Best Traditional Taverns in Athens: A Local’s Guide
Athens is a mecca for foodies. When visiting the Greek capital, the choice of restaurants and taverns may be overwhelming. In this post, we have selected some of the best traditional taverns in Athens, which promise an unforgettable and authentic experience.
Klimataria: A true essence of Greek taverna
Address: Pl. Theatrou 2, Athens
Set amidst the historic center of Athens, the Klimataria Tavern is a culinary gem that weaves together history, culture, and gastronomy. With a legacy spanning decades since its opening in 1927, this tavern captures the essence of Greek tradition and hospitality.
Passing through its charming entrance, you are instantly transported into a small hidden oasis surrounded by climbing plants. The warm ambiance, adorned with vintage decor and local artwork, evokes a sense of timelessness. The scent of freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes wafts through the air, enticing guests to indulge in the culinary journey ahead.
Klimataria’s menu is a tribute to authentic Greek flavors, showcasing a medley of traditional recipes passed down through generations. From tender souvlaki to rich moussaka, each dish narrates a story of regional ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. Locally sourced olive oil, herbs, and seasonal ingredients are harmoniously blended to create a symphony of taste that pays homage to Greece’s culinary heritage.
The tavern’s genuine warmth extends beyond its ambrosial offerings. The staff, known for their genuine smiles and extensive menu knowledge, treat every visitor like an old friend, forging connections that linger long after the last plate is cleared.
Klimataria Tavern is more than a dining establishment; it embodies Athens’ spirit and is a tribute to the joys of shared meals. For those seeking an unforgettable taste of Greece’s past and present, this tavern is an inviting oasis where culture and cuisine intertwine. You might also enjoy this post: 17 Awesome Greek Food Experiences in Athens
A perfect meal is best enjoyed with live music – one can enjoy live Rembetiko music on the following days:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 22:00 PM onwards
Friday & Saturday at 22:30 PM onwards
Tip: The number of tables here is limited, and reservations are recommended well in advance.
Psaras Tavern: a delightful journey through Greek gastronomy
Address: Erotokritou 16, Athens
Located in the charming streets of Athens, in the heart of the Plaka neighborhood, Psaras Tavern stands out as a culinary gem that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and delectable cuisine, this tavern offers an unforgettable dining experience for both locals and visitors alike.
Upon stepping into Psarras Tavern, the rustic yet inviting décor immediately transports patrons to a bygone era. The tavern’s cozy interior is adorned with traditional Greek elements, creating an authentic atmosphere that resonates with Greece’s rich cultural heritage. The staff’s warm welcomes and genuine smiles add to the overall sense of hospitality.
The menu at Psaras Tavern is a delightful journey through Greek gastronomy. The offerings cater to various palates, from classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki to inventive reinterpretations of traditional recipes. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine on each plate, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. For those seeking an authentic experience, the tavern offers an array of mezes (small plates) that encourage communal dining and sharing.
A highlight of Psaras Tavern is its commitment to showcasing live Greek music and dance. Guests can revel in the sounds of bouzouki, turning dinner into a celebration of Greek culture. This lively entertainment adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience. Live Greek music is available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday starting at 8 p.m.
In conclusion, Psaras Tavern is a must-visit establishment in Athens, harmoniously fusing tradition with contemporary culinary delights. Its inviting ambiance, impeccable service, and mouthwatering dishes paint a vivid picture of Greek culture and hospitality. Whether you’re a local looking for a nostalgic taste of home-cooked meals or a traveler eager to explore authentic Greek cuisine, Psarras Tavern offers an experience that lingers in the heart and the palate.
Also check out our post on: Top 13 Wine Bars in Athens
Oinomageireio Epirus tavern – in the heart of Varvakeio Central Market
Oinomageireio Epirus Tavern in Athens offers a delightful culinary journey to the heart of authentic Greek cuisine through its exceptional menu and unique ambiance. Set right in the heart of Athens’ Varvakeios Central Market, in the butcher’s section, this cozy eatery serves fantastic home-cooked meals.
