Athens Dining Guide for every budget

It’s time to finally share my Athens dining guide for every budget and help you plan your dream foodie trip to Athens! I must admit that I never expected the capital of Greece to be such a highlight when it comes to dining experiences. Apart from an overload of Greek food, this city has something for everyone. You can find trendy coffee spots, rooftop bars, delicious ice cream, plenty of international cuisine and amazing sweets, all at competitive prices.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, I highly recommend that you include Athens in your itinerary. It is a bustling city with a lot of unique sights and plenty of culinary experiences to go with it. Below you’ll find my Athens dining guide for every budget.

I generally found Athens to be a relatively affordable city in terms of food prices. It’s easy to find high-quality food and treat yourself without breaking the bank, and the city has a fun cafe culture which will make you want to go cafe-hopping between new spots every day.

Must try dishes while dining in Athens

Vacationing in Greece is all about finding and enjoying the best of all the amazing food that the country has to offer. Below, you’ll find some of the best dishes that you cannot miss when visiting Greece:

1. Moussaka – Some people call it the Greek version of a lasagna, and it’s easy to compare the two although the flavors are quite different from each other. The moussaka has a hearty, slightly cinnamon-y flavor, and while it’s heavy, it’s not as heavy as a lasagna. Core ingredients are aubergine, minced beef and cheese sauce. It’s an incredible dish that’s usually served as a main course, and it’s something you won’t get enough of. 

2. Tzatziki with bread – I’ve had tzatziki at home and I’ve always liked it, but tzatziki in Greece is a whole different story. The garlic flavor is a lot more powerful, and it’s just a mindblowing experience on a whole other level. Order it as a side dish or a starter along with some bread and you’ll see what I mean.
3. Greek Salad – I’m so happy that something healthy like a salad is making it onto the list, because it tends to be dominated by less healthy stuff. However, a Greek Salad is such a refreshing treat in the summer heat. The vegetables are super fresh, the olive oil is at its peak performance and it’s a light treat so you can’t really get enough of it. The feta cheese is really solid but crumbles with a little force, it’s so nice to mix it in with the rest of the salad. Even thinking about it makes me hungry.

4. Cheese Balls – These, fried little treats filled with melted cheese are perfect as a little appetizer. They’re just as indulgent as they look, and something you must try when you see it on the menu.

5. Greek Lamb – I’m usually not very into lamb as a type of meat, but the Greeks are known for being really good at these dishes so I thought I had to give it a try. I’m glad I did, because this was one of the best lamb dishes I’ve had in my life, and I can highy recommend trying at least one lamb dish when you’re visiting.

6. Greek Yoghurt with honey and walnuts – The Greeks take great pride in their yoghurt and honey, and it’s easy to see why. The flavor combination of the sweet honey and the slightly sour yoghurt is perfect, and the walnut sprinkles on top make it even better. This is a pretty light, but really yummy dessert that’s definitely worth trying. I know it’s a bit strange to eat yoghurt for dessert, but this is worth making an exception for.

7. Pistachio treats – The pistachio flavour is extremely popular in Greece, and that’s especially true on the island of Aegina – also known as pistachio island. They have a cafe there that’s entirely dedicated to pistachios and pistachio flavoured treats. The cafe is called Aiakeion and you can find more information about it HERE. I highly recommend taking at least a day trip to Aegina if it suits your itinerary. It’s very easy to get to as it only takes an hour and costs around 10 EUR one way.

8. Frappe – The coffee culture in Greece is on another level and they’re particularly good at iced coffee beverages. The Frappe is usually made from instant coffee, water, sugar and milk. I first reacted a bit to how strong the coffee flavour was. It was a bit unexpected for me, but once I got used to it I came to really enjoy it! You’ll find plenty of frappe and coffee recommendations below!

Guide to my favorite Greek restaurants in Athens

To Kafeneio

This is the quintessential Greek Trattoria with colourful chairs, some of the best Greek food I’ve ever had, and incredible meatballs with a sauce that you can’t stop dipping the bread in. We were here on our first day by coincidence, and enjoyed the food so much that we came back on our last day as well to enjoy it once more.

