The Food of Athens & Where to Find It: A Local’s Guide

At first glance Athens is all about history and ancient ruins, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise! With its abundant sunshine, fertile lands, and rich culinary traditions, Greek food is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and time-honored recipes. From the bustling tavernas of Plaka to the trendy eateries of Kolonaki, Athens offers a mouthwatering variety of dishes—whether you're craving street food, seafood, or traditional meze.

So, if you’re wondering what to eat in Athens and where to find the best local flavors, consider this your ultimate food guide—from gyros to olives, honey to souvlaki, and everything in between. Ready? Let’s dive in!

And before you do, check our tours in Athens -->

Olive Oil: The Heart of Greek Cuisine

📍 Where to buy: Diḗrēs – Near the Athens Central Market
🫒 Local tip: Visit in October or November for the freshest extra virgin olive oil

Greece is one of the world’s top producers of olive oil, and you’ll taste it in almost every dish here. Locals drizzle it over salads, bread, grilled meats, and even desserts—it’s practically liquid gold! The best time to buy fresh, high-quality extra virgin olive oil is during the harvest season in October and November, when the olives are freshly pressed.

For the best selection, head to Diḗrēs near the Varvakios Market—they produce their own top-quality olive oil and even offer EU-wide delivery, so you can take a taste of Athens home with you.

Greek Honey: The Nectar of the Gods

📍 Where to try: Melira Honey – Ripidou 50, Athens
🍯 Local tip: Try the thyme honey—it’s packed with health benefits!

In ancient Greece, honey was known as "ambrosia"—the food of the gods. It’s still a staple today, used in desserts, yogurt, teas, and even some meat dishes. Thyme honey, in particular, is prized for its antibacterial properties and rich, aromatic taste.

For a variety of premium, locally-produced honeys, visit Melira, a family-run shop that also makes beeswax-based skincare products. It’s the perfect place to pick up a sweet souvenir.

Gyros: The King of Greek Street Food

📍 Where to eat: Tylixto Greek Wrap – Aiolou 19, Athens
🌯 Local tip: Order the double portion if you’re really hungry!

If you try just one street food in Athens, make it a gyros. Think of it as Greece’s answer to the kebab—but don’t say that too loudly to the locals! Juicy, slow-roasted meat (usually pork or chicken), shaved onto a warm pita and loaded with fresh veggies, tzatziki, and fries, it’s a delicious and budget-friendly meal.

For one of the best gyros in Athens, head to Tylixto Greek Wrap in the city center. They offer spicy options, vegetarian versions, and extra-large portions—perfect if you’re sightseeing all day.

Souvlaki: The Perfect Grab-and-Go Snack

📍 Where to eat: Lórda – Spirou Trikoupi 3, Exarchia
🔥 Local tip: Pair it with an ice-cold Alpha, Fix, or Mythos beer

If gyros is the king of Greek street food, souvlaki is its delicious cousin. These grilled meat skewers, usually pork or chicken, are charred over hot coals and served with pita, fried potatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.

For an authentic local experience, grab a souvlaki from Lórda in Exarchia. It’s a no-frills, budget-friendly spot where you’ll get big portions, great flavors, and unbeatable prices.

Greek Olives: The True Taste of Athens

📍 Where to buy: Olive Market – Aristogitonos 15, Athens
🫒 Local tip: Try before you buy—some varieties are spicier than you’d expect!

It doesn’t get more Greek than olives. You’ll see olive trees everywhere in Athens, but don’t be tempted to pluck them—they need to be cured before they’re edible!

For the widest selection, visit Olive Market, where you can sample different varieties before choosing your favorite. From mild green olives to bold, tangy Kalamata olives, there’s something for every palate. Just watch out for the spicy ones—they pack a serious punch!

Spanakopita: The Ultimate Greek Pastry

📍 Where to eat: En Athinas – Athinas 41, Athens
🥧 Local tip: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack

A Greek bakery classic, spanakopita is a crispy, flaky filo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese. Though many countries claim to have invented it, the Greek version is hands-down the best (biased, but true!).

For one of the tastiest spanakopitas in Athens, stop by En Athinas—a small, street-side bakery with a few standing tables. Grab a coffee, enjoy your warm, buttery spanakopita, and don’t worry about the pastry crumbs—the pigeons will clean up after you!

Athens Central Market: A Foodie’s Paradise

📍 Where to shop: Varvakios Central Municipal Market – Νο 68 Βαρβακειος Αγορα, Athens
🎒 Local tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest ingredients

If you’re staying in Athens for a while and want to cook like a local, the Varvakios Central Market is a must-visit. This lively, traditional market is filled with fresh fish, meat, local cheeses, seasonal fruits, and fragrant spices.

One tip: Athenians love seasonal eating, so prices fluctuate depending on what’s in season. When in doubt, ask a vendor what’s fresh that day—they’ll be happy to help.

Bonus Tip: Take a Food Tour in Athens!

The best way to truly understand Greek cuisine? Eat your way through the city with a local food tour! Join Food Around Athens tour and let our local foodie guide introduce you to hidden gems, explain Greek food traditions, and ensure you taste the best of Athenian gastronomy.

Final Thoughts: Eat Like a Local in Athens

In our opinion Athens is a city best explored through its food. Try street food favorites like gyros and souvlaki and traditional pastries, fresh seafood, and locally-produced olive oil, and trust us every meal tells a delicious story. So wander the markets, try everything, and enjoy the flavors of Athens like a true local!