Over the years, this traditional tavern has become a welcoming spot for the locals working at the central market. Back in the day, night owls dressed in fancy evening wear would come here for a plate of soup after a long night of partying at the Greek bouzouki (Greek nightclubs).
The menu is a symphony of staple Greek flavors—here, you will find a fine selection of famous Greek soups and casserole dishes. It is one of the rare places all over Greece where you can enjoy a plate of magiritsa (Easter soup made from lamb offal, which is served only during Greek Orthodox Easter) at any time of year.
Their signature slow-cooked stews and roasted meats are a testament to their commitment to preserving traditional recipes. Using locally sourced ingredients adds a touch of freshness that elevates every bite.
Whether you’re a seasoned Greek cuisine enthusiast or a newcomer, Oinomageireio Epirus offers a genuine and delectable experience that captures the essence of Greece. The walls of the Epirus Tavern are decorated with photographs of the famous guests who have visited this lovely tavern over the years – the late Anthony Bourdain was also among the curious visitors.
Suppose you’re looking for a true taste of Greece’s culinary heritage in the heart of Athens. In that case, the Oinomageireio Epirus tavern is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Nikitas Tavern – A Timeless Culinary Haven in Psyrri
Ag. Anargiron 19, Athens
Nestled within the labyrinthine streets of the vibrant Psyrri neighborhood, Nikitas Tavern is a testament to tradition and culinary excellence. Established in 1967, this family-owned gem has been enchanting locals and visitors alike with its commitment to serving fresh, homemade delicacies.
From the moment you step into Nikitas Tavern, the warm ambiance welcomes you like an old friend. The friendly staff, some of whom have been part of the Nikitas family for generations, adds a personal touch to the dining experience.
What truly sets Nikitas Tavern apart is its dedication to crafting dishes with the finest ingredients and passion for traditional Greek cuisine. The menu mainly consists of meat dishes, with a small selection of freshly cooked daily specialties.
For a true feast, consider the beef patties—a carnivore’s dream featuring succulent meat seasoned to perfection. Pair them with a glass of local wine recommended by the knowledgeable staff, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a culinary symphony.
The charm of Nikitas Tavern extends beyond the dining room. The quaint outdoor seating on the side streets of Psyrri adds an extra layer of enchantment, providing a delightful setting for an al fresco meal under the stars.
Geros tou Moria Tavern – A Gastronomic Oasis Beneath the Acropolis
Mnisikleous 27, Plaka – Athens
Nestled beneath the timeless grandeur of the Acropolis, Geros tou Moria Tavern in Plaka is a culinary gem. It invites patrons into a world of traditional Greek flavors and unparalleled hospitality.
The charming ambiance of Plaka, one of Athens’ most picturesque neighborhoods, sets the stage for an enchanting dining experience. Geros tou Moria captures the essence of Greek tradition, seamlessly blending authenticity with the allure of the historic surroundings.
The menu at Geros tou Moria is a culinary journey through the heart of Greece. Traditional Greek cuisine takes center stage, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that pay homage to time-honored recipes.
One of the highlights of Geros tou Moria is its idyllic setting along the staircase that leads all the way from the Anafiotika neighborhood along the Mnisikleous street. The outdoor seating area provides an unrivaled backdrop for a meal under the Athenian sky, offering a view of the Acropolis that complements the culinary delights on the table. Live music is available during the evenings.
Diporto – A taverna with roots stretching back to 1887
Sokratous 9 &, Theatrou, Athens
In the heart of Athens, hidden beneath the bustling streets, lies a portal to the past, a place where time stands still amidst the clamor of the city. Diporto, a taverna with roots stretching back to 1887, offers a meal and a journey. This is no ordinary dining experience; it’s an adventure into a world where the essence of the Greek tradition is preserved, a treasure trove of culinary heritage nestled in the city’s vibrant market district.
Imagine descending into a realm where the walls whisper stories of the past, where wine barrels do not just decorate but serve as vessels of history, holding the spirit of Greece within them. Diporto, with its unassuming entrance – actually meaning “two doors,” might easily be missed by the unobservant eye, yet for those who venture through its doors, a world of wonders awaits. The ambiance is a tapestry of the past, with vintage marble sinks, aluminum wine jugs, and garlic wreaths adorning the space, creating an atmosphere that’s almost surreal in its authenticity.