Address: Epicharmou 1, Athina 105 58, Greece

Kostarelos Deli

This little deli is located in a very quaint part of Athens and they have some really good charcuterie platters with Greek cheese, and especially aged feta cheese. Also make sure that you try the baked feta cheese for a unique experience that you’re unlikely to be able to have anywhere else. We visited this place after we’d seen Mark Wiens feature it on his Youtube Channel. His Athens videos were very helpful for us when planning our trip and I highly recommend watching those if you’re planning to visit. You can find the link to his Greece playlist HERE.

Address: Patriarchou Ioakim 30-32, Athina 106 75, Greece

Metropolis Roof Garden

When travelling, I always try to book something special for the last night of the trip, and this was my choice in Athens. The restaurant is located on the top floor of Electra Metropolis Hotel, which I’ve made a video about here. Being able to gaze out over the rooftops as well as the Acropolis while having dinner was the best possible way to end our time in Athens.

The menu is exceptional yet simple, the service is really good and the surroundings are truly magical. You get a lovely experience in relation to the cost of coming here, and you’ll get to enjoy a slow-paced three-course dinner while watching Athens transition from day to night.

Address: Mitropoleos 15, Athina 105 57, Greece

Lithos Tavern

This is a lovely classic Greek tavern in a beautiful and lively part of Athens. The food is delicious and I specifically recommend trying the Moussaka. The service is also great and overall atmosphere is extremely friendly.

Address: Esopou 17, Athina 105 54, Greece

Attalos Restaurant

Attalos Restaurant is the perfect spot if you’re looking for classic, affordable Greek food in a central location with a beautiful outdoor dining area and views of a quaint pedestrian street right next to the Ancient Agora Archaeological site. The staff is really welcoming and took very good care of us during our visit.

As you can see, it is a beautiful location to enjoy a more than reasonably-priced dinner. They have all the classic dishes, portions are huge, and there are many cute cats in the area that you can hang out with a well.

We ordered a tzatziki, some bread and a classic Greek salad for starters. I also got a generous serving of Sangria. I got Pastitsio as my main dish while my partner got the Moussaka. Both were really good but huge in terms of serving size. At the end, I got some Greek Yogurt with honey for a semi-healthy dessert.

Address: Adrianou 9, Athina 105 55, Greece

A guide to the Best brunch spots for every budget in Athens

Little Kook

If there is one brunch spot that you have to visit in Athens, it’s Little Kook. This themed cafe goes all in with new decor each season. I visited during Halloween and it was so elaborate. Not only do they change the decor, they also change the menu, the presentation of the food, the outfits for the staff, and the music. It’s not only for brunch, it’s essentially a cafe so they have plenty of good all-day choices.

How about the crepes or American pancakes? There are many good drink choices too, but I especially recommend trying a fun cocktail or a classic Greek Frappe (Greek iced coffee). The cafe outdoor seating area is large anf spans over three streets, so you won’t have any problems finding a table.

Generally, the flavours are on point and the service is good. The prices are on the steeper side for Athens, but the experience is worth the money. We went here twice during our week-long visit to Athens and would happily come back for more.

Address: Karaiskaki 17, Athina 105 54, Greece

The Makers

Part concept store and part brunch spot, The Makers is where you’ll find the most aesthetic brunch spot in town. The food holds a high quality level too, and there is plenty to choose between from the menu. Prices are affordable in relation to the generous portions and I’d advise you to stick to one item per person and avoid doubling up like I did. I enjoyed everything a lot, but the Avocado waffle could have been more exciting. I would, however definitely come back and enjoy this brunch again.

