Beneath the honey-colored marbles of the Acropolis, Plaka unspools like a film set: neoclassical façades draped in bougainvillea, lanes scented with jasmine and woodsmoke, the echo of a bouzouki floating over limestone steps. For decades, this oldest quarter of Athens meant one thing to the hungry traveler: the reliable taverna, where enamel platters of keftedes and clay pots of stewed lamb arrived exactly as they had since your grandparents’ honeymoon.
That orthodoxy still thrives – thankfully – but over the past three years a quiet culinary renaissance has threaded itself through Plaka’s cobbles. A new guard of chefs, many trained abroad, have returned home to remix Greek flavors with levity and precision: think sea urchin ladled over warm trahanas, or mastiha-perfumed profiteroles finished with a drizzle of island honey. The result is a neighborhood in rare equilibrium, where you can chase a lunch of charcoal-licked souvlaki with a dinner tasting menu that riffs on Cycladic terroir.
The following guide maps Plaka’s edible time warp, from the candle-lit institutions where the wine is still served in tin carafes to the sleek dining rooms where Acropolis views meets playlist-curated minimalism. Whether you crave the comfort of vine-wrapped dolmades or the thrill of a deconstructed galaktoboureko, Plaka now contains multitudes – and every alley (and rooftop) seems eager to feed you.
Classic Spots
01
Dioskouri
At the base of the Ancient Agora, Dioskouri gives you a delicious slice of Athens’ culinary history. Small tables shaded by lush trees overlook the timeless Temple of Hephaestus. Dig into classics like smoky souvlaki, comforting makaronia me kima, or fresh, vibrant mezedes paired perfectly with chilled ouzo. Here, eating isn’t just dining – it’s savoring moments that linger.
Adrianou 37
02
O Glykis
“O Glykis” serves nostalgia alongside its thick, aromatic Greek coffee. Picture worn blue tables and woven chairs soaking in sunshine – this is Athens at its dreamy best. Enjoy bites of marinated anchovies or sizzling grilled sausages while time softly slows around you, turning simple pleasures into memorable moments.
Geronda Aggelou 2
03
To! Kafeneio
Open since 1836, To! Kafeneio carries Plaka’s culinary soul. Savor hearty grilled lamb, flavorful beef stifado, or nourishing fasolada amid walls adorned with vintage photographs. Dining here feels cozy and welcoming, like an intimate gathering at a dear friend’s home.
Epiharmou 1
04
O Platanos
Since 1932, Platanos Taverna has defined classic Plaka dining beneath its shady plane trees. Enjoy Greek staples like tzatziki, horiatiki salad, mince and rice dolmades covered in a warm egg-lemon sauce, moussaka, ocra cooked with fresh tomato, and lamb roasted golden-brown. Surrounded by playful shadow puppets and photos of Athens past, every bite here connects you gently to tradition.
Diogenous 4
05
Saita
Tucked quietly on Kydathineon Street, Saita charms diners seeking genuine, homey flavors. Grilled lamb chops, savory meatballs, and the irresistible bakaliaros skordalia highlight a kitchen that feels like home. Comfortable and inviting, Saita warmly welcomes every guest.
Kydathinaion 21
06
The Old Tavern of Psarras
Since 1898, The Old Tavern of Psarras has remained the heart and soul of Plaka’s culinary landscape. Dine on rich moussaka or tender grilled octopus accompanied by lively Greek music. Every meal here is spirited and memorable, celebrating Athens through taste, sound, and tradition.
Erechtheos 16
07
Scholarchio
In the bustling heart of Plaka, Scholarchio has been serving up authentic Greek fare for decades, making it a local favorite. This timeless taverna is tucked away from the main tourist flow, offering a slice of traditional Athens that’s perfect for a relaxed, memorable meal. The menu features a range of classic dishes – grilled meats, comforting stews, and creamy feta encased in filo and drizzled with honey – all made with simple, quality ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a casual, serene and down-to-earth vibe.
Tripodon 14
08
Melina Cafe
Step into the charming world of a cafe where the spirit of Greece’s iconic actress turned Minister of Culture Melina Mercouri lingers in every corner. Located near the actress’s former apartment, this café is a tribute to her legacy, with walls adorned with photos and memorabilia from her life. The café serves a selection of traditional Greek dishes, from hearty meze to sweet, flaky bougatsa (Greek pastry). It’s a place where locals and visitors come together, whether for an early morning coffee or a late-night treat, all in a cozy, intimate setting. Melina Mercouri Café isn’t just a place to eat – it’s a space where the history of Athens comes alive, one delicious bite at a time.