Here, the simplicity of the menu belies the depth of the experience. With only a handful of dishes available daily, based on what’s fresh and in season, Diporto champions the art of home cooking. The taverna is open to the public from 10 in the morning, but the dishes run out fast, especially during the summer season. Getting a table here might be a challenge – if you find one, consider yourself in luck.
The chickpea soup, a wintertime specialty, is a testament to the taverna’s commitment to simple, soulful cuisine. It embodies the essence of comfort, with chickpeas so tender they seem to dissolve at the touch of your tongue, all doused in a generous helping of olive oil. Other staple dishes include fish, beans in red tomato sauce, fava beans, which are slightly spicy but delicious, and casserole-cooked meat dishes.
The house white, a cloudy retsina served in traditional aluminum jugs, complements the meal perfectly, embodying the taverna’s dedication to preserving the flavors and traditions of Greece. With its history stretching back over 2000 years, Retsina is more than just a drink; it’s a link to the past, a reminder of the ancient Greeks’ ingenuity and love for wine.
Diporto is closed on Sundays. On weekdays, it is open until 7 PM, but again, you can never guarantee that you will find a table, so try your luck.
Krasopoulio Tou Kokora – Cozy Greek Tavern
Esopou 4, Athens
In the heart of Psyrri, at the crossroads of Karaiskaki and Aisopou streets, lies a culinary gem that transports its guests back to a Greece of yesteryears. Το Κρασοπουλιό του Κόκορα (The Rooster’s Wine Tavern) stands as a beacon of Greek culinary tradition, offering a delectable array of dishes from across the country. This traditional taverna, adorned with objects reminiscent of last century’s Greece, invites you to savor home-cooked meals alongside a vast selection of grilled specialties. Every choice is exquisite, from the colorful and refreshing salads to the savory pastas and perfectly grilled meats. Not to be missed are the multi-grain salad, the rooster pasta, and the special yogurtlu.
The taverna is closed on Wednesdays and has both indoor and outdoor seating.
Opos Palia
Veikou 2, Athens
Opos Palia, which translates as like the old times, is a delightful, simple tavern located in the heart of Athens, steps away from the Acropolis Museum. The menu offers authentic Greek dishes and feels like a feast from a Greek home kitchen.
Try their Moussaka and classics like the Greek salad, tzatziki, and dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves). Outdoor seating is available, and it’s a great way to get a feel for the Athenian way of life.
Karamanlidika tou Fani – Fanis’ Karamanlidika
1 Sokratous & Evripidou Street, Athens
Fanis’ Karamanlidika is a delightful deli and eatery that bridges Greece’s gastronomic past. Through its unique offerings, it blends Byzantine and Cappadocian influences. Fanis’ Karamanlidika is renowned for its exquisite pastirma and array of cured meats, alongside an enticing menu of mezes (small plates) like the spicy sujuk with eggs and kavourmas beef. Karamanlidika promises an authentic taste of Greek heritage that is both enriching and utterly delicious.
O Telis Brizolakia
Evripidou 86, Athens
Located in the heart of Psyrri since the late ’70s, Telis’ restaurant is a cherished taverna for lovers of authentic Greek flavors. Renowned for its legendary grilled pork chops, crafted from the finest Arta pork, the restaurant has long been a go-to spot for locals.
Under new ownership, Telis continues to honor its rich culinary legacy, serving up its famous dishes, including the succulent pork chops and the beloved spicy medley of grilled tomatoes, peppers, and feta cheese—a long-standing local favorite. Conveniently located on Evripidou Street, just steps away from the bustling Varvakeios Central Market, Telis ensures exceptional quality by sourcing its meats directly from the market. While the team may be new, the essence of Telis remains unchanged—a welcoming spot for hearty, flavorful Greek cuisine that has stood the test of time. If you like places that exude an old-school charm, that’s the place for you.
