experience. These taverns are beloved for their traditional dishes, charming atmospheres, and local character.

12 Best Traditional Taverns in Athens

1. Plaka: Geros tou Moria Tavern

Located in the heart of the picturesque Plaka neighborhood, just beneath the Acropolis, Geros tou Moria Tavern offers a truly authentic Greek dining experience. With its outdoor seating, live music, and a menu packed with traditional favorites, this taverna transports you back in time.

• Ambiance: Enjoy a meal under the stars with live traditional music.
• Must-Try Dishes: Slow-cooked lamb with potatoes, pastitsio, and moussaka.
• Why Visit: Perfect for those seeking a blend of Greek food Athens and historic charm in one of the city’s most famous neighborhoods.

2. Psiri: Klimataria

Nestled near the bustling Varvakeios Market, Klimataria is one of the best taverns in Athens, known for its rustic atmosphere and long-standing history. A favorite in the vibrant Psiri taverns district, this spot is known for its hearty, home-cooked meals.

• Ambiance: A beautiful garden adorned with grapevines, reminiscent of old Athenian charm.
• Must-Try Dishes: Baked giant beans (gigantes), lamb stifado, and snail stew.
• Why Visit: This is a cozy taverna perfect for those looking for a traditional Greek food with live music experience.

3. Chalandri: Kitsoulas Tavern

Located in the suburban neighborhood of Chalandri, Kitsoulas Tavern has been a local favorite since 1946, offering a rich selection of traditional Greek dishes.

• Ambiance: A warm, family-friendly environment outside the city center.
• Must-Try Dishes: Braised beef, stuffed zucchini with rice and meat, and pastitsio.
• Why Visit: Ideal for those wanting to explore beyond central Athens and enjoy a family-owned taverna that has stood the test of time.

4. Pangrati: Karavitis

One of the historic taverns in Athens, Karavitis is tucked away in Pangrati, a quiet neighborhood beloved by locals. This taverna offers a simple yet hearty menu, featuring some of the best meat dishes in Athens taverns.

• Ambiance: Cozy indoor seating with wooden barrels and a classic taverna vibe.
• Must-Try Dishes: Lamb chops, grilled meats, and cheese-filled meat patties.
• Why Visit: A local favorite for those craving authentic Greek flavors in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.

5. Exarchia: Rozalia

Set in the bohemian neighborhood of Exarchia, Rozalia is a cozy taverna in Athens with a village-like atmosphere. Its lush outdoor seating makes it a charming escape from the busy city streets.

• Ambiance: A tranquil garden setting that feels far from the urban hustle.
• Must-Try Dishes: Grilled lamb, fried zucchini sticks, homemade orange pie.
• Why Visit: This taverna blends authentic Greek dining with a relaxed, community feel in one of Athens’ liveliest districts.

6. Varvakeios Market: Diporto

Hidden beneath the Varvakeios Market, Diporto is one of the oldest taverns in Athens, offering a no-frills experience with simple yet flavorful dishes. It’s a true throwback to Athens’ culinary past.

• Ambiance: Underground, with wine barrels and vintage decor that transports you back in time.
• Must-Try Dishes: Chickpea soup, fava, fish baked in red sauce.
• Why Visit: For a truly authentic Greek tavern experience, Diporto is a hidden gem not to be missed.

7. Kolonaki: Filippou Restaurant

For nearly 100 years, Filippou has been a staple of traditional Greek dining in Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most elegant neighborhoods. This taverna blends old-world charm with a refined approach to Greek cuisine.

• Ambiance: A quaint, classic dining room with white tablecloths and vintage photographs.
• Must-Try Dishes: Keftedakia (small meatballs), gigantes (baked beans), and saganaki with pastourma.
• Why Visit: A perfect spot for those looking to enjoy Greek food in an upscale yet authentic setting.

8. Kifissia: Katsarina

In the leafy northern suburb of Kifissia, Katsarina has been serving locals since 1893. This family-owned taverna is known for its meat-heavy menu and home-cooked stews.

• Ambiance: A lush garden ideal for a summer meal.
• Must-Try Dishes: Steak, home-cooked stews, and oil-based vegetable dishes.
• Why Visit: A must-visit for meat lovers and those seeking an authentic Greek meal in a beautiful outdoor setting.

9. Exarchia: Peinaleon

With its antique mirrors and old photographs, Peinaleon feels like a step back in time. This taverna offers a simple but delicious menu filled with traditional Greek comfort foods.

• Ambiance: Cozy, nostalgic, and perfect for a quiet meal.
• Must-Try Dishes: Mastelo cheese, pork with fresh fried potatoes, and smoked aubergine dip.
• Why Visit: A hidden gem in the heart of Exarchia, perfect for those who love Greek tavernas with character.

10. Mets: Marathoniti

This basement-level taverna in Mets offers an intimate and authentic dining experience, specializing in meze and grilled meats.

• Ambiance: A cozy, intimate setting with an old-school charm.
• Must-Try Dishes: Gigantes, lamb chops, sausage, and classic meze dishes.
• Why Visit: Ideal for a casual dinner with friends, enjoying simple yet flavorful dishes.

11. Nea Filadelfia: Mister Loukidelis

Located in the Nea Filadelfia district, Mister Loukidelis is famous for its quirky atmosphere and unique dishes, including its famous “testicles meze.”

• Ambiance: Unusual decor with a fun, quirky vibe.
• Must-Try Dishes: Cheese pie, fried cod, and fava puree.
• Why Visit: For adventurous eaters looking to try something different in a fun, laid-back environment.

12. Metaxourgeio: Metaxou

This wine tavern, over half a century old, serves up hearty meals in a nostalgic setting that feels like a piece of old Athens.

• Ambiance: A warm, welcoming vibe with a loyal local following.
• Must-Try Dishes: Chicken in tomato sauce, shrimp pasta, and meat stew with orzo.
• Why Visit: Perfect for those looking to explore historic taverns in Athens with a friendly, neighborhood feel.

Additional Tips:

If you want to dive deeper into Athenian food culture, consider joining a Greek food tour. These tours take you to the best hidden spots in the city, where you can taste everything from local delicacies to street food favorites. Not only will you enjoy delicious food, but you’ll also learn the stories behind these iconic dishes.

Athens Street Food Tour

For street food enthusiasts, the Athens Street Food Tour by MegaPass Athens is a must-do experience. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or colleagues, this 3-hour small-group tour (approximately 12 people) takes you on an exploration of the best street food spots in Athens—a true street food paradise.

What to Expect:

• Taste Authentic Flavors: On this tour, you’ll get to try 6 different original Greek street foods, both sweet and savory, along with traditional drinks. From souvlaki to loukoumades, this tour covers it all.
• A Quick Cultural Dive: In just three hours, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of local Greek food culture, making this ideal for visitors who are in Athens for a short time.
• Family-Friendly: This tour is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering an entertaining and budget-friendly way to explore Athenian cuisine without the fuss of fine dining.
• Learn Mediterranean Recipes: As you taste your way through the streets, you’ll also pick up insights into healthy Greek street food recipes, many of which are based on the Mediterranean diet.
• Flexible Schedule: Whether you prefer to enjoy the vibrant energy of Athens during the day or the charm of the evening, the tour offers both options.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Every food spot on the tour caters to vegetarians, making it inclusive for all dietary preferences.

With this tour, you’ll experience the real flavors of Athens while learning about the city’s culinary traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a street food aficionado, this tour will leave you craving more!

Ready to taste the best of Athens street food? Book your spot today and immerse yourself in an unforgettable culinary adventure!