Where to Eat in Athens, Right Now

WHERE TO STAY

Athens has a handful of really cool properties, and we love that they’re also pretty affordable for city hotels. On this trip we stayed at the penthouse at 10am lofts, a multi-disciplinary space owned by Greek creative Eva Papadaki. Set in a six-story industrial building in the Gazi district, the space combines an event venue, a penthouse, four lofts, and 10AM apotheke, Papadaki’s soulful boutique selling Greece-made products. Interiors here balance raw industrial elements with warm textures and curated details, while the lofts feature open kitchens and the brand’s signature toiletries. If you want space and apartment-style living, this is the place to book.

Mona Athens · Athens

For a central location near some great restaurants and a more traditional hotel experience, we love Mona. Located in a former textile factory, the 20-room boho hotel is a study in industrial-chic design. The sister property to boutique favorite Shila (another favorite stay, just smaller and slightly less central), it draws a cool, creative crowd with its high-design suites (especially the penthouses), Acropolis-view rooftop, and art-filled common spaces. The breakfast—served until 1pm—feels more like a curated feast than a hotel spread. With its thoughtful details, great location, and reasonable rates, Mona is a gem for travelers who want style without stuffiness. P.S. AmiGo Premium users get a 10% discount on room rates and spa services at both Mona and Shila.

8 BEST NEW RESTAURANT OPENINGS

ΖΙΓΚΟΑΛΑ · Athens

ΖΙΓΚΟΑΛΑ

ΖΙΓΚΟΑΛΑ was an instant hit upon opening this winter. This city-center spot is lauded for its old-school vibe and classic Athenian taverna feel, with exceptional quality dishes from a Palestinian chef. Think a burrito-like pita with chicken, sumac onions, and yogurt, or white bean stew with orange, tarama, and smoked trout. Try to book seats at the bar overlooking the open kitchen.

September 18 · Athens

September 18

It’s hard to pick a favorite time to visit the recently opened September 18, a chilled-out, laid-back cafe for breakfast (served until 1pm), lunch and dinner. It has a friendly, local vibe, and while the menu draws light inspiration from Copenhagen, it doesn’t adhere to a specific cuisine, focusing instead on seasonal Greek produce. In the evening, that might include beef tartare, charred cauliflower with almond cream and pickled grapes, or tagliolini al limone.

Δώδεκα Πιάτα Κουκάκι · Athens

Δώδεκα Πιάτα Κουκάκι

The second location of a Koukaki restaurant of the same name, this beautiful arrival comes from chef Pavlos Kyriakis. The elegant taverna offers seasonal Greek cuisine of the highest quality and a chic, minimalist dining room with white tablecloths and bronze chandeliers. The menu has just 12 dishes and skews traditional—think spicy feta with Florina pepper, seasonal greens with dill and lemon, and pork gyros with paprika and rosemary.

Teleion · Athens

Teleion

Set in a renovated old pastry shop in the up-and-coming Kypseli neighborhood, this buzzy listening bar is the current go-to for a cool ambiance, great music, and craft cocktails. It’s downright packed on weekend nights (in a good way), with locals mingling over spicy margaritas, Negronis, and more.

Argentina The Social Club · Athens

Argentina The Social Club

This cool bar is open all day long, for coffee and pastries in the morning and cocktails and satisfying bar food in the evening. The atmosphere is enhanced with a moody vinyl soundtrack and rotating line-up of DJs, and the burger is very noteworthy (wash it down with a martini).

Alouatou Athens · Athens

Alouatou Athens

Alouatou slings pastries and sourdough in the AM, before shifting gears to Japanese-influenced Greek small plates in the evening. What exactly does that entail? Think dishes including gochujang whipped feta, green beans with tomato confit and ponzu, and charcoal-grilled miso beef.

BAR IDEAL · Athens

Bar Ideal

Another new entrant on the all-day bar scene, Bar Ideal serves coffee in the morning and cocktails in the evening, when a DJ also comes out to spin vinyls. It’s a nice stop in Panepistimio for a pre-dinner cocktail.

