Street Food in Athens: A Flavorful Adventure
When Greece and street food are mentioned together, the answer is undoubtedly souvlaki. This pita-wrapped delicacy, along with its numerous contemporary variations, is the quintessential Greek street food. However, it’s not the only option available in Athens. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, sweets, or something unique, there are plenty of places to grab a quick bite while exploring the vibrant Greek capital.
Greek Food Essentials
The celebrated and delicious souvlaki will fill you up and keep you energized for just a couple of euros, sold virtually everywhere in the city. The quality at most places tends to be more than satisfactory, so trying to compile a definitive list of the best wouldn’t make much sense – simply visit the nearest souvlaki joint.
Nevertheless, two souvlaki establishments have achieved legendary status among residents and visitors alike, as they truly stand apart from the rest. Both happen to share the same name. Kostas on Agias Irinis Square tops his renowned souvlaki with a trademark (secret recipe) red spicy sauce, which has garnered loyal fans since 1984.
The second Kostas, located at Pentelis 5, has upheld the legacy of his grandfather, who has been crafting world-famous souvlaki since 1950 a few streets away in Plaka. Interestingly, don’t expect tzatziki here; instead, Kostas opts for plain yoghurt with a touch of parsley, and he closes his shop as soon as his morning supplies run out.
In addition to souvlaki, tyropita (cheese pie) is another very popular Greek snack. Arguably the best traditional tyropita in Athens, along with other classic pies, can be found at Ariston (located at Voulis 10), a bakery in business since 1910. Lastly, the ultimate and most affordable Greek street food, koulouri (a bagel covered in sesame seeds), is readily available from street vendors throughout the city. The earlier you buy it in the morning, the fresher and crunchier it will be.
World Cuisine Options
If you’re looking for international delicacies, downtown Athens is rich with exotic flavors from every corner of the globe. Etnico is a fantastic choice if you can’t decide, offering Mexican, Asian, Indian, and Arabic food—all under one roof and at surprisingly decent quality for a non-specialized eatery.
Additionally, Feyrouz, a lovely family business, provides the best lahmatzoun in town. This spot is the top Middle Eastern street-bite supplier, alongside the tiny Falafellas, offering an array of falafels prepared fresh daily. Street Wok is another great Asian venue where everything is prepared in front of you and enjoyed on the benches of the pedestrian Aiolou Street.
For spicy Indian fare, Mirch is the best option, offering a wide selection of international beers at reasonable prices. If you desire genuine, handmade pirozhki of every kind alongside other Russian delicacies, you can visit either of the two Kalinka Malinka branches in the city center.
Finally, for those seeking truly exotic cuisines, Athens’ street-food scene won’t disappoint. You’ll find Los Loros for authentic Colombian and Venezuelan dishes, or Poké for Hawaiian sushi delights.
Sweet Treats
Fried dough topped with honey and cinnamon, known as loukoumadhes, is a sweet treat adored by generations of Greek children. In this dedicated shop, you’ll taste top-quality, authentic loukoumadhes along with modern variations prepared on demand. Additionally, old-school loukoumadhes can be enjoyed at Krinos (located at Aiolou 87), the first patisserie in the city, which has operated since 1923. The hall boasts a wonderful retro atmosphere, but if you prefer to enjoy something on the go, grab a bougatsa (cream pie)—also one of Krinos’ specialities and one of the most delightful treats you’ll experience in Athens.
Street Snacks
For delicious bagels with creative fillings, visit Amandine. However, for authentic and top-quality offerings, head to Montagu, named after the British nobleman allegedly behind the concept of the sandwich. A name like that promises exceptional sandwiches, which come paired with excellent coffee and refreshing juices. Pie Works in Kolonaki offers a variety of classic and unique pies prepared daily, while Johnie Hot Dog specializes in a multitude of variations of this signature hangover cure, remaining open until the early hours—definitely a convenience for night owls.
Seafood Delicacies
Zisis represents a modern take on a typical ouzerie, allowing you to sit and savor your ouzo or its twin spirit, tsipouro, paired with a selection of fresh seafood. For those in a hurry or preferring takeaway, meals are also served in signature paper cones. For a more traditional experience, seek out Fish café, an authentic fish and chips venue reminiscent of some classic British establishments, located within a unique complex that includes a hostel, sports bar, and a launderette, catering primarily to young visitors near the Acropolis Museum.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you believed that souvlaki was off-limits for vegans, think again. Amanita Grill challenges this notion by replacing meat with mushrooms and introducing the first truly worthwhile vegan souvlaki, located in the alternate neighborhood of Exarhia. Other excellent choices include Vegan Nation and Mama Tierra, both of which offer an array of creative and appetizing meatless options.