Lysion 22
Modern Favorites
01
The Dolli
Perched atop the Grecotel The Dolli, this rooftop restaurant offers sweeping views of the Acropolis. The menu at The Dolli fuses Mediterranean cuisine with Asian influences – think a highly satisfying sushi variety, as well as dishes like crispy duck with steamed pancakes, but also ravioli with goat cheese and truffle, or lamb chops in pan with artichoke sauce. The decor is minimalist, and the open-air setting gives the space a relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Whether you’re after a refined dining experience or a meal accompanied by one of the best views in Athens, this restaurant delivers both in abundance.
Mitropoleos 49
02
Barbounaki
Close to the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral, Barbounaki stylishly brings fresh seafood to the forefront. Crispy red mullet, tender grilled octopus, smoked trout salad, several tartare and carpaccios and succulent casseroles like sardine fillets in tomato sauce pair effortlessly with Greek wines. Vibrant, modern, and effortlessly chic, it’s an ideal spot to share flavors and laughter.
Mitropoleos Square 4
03
Athinaiki Taratsa
A relatively new arrival in the Plaka dining scene that’s already talked about because of its phenomenal Acropolis view, Athinaiki Taratsa offers rooftop dining centred around bright Mediterranean-Levantine flavors. The open kitchen lights up with fires, and foods are stewed or baked in the wood-fired oven and robata. Try the ambelodolmas with beef tartare, grilled lamb with harissa, creamy labneh, and salads bursting with freshness. Sleek yet warm, Taratsa is open from breakfast to dinner.
Mitropoleos 60
04
The Zillers
The Zillers combines sophisticated Mediterranean dishes with stunning rooftop Acropolis views. Dishes from two tasting menus, with creations like crispy Simian shrimps with sea urchin, guinea fowl with wild mushrooms and fig or steamed monkfish with ossetra caviar are paired with an expertly curated wine list. Elegant and refined, dining here feels like a celebration, and it gets even better when you discover they have their own organic food garden where plenty of its materials come from.
Mitropoleos 54
05
Zohós
In the peaceful courtyard of the Electra Palace, Zohós presents a fresh, contemporary take on Greek meze, and more. It serves up vibrant dishes like hortopita – wild greens wrapped in flaky phyllo with a touch of pomegranate molasses – and grilled sardines paired with olives and rock samphire. The ambiance blends neoclassical elegance with a lush, natural backdrop, creating a sensory journey. Sustainability is key here, with local, seasonal ingredients taking center stage. The wine list features over 60 labels, carefully selected to match the bold flavors of the menu.
Navarchou Nikodimou 18-20
06
Ergon House
Ergon House blends marketplace freshness with modern dining excellence. Enjoy seafood straight from the market, perfectly roasted meats, and fresh, flavorful salads. The men here is extensive, with plenty of options depending on tastes and moods. You can choose among home baked traditional pies, rich risottos, slow cooked stews, grilled meats, fresh fish and an array of meze dishes. Stylish and comfortable, infused with natural light and lively chit chat, this urban meeting spot successfully showcases the best of fresh, authentic and topical Greek produce, and is perfect for casual meals or leisurely gatherings.
Mitropoleos 27
07
Okio
Okio boldly blends Mediterranean and Asian flavors into dishes lthat are deeply flavourful with vibrant seasonings and combinations. Try miso-glazed aubergine, or cod with nori, beurre blanc, mussels and celeriac, or the lamb with cream, kalathaki cheese, peppers and olives. Minimalist design highlights the creative cuisine, making every meal exciting and memorable.
Nikis 33 & Navarchou Nikodimou 3
08
MONO Wine Restaurant
A great place to start they at because of its exceptional brunch, stop at mid central Athens flurry for a tasty panini or focaccia or enjoy an assortment of deli treats with some excellent pairings in the evening. Its intimate, minimalist vibe and cheerful menu creates a perfect atmosphere for relaxed, sophisticated dining, and the familial vibe adds to the charm.
Mitropoleos 28
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