“The rich scent of my favorite caffeinated beverage sends trickles of pleasure across my skin as I step inside. Is there anything better than coffee? Chocolate maybe and sex ranks very close I suppose.” – A.R. Miller
If you want to try Greek coffee the traditional way, brewed on sand, then we’ve got a place for you! (Keep reading.)
Drinking coffee in Greece is more than just drinking coffee — it is a daily ritual. According to a 2011 research, Greece is ranked 15th among all the countries of the world, consuming annually some 5.5 kilograms of coffee per capita. That’s a lot of coffee for such a small country!
If you are a coffee chain follower, then you’ll be happy to know that Athens has a few Starbucks around the city (the one we prefer is at the heart of the city, near Monastiraki). But of course, if you want something a bit more local and authentic, then check out one of these places for a memorable cup of Joe in the city of Athens.
If you want a more exotic location and a slice of greenery in the heart of the city, then visit the “secret garden” at Six Dogs Cafe. This is an all-day/all-night cultural entertainment center in the Historic Triangle of Athens. Ever since it opened in 2009, it has been a favorite meeting point for locals. It is open daily from 10 am until late at night, with free wifi and, apart from coffee, they serve homemade seasonal drinks, cocktails, and all sorts of delicacies, with friendly prices.
Address: Avramiotou 6-8, Athina 105 51
If you want to combine your coffee with a million-dollar view, then visit one of Athens’ many rooftop bars. One of our favourites is Couleur Locale, located in a little laneway (and hard to discover as the entrance is in an arcade) near Monastiraki Square. To find it, enter the arcade gallery with antiques and take the elevator to… heaven. The view of the Parthenon and the Observatory, especially at dusk, is to die for! If you want to accompany your coffee with something more than water, then be sure to order their salty fritters breaded with goat cheese, semolina, and honey.
Address: Normanou 3, Athina 105 55
Almost next door you will find another unique hidden gem: Taf Art Space & Coffee, an amazing café/bar/art gallery. It features a mix of run-down and minimal decor, with an open-air atrium as the main “stage” surrounded by two floors of decrepit rooms as galleries. You’ll get to listen to jazz, blues, and lounge music while enjoying some of the best coffee blends in town. Note that it’s hidden behind a secret old door, so it might take some hunting. But once you walk in, you’ll discover a whole different world.
Address: Normanou 5, Athina 105 55
For something with more Greek color, walk to one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods (and a must-see place while in the city), Plaka. The area of Plaka is situated right under the Acropolis hill and is similar to Quartier Latin in Paris. It is an architectural gem, with many heritage-listed buildings and the only area in Athens where you can see the city as it was 100 years ago. Apart from the picturesque alleys, you can find places with good food, coffee, museums, and galleries. I love sipping my coffee at Yiasemi and watching the people socializing around me.
Address: Mnisikleous 23, Athina 105 55
Another one located in the charming neighborhood of Plaka in Athens, Plakaki Cafe offers a cozy haven for those looking to unwind in a picturesque setting. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service, the cafe serves a delightful selection of beverages, from expertly brewed coffees to refreshing teas. The menu features an array of delicious pastries, sandwiches, and light bites, making it a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely morning or catching up with friends, Plakaki Cafe provides a perfect escape in the heart of Athens.
Address: Pl. Filomousou Eterias 2, Athina 105 58
Located in the bustling heart of Athens, If Coffee & Resto is a modern cafe that blends contemporary style with a welcoming atmosphere. This popular spot is renowned for its excellent coffee, creative cocktails, and an array of delectable dishes. The menu offers a variety of options, from hearty breakfasts and fresh salads to savory mains and indulgent desserts. With its chic interior and friendly service, If Coffee & Resto is an ideal place to relax, socialize, or enjoy a delicious meal.
Address: Pl. Tsokri 1, Athina 117 42
For many coffee enthusiasts, this modest spot is considered the smallest, most affordable, and finest espresso bar in Athens. Operated by three cheerful friends, they spend their day behind a polished coffee machine, tirelessly grinding, brewing, and serving rich double-shot espressos in large cups, enhancing the intense flavor. The quality and prices are outstanding. Standing outside in the Athenian arcade, you’ll find yourself alongside lawyers, jewelers, and politicians who frequent this place for their coffee fix. Despite its popularity, the exceptional caffeine hit makes the wait worthwhile.
Address: Voulis 7, Athina 105 62
Last but not least, don’t leave Athens without having a coffee at Mokka Specialty Coffee, one of the oldest coffee shops in Athens (it started serving its divine blends in 1922). The place has been around for almost 100 years, and continues to offer some of the city’s best varieties of coffee blends — and that’s not just my own personal opinion! The shop has won many awards, including one for its Greek blend, used for Mokka’s traditional Greek coffee — once you have ordered, walk inside the shop to see how it’s brewed: the old-fashioned way, in sand. (And to make the experience totally Greek, order a spoon sweet to accompany it!)
Address: Athinas 44, Athina 105 51
