11 foods you should try in Athens

The Greek capital is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there are some dishes you simply can’t leave Athens without tasting.

1. Souvlaki

Let’s start with the classic. Souvlaki is Athens’ answer to fast food, but it’s so much more than that. Skewers of marinated pork or chicken are grilled over charcoal, then wrapped in warm pita bread with tomatoes, onions, fries and a dollop of tzatziki. You’ll find souvlaki shops on almost every street, and everyone has their favourite spot. It’s cheap, filling and utterly satisfying – perfect if you’re on a budget.

2. Gyros

Often confused with souvlaki, the gyro (pronounced ‘yee-roh’, not ‘jai-row’) is another Athenian staple. Instead of skewers, the meat (usually pork or chicken) is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then sliced thin and served in pita with salad, fries and sauce. It’s the perfect meal on the go when you’re exploring the city. Try it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of paprika for the full experience.

3. Spanakopita

No trip to Athens is complete without a slice of spanakopita. This flaky spinach pie, made with layers of crisp filo pastry, feta cheese, herbs and olive oil, is a staple of Greek bakeries and cafés. It’s perfect for breakfast, a light lunch or a snack on the go. You’ll also find variations like tiropita (cheese pie) and hortopita (wild greens pie), each one as moreish as the last.

4. Loukoumades

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat. Loukoumades are little golden doughnuts, fried until crisp and then drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed walnuts. They’re a traditional Greek dessert, but in Athens you’ll find modern versions topped with chocolate, ice cream or pistachios. Order a plate to share, but don’t be surprised if you end up eating most of them yourself.

5. Moussaka

Moussaka is Greece’s most famous comfort food, and Athens does it especially well. Layers of aubergine, minced meat (usually beef or lamb), potatoes and creamy béchamel sauce are baked until golden and bubbling. It’s rich, hearty and best enjoyed in a cosy taverna with a glass of local red wine. Every cook has their own recipe, so try it in a few places to find your favourite.

6. Fresh fish and seafood

With the sea so close, Athens is a fantastic place to enjoy fresh fish and seafood. Head to a seaside taverna in Piraeus or along the Athenian Riviera and order whatever’s just come off the boat. Grilled sardines, fried calamari, octopus in vinegar and prawns saganaki (with tomato and feta) are all local favourites. Pair your meal with a carafe of chilled white wine or ouzo and you’ll feel like a true Athenian.

7. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a breakfast treat that Athenians adore. This sweet or savoury pastry is made with thin layers of filo and filled with either creamy custard, cheese or minced meat. The custard version, dusted with icing sugar and cinnamon, is especially popular in the morning with a strong Greek coffee. You’ll find bougatsa in bakeries all over the city, often served warm and cut into bite-sized squares.

8. Fava

Not to be confused with fava beans, Greek fava is a creamy yellow split pea purée, usually served as a starter or meze. It sounds simple but it’s so incredibly delicious and usually comes topped with olive oil, lemon, chopped red onions and sometimes capers. Swirl a corner of pita bread through it and you’ll be in heaven. It’s a great example of how Greek cuisine turns humble ingredients into something special.

9. Greek salad (Horiatiki)

You might think you know Greek salad, but the real thing in Athens is a revelation. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, green peppers, red onion, Kalamata olives and a slab of creamy feta are drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano. There’s no lettuce, and the vegetables are always fresh and full of flavour. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal, or a light lunch on a hot day.

10. Stuffed koulouri

Koulouri is the classic sesame bread ring you’ll see everywhere in Athens, but look out for versions stuffed with ham and cheese. They’re perfect for breakfast on the go or a quick snack between sightseeing stops.

11. Portokalopita

Portokalopita is a fragrant, syrup-soaked orange cake that’s a true Greek favourite. Made with layers of shredded filo pastry, yoghurt, eggs and plenty of fresh orange zest, it’s baked until golden and then drenched in a sweet orange syrup. The result is a moist, zesty dessert that’s bursting with citrus flavour. You’ll find portokalopita in many Athenian bakeries and tavernas, often served chilled and perfect with a cup of Greek coffee.