10 Best Local Restaurants in Athens

Karamanlidika is a restaurant-cum-deli in Athens that specialises in authentic Anatolian cuisine. Set in a renovated neoclassical house, the eatery is themed as a Byzantine pastomageireio – a bistro specialising in charcuterie and preserved meats.

On top of the exquisite selection of cold cuts and cheeses, Karamanlidika’s menu also includes plenty of tempting meze bites to mix and match. Some of the many highlights include soutzouki meatballs, and speciality kavourmas (sautéed meat) or pastourmas (cured beef). If that all seems a bit too carnivorous, fear not – the kitchen also serves some delicious vegetarian options. The fried aubergine and courgette in a Cappadocian sauce is a particular local favourite.

Maiandros is a traditional Greek restaurant famed for its authentic cuisine and friendly atmosphere. Located in Athens’ historic centre, the atmospheric tavern is well-positioned for sightseers looking to refuel after soaking up the city’s famous landmarks.

The owners pride themselves on creating a bygone Mediterranean atmosphere, and the tasty menu is filled with home-cooked cuisine designed with simpler times in mind (think hearty gyros, succulent Greek salads, and flavoursome stuffed peppers). Maiandros’ cosy interior adds to the vintage allure, with its traditional Greek decor and rustic furnishings. Grab a seat by the window for a spectacular view of the Acropolis.

Psarochori is a seafood restaurant in Athens that combines mouthwatering gastronomy with minimalist chic. Leaning into the nautical theme, the bright and airy restaurant is designed to give guests the sensation of being transported to an idyllic Greek island. The modern interior is clean and uncluttered, an aesthetic that’s perfectly in keeping with the well-formed marine menu.

Despite its sophisticated appearance, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, thanks in no small part to the friendly waiting staff. The menu is comprised of elegantly formed seafood delights, with options like grilled eels with beetroot, sea bream ceviche, and mussel orzotto (Greek risotto). After your main, consider a post-dinner pick-me-up with one of their highly potent Greek coffees.

Liondi Traditional Greek Restaurant is a charming eatery close to Athens’ iconic Acropolis landmark. The family-led team behind the venue take pride in their ultra-friendly customer service, promising special attention to every guest. Positioned next to the Acropolis Museum, Liondi is a convenient meal stop for those soaking up the distinct Athenian culture.

The restaurant serves a hearty selection of local favourites, with moussaka, pastitsio, and grilled octopus just some of the popular dishes on offer. No meal here would be complete without a refreshing glass of Leontiti, a homespun wine lovingly produced by the Liondi family.

Tavern Klimataria is a traditional local restaurant in Athens serving homemade meals in an atmospheric environment. Blessed with an idyllic courtyard adorned with lush vines and glistening greenery, this traditional taverna opened in the 1920s and still serves traditional dishes inspired by the Halkidiki region.

Klimataria’s far-reaching menu is formed of fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, featuring an abundance of roast meats, seafood, and freshly-cut salads. Some of the rustic highlights include stuffed aubergine, spit-roast kokoretsi, and traditional Greek sausages. The restaurant has a well-stocked wine cellar, and an after-dinner shot of their infamous tsipouro liqour is sure to put a spring in the step of anyone brave enough to try.

Oikonomou is an unfussy taverna serving lovingly prepared meals in a laidback environment. Considered something of an Athenian institution by locals, Oikinomou’s delicious homemade stews make it an ever-popular choice for diners looking for a little Greek-style soul food.

Entering the restaurant is like taking a step back in time, thanks to its traditional decor and uniquely Greek ambience. Oikonomou was established in 1930 and, since eateries of this kind are slowly closing their doors across the city, it’s one of Athens’ oldest surviving tavernas. The menu of fully authentic local dishes includes irresistible meze, stews and meats, all served with lashings of refreshing wine and fiery ouzo.  

To Kati Allo is a no-frills taverna in Athens known for its homely Greek cuisine and old-time allure. The family-run restaurant is well-situated for holidaymakers, perched in a premium location just beside the Acropolis museum. Despite its proximity to the city’s tourist hot spots, it remains a firm favourite with local Athenians.

The tempting menu is changed daily, with rotating specials advertised on the blackboard outside. The staff are happy to describe the nuances of each dish, with stuffed peppers, Greek salad and roasted lamb among the many specialities.

Nikitas is a neighbourhood taverna beloved by locals for its hearty cuisine and authentic family-run feel. Tucked away in a secluded side street in the Psiri neighbourhood, the restaurant has outside seating that’s often packed. Once seated, you’re treated to a fully legitimate Greek dining experience with lovingly prepared meals and warm hospitality.

The restaurant has been running since 1967, maintaining a regular clientele thanks to its generously proportioned staples like souvlaki, spit-roast chicken and pork kontosouvli, as well as Creten dakos salad. If you’re looking for food like Greek mamas used to make, this is the place.

Efcharis is a rustic taverna that offers tasty local fare and alfresco dining in Athens. Situated close to Hadrian’s Arch and the Roman Forum of Athens in an area steeped in history, this delightful restaurant is equally popular among tourists and locals. The outdoor seating area resembles a traditional courtyard, with the vine-laden decor adding abundant charm to the open-air dining experience.

The taverna serves tasty Mediterranean breakfasts in the morning, and the lunch and dinner menus contain plenty of local favourites. Indecisive diners can take advantage of the mixed meat and seafood options, while the gemista-style stuffed tomatoes and peppers are worth trying.

Ama Lachei is an alluring restaurant in Athens’ Exarcheia neighbourhood, featuring a large vine-covered patio that was a schoolyard in its previous life. Indoors, the high ceilings of the former classrooms combined with the friendly staff help make for a breezy and pleasant dining experience.

The expansive Ama Lachei menu features Greek specialities alongside a variety of Mediterranean favourites, and – due to its impressive scope – a shared pick-and-mix approach is highly recommended. The roasted manouri cheese salad is a popular choice, while the skioufichta with mushrooms and truffle oil is a delicious Cretan take on the Italian pasta.