Address: Praxitelous 37, Athina 105 60, Greece

Estrella

Estrella makes their dishes look incredible and they’re focused on classic American-style brunches with dishes such as Red Velvet and classic American pancakes, and various sorts of milkshakes. They have a wide selection of savoury dishes too, and I can promise that you’ll find something you enjoy. From eggs cooked in every way to pancakes, burgers, pasta, juices and cocktails, there is something for everyone. They have a large outdoor seating area and it’s pretty easy to get a table. Don’t expect too powerful flavours as they are significantly weaker than they would be in the US. It’s still a really nice treat though and it’s worth trying of you’re looking for a good brunch spot in the area.

Address: 24A Romvis Str., Syntagma, Athens, Greece

A guide to unique cafes for every budget in Athens

Hans & Gretel

The theme goes without saying. A lots of candy and sweet treats. I was too full from everything else and actually never bought anything here but had to go in and take a look at all the sweets.

Ellyz Cafe

Pink cafés are a trend that we get to see a lot of these days across various cities around the globe. Athens is no exception. They’re hooked on themed cafés, and why wouldn’t one of them be a pink café? I’ve had a few good and a few bad experiences with these types of cafes at this point, but Ellyz actually turned out to be a pretty good one. We got a good table outside, the service was good, and although we only went for beverages, you could tell that they put a lot of effort into what they’re serving. Here you’ll find plenty of nice beverages (coffee and cocktails), brunch dishes and cakes.

The cakes looked absolutely stunning and perfect to order for special occasions as well. The cocktails and coffee looked beautiful and flavours were good too. This type of place can be on the more expensive side due to Instagram popularity and the pink theme, but it was pretty affordable given the popularity.

If you’re looking for a good café to rest for a bit and do some people watching, this is the perfect spot for it, and make sure to snap a few photos of all the pink decor, cakes and florals as well. If you want to check out the menu (there’s plenty of pictures of everything, I’ll leave a direct link HERE.)

Address: Agiou Filippou 11, Athina 105 55, Greece

Overoll Croissanterie

Overoll Croissanteire is another place that completely blew my mind while in Athens. Visiting this place for breakfast became an obsession and we even bought croissants to take home to Sweden in hope that they would last for the next morning. The croissants are stunning to look at, taste amazing, and there are plenty of flavours to choose between. My favorite was the pistachio but I was also very much in love with all their cakes, the pain au chocolate and the coffee drinks.

We’ve kept talking about this place ever since our visit and promised that if we get to Athens again, even if it’s just for a day before travelling further towards the islands, we have to visit Overall for their croissants. I still haven’t had a better croissants than the ones I got to enjoy there.

Address: Praxitelous 27, Athina 105 60, Greece

Coffee Berry

Athens knows their coffee and Coffee Berry is one of the more premium coffee shops you’ll find in town.Here you’ll find a unique selection of coffee drinks, tea and other beverages available for there, to go or to purchase packaged to take home. If you enjoy beverages such as the Frappuccino’s at Starbucks, chances are high that you’ll enjoy plenty of the options available here as well. Coffee Berry has several branches around Athens and feels like a more luxurious version of Starbucks.

Address: Voukourestiou 11, Athina 106 71, Greece and various other locations around Athens

Dining guide to the best quick bites for every budget in Athens

Falafellas

Wow, this hole in the wall Falafel spot is some of the best you’ll find in the city. Athenians know their falafels and Falafellas is such a good example of it. The food is incredible, people are lining up on the street, and you’ll enjoy every bite of it. It’s also a really affordable choice if you’re on a budget, and you can customize it according to your preferences too. It’s perfect when you’re tired from a day of sightseeing and just want to get back to where you’re staying and eat in bed or something like that! Keep in mind though that there’s no actual seating at Falafellas, it’s take away only, but it’s easy to find a nice spot in Athens where you can sit down and enjoy your meal.

Address: Aiolou 51, Athina 105 51, Greece

Hoocut

Getting a table at Hoocut might be a challenge, but if you’re pushy or patient you’ll get one, and it will be worth the wait. This is the perfect spot for affordable Greek dishes like souvlakis or Gyro’s. Flavours are on point and don’t miss out on the fries.

