Bars and restaurants
Gallina, Koukaki
A newcomer to the vibrant Koukaki neighbourhood, Gallina (pictured above) is a treat for both diners and design lovers. Its elegant and bold mid-century aesthetic spans from the marble tabletops to the terrazzo flooring. The food is similarly confident, combining Greek, French and Scandinavian cuisines.
Taverna Ton Filon, Kolonos
A dimly lit dining room with white tablecloths and café curtains, Taverna Ton Filon offers a compact, can’t-go-wrong menu paired with Greek wines from small producers. Chef Yannis Mousios cooks with an easy hand, serving up classic dishes that vary almost daily.
Fita, Neos Kosmos
This minimalist gastro taverna has a menu that varies most days. Reminiscent of old Athenian kafenia (traditional cafés serving drinks and meze), patrons can eat at an elevated counter that offers a chance to observe the open kitchen.
Akra, Pangrati
A favourite for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, Akra opened in 2023. Dishes are grilled in front of you and are best enjoyed with a glass of Greek wine from the small but thoughtful wine list.
Café Avissinia, Monastiraki
On the doorstep of a famous flea market, this classic Athenian stop-in is a cabinet of curiosities. Alongside its excellent views of the Acropolis, the restaurant is famous for its comforting dishes including cheesy aubergines and the best baked potatoes in Athens.
Galaxy Bar, Syntagma
One of the oldest bars in Athens, Galaxy opened in 1972. It was originally decorated by a set-and-costume designer and has barely changed since. Featuring a leather-edged counter and walls crowded with portraits, the classic decor is complemented by discreet service.
Materia Prima, Koukaki
Materia Prima was founded after a trip to Sicily in which sommelier Michalis Papatsibas discovered natural wines. With a first location in Koukaki and another in Pagrati, both wine bars feature artwork by calligrapher Greg Papagrigoriou and walk-in cellars.
Anäna, Syntagma
At Anäna you’ll sip speciality coffee made with freshly harvested beans that are roasted in-house. In a 1930s building that formerly housed a kombologadiko (worry beads) shop, Anäna maintains a vintage Athenian atmosphere thanks to a charming courtyard and terrazzo-floored interiors.
Kora, Kolonaki
Kora is the capital’s first sourdough-specialist bakery. At the foot of Lycabettus Hill, in the upscale neighbourhood of Kolonaki, you’ll find a yellow and white-fronted spot with floor-to-ceiling windows filled with crusty loaves, flaky croissants and sticky cinnamon rolls.
Afoi Asimakopouloi, Exarchia
Asimakopouloi patisserie has been an Athenian mainstay since 1915. Each day begins with deliveries of local ingredients, which are used to create everything from rice puddings and galaktoboureko (a semolina-custard pie) to mango pastry cakes and tsoureki (a sweet bread).