Taverna Ermou Athens · Athens

Taverna Ermou

The latest restaurant from the ERGON House team, Ermou serves classic Greek fare with a focus on seafood. The crowd-pleasing spot has a modern taverna atmosphere, with authentic, cozy dishes including a spanakopita-inspired dip, seafood pasta with a lemon-butter sauce, and shrimp saganaki.

EDITORS’ SHORTLIST: 13 CAN’T-MISS ATHENS RESTAURANTS

ΛΙΝΟΥ ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ ΚΑΙ ΣΙΑ · Athens

ΛΙΝΟΥ ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ ΚΑΙ ΣΙΑ

This neo-taverna is housed in a former candle shop that has been renovated with a sleek, modern design. The superb modern Greek cuisine highlights organic ingredients in such dishes as tuna tartare with confit potato and a tomato and olive salad topped with local brie cheese.

Taverna ton Filon · Athens

Taverna ton Filon

This ever-so-slightly modernized taverna has warm service, exceptional classic Greek plates, and a charming setting. Don’t skip the potatoes, pork chop, or chocolate mousse.

Manári Taverna · Athens

Manári Taverna

From local chef Ari Vezené—known for Athenian favorites Birdman and Vezené—this taverna is all about open-fire grilling. The menu features huge platters of carnivore favorites like lamb chop, beef bifteki, and sirloin with potatoes cooked in sheep fat. It’s a great spot for a fun group feast.

Oikonomou Tavern · Athens

Oikonomou Tavern

Book ahead for a memorable meal at this institution that has been serving local cuisine since 1930. The super casual spot is filled with beautiful Greek art, which can be enjoyed alongside classic dishes like fried saganaki and spanakopita. The outdoor terrace is the ideal spot on a nice day.

Stani · Athens

Stani

One of the last dairy stores left in Athens, this classic has been open since 1931 and is most famous for its sheep yogurt served smothered in golden honey and walnuts. Come for breakfast or a snack, or even dessert—Stani serves a large menu of sweet Greek desserts.

Kennedy Vins · Athens

Kennedy Vins

Athens is known for its wine bar scene, and this is one of the city's most stylish spots. With vinyl records and small plates, Kennedy is helmed by Chris Kontos, the photographer and editor of the Athens-based magazine of the same name.

Wine is fine · Athens

Wine is Fine

Buzzy, Parisian-style wine bar with delicious small plates—think oeuf mayonnaise, steak tartare, and cacio e pepe. It's a thoroughly enjoyable spot to hangout, people-watch from the terrace, and linger over some great wine.

Diporto · Athens

Diporto

For a classic Greek meal, look no further. This old-school spot has been open for more than 100 years, doesn't have a sign or a menu, and occupies a simple, basement-level space. The food is simple and super fresh—just ask what is best that day and order it. It's a no-frills, authentic experience—best for lunch.

Pharaoh · Athens

Pharaoh

This buzzy spot is known for its natural wine, vinyl collection, and wood-fired dishes. Try to sit at the bar and don’t miss the tomato salad with manouri cheese.

Akra · Athens

Akra

Seasonal restaurant offering delicious wood-fired cooking in a sleek dining room in Pangrati. The menu is modern Greek, and the desserts are particularly noteworthy (think sourdough bread gelato with hazelnuts). It’s also really popular for brunch.

Seychelles · Athens

Seychelles

Seychelles is known for its updated Greek classics and very local feel. Try to snag a table on the outside terrace.

Galaxy Bar · Athens

Galaxy Bar

Galaxy Bar is a true old-school spot that dates back to 1972 and has everything you’d expect from a historic bar: dim interiors, strong martinis, etc.

Foyer Espresso Bar · Athens

Foyer Espresso Bar

Foyer is our favorite coffee stop in the city. Plus, is has some nice pastries and a small but well-curated book selection.

Looking for more Athens intel? Read our Athens GoGuide, which includes the 23 spots on our Editors’ Shortlist—so you can find the essentials without digging.