Address: Pl. Agias Irinis 9, Athina 105 63, Greece

Ariston

If you’re looking for high-quality authentic Greek pies, Ariston is an incredible place to try it. This place has been around for numerous years, and they’ve used the same recipe for over 30 years. It’s incredibly affordable, and I’ll tell you, cheap eats don’t get better than this. Make sure to try the spinach pie!

Address: Voulis 10, Athina 105 62, Greece

Best dessert spots

Le Greche

Although Gelato might not be a very Greek experience, Le Greche is a magnificent spot for a Greek gelato to cool down in the heat. You’ll find some unique flavours here too, such as baklava and tiramisu flavour. If you’re not in the mood for gelato, there are plenty of pastries available too.

Address: Mitropoleos 16, Athina 105 63, Greece

Amygdalo

This healthy café is easily noticeable because of the beautiful entrance. Amygdalo is pink with florals, and inside you’ll find plenty of treats and beverages that are all intended to be on the healthier side. We ordered Granita’s when we visited, one with mango passionfruit flavour, and one with blueberry and raspberry to enjoy at the square right across from this place. It kind of resembled an iced slush, but had a less sugary flavour. I enjoyed it a lot and would happily come back for more!

Address: Epimenidou 1, Athina 105 58, Greece

Bars

Hotel Bar at Le Grand Bretagne

This is the priciest spot on the list and when you enter this hotel it’s easy to understand why. Le Grand Bretagne is the most luxurious hotel in Athens and that transcends throughout the whole experience. The service is unparallelled and the cocktails are as professional and sophisticated as it gets. It’s a prime vantage point for Acropolis and city views, and the people watching is really good too. 

Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Str, Athina 105 64, Greece

Tiki Bar Athens

If you’re looking for tropical vibes and delicious food and drinks in a central Athens location, look no further than this. This Tiki Bar in Athens a a generously sized outdoor patio, delicious food and refreshing drinks. You get free popcorn and it was very easy to get comfortable there for a few hours during the hottest times of the day.

Address: Falirou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece

Cafeteria Prasini Tenta at Mount Lycabettus

If you’re planning on going up Mount Lycabettus (the highest mountain with the best views in central Athens), Prasini Tenta is a really good spot to catch a break. It’s also a beautiful spot for a dinner with a view. This restaurant and bar is halfway up, so you still have a long way to go of you’re planning to go all the way up. The good thing is that buildings in Athens aren’t that tall, so the view is really good even if you decide to stop here.

This place serves a little but of everything. You can enjoy food, coffee or cocktails so it’s suitable for any time of the day.

Address: Μονοπατι Λυκαβηττου/ Mount Lycabettus, Athina 114 71, Greece

Other treats

Bakeries

In addition to the cafe’s I’ve previously mentioned, there are several high-quality traditional Greek bakeries around Athens. It’s perfect if you’re on a budget! Make sure to take a look inside and check out the freshly baked goods and pastries. Don’t forget to buy yourself a treat or two.

Markets

There are many food markets in Athens, with the most famous one has to be the Varvakios Market. Visiting a market is the perfect choice of you’re looking to dine well on a budget in Athens! I personally didn’t enjoy this particular market too much, as the meat displays were a little bit too graphic. It is, however one of the most centrally located and famous markets in the city, so it’s still worth a visit of you want to see a lot of the local produce.

Questions about food in Athens?

I really hoped you enjoyed my Athens dining guide for every budget and that you’ve found some great inspiration for your trip. Let me know if you have any questions about the spots above or planning your trip to Athens in general. I’d love to help you out! If you want to learn more about these food spots, check out my videos on Instagram. I’ve made a comprehensive food guide that you can find HERE. If you enjoyed this concept and want to see more food guides from me, make sure to check out my Positano food guide as well HERE. I’ll also be doing more Italy food guides soon so check back for that!

Have you ever visited Athens? What is your favorite restaurant there? Make sure to share it in the comments!