You’ve arrived in Athens and are ready to eat your way through the city. The options are endless but we can read your mind: you’re in search of some good Greek souvlaki. You’ve probably already tasted it in your home city, but now you want to try the real thing, which we agree is essential while you’re here. On the other hand, if you haven’t heard the word “souvlaki” before, then just know it is a popular Greek fast food/street food, consisting of small pieces of meat (and sometimes vegetables) grilled and served on a skewer or in a pita wrap, and it’s delicious.
Is souvlaki our national dish? Probably, as most travelers on our tours ask us about our favorite souvlakia places in town. Which is why we’ve managed to put together a pretty comprehensive list of where to get the best Gyros and Souvlaki in Athens. To help you feed your souvlaki needs, here are some recommendations for where to taste the best versions in the center of Athens.
Bairaktaris is a very well-known traditional Greek tavern that has been run by the same family since 1879. The popular spot serves delicious grilled meats and probably some of the most famous souvlaki in the city. Located in Monastiraki Square, it’s very easy to find and it won’t let you down. Moreover, the place looks special with its painted wine barrels and photos of the famous Greek personalities who have visited the tavern throughout its long history.
Right next to Bairaktaris Tavern, you’ll find Thanasis. Serving up souvlaki since 1964, this place is always busy, but service is fast. Portions are large, so come hungry, and prices are reasonable for the amount of food you’re getting. Meat is grilled perfectly no matter what you order at Thanasis, but kebabs are the specialty here.
Savvas has a long tradition of serving well-grilled and delicious meat. They have a wide variety of dishes and traditional appetizers to choose from, but of course, you’re here for the souvlaki. Located right next to Monastiraki Square on Ermou street, this is a 24-hour restaurant so you can get your souvlaki fix any time of day or night. Savvas also has a rooftop garden bar with a great view of the Acropolis, making it an amazing choice during the summer months.
Very close to Monastiraki Square is Agias Irinis Square. This charming square is filled with bars and cafes, among which you’ll find Kostas, a no-frills, family-run spot serving some of the best souvlaki in the city. Keep in mind that this isn’t a sit-down restaurant, just a take-away. Sometimes you might find some tables outside, but most of the customers order and then eat outside, sitting anywhere around the square.
In 1965, two friends had the idea to create a stand in the center of Athens that would offer their customers Souvlakia Kalamakia, the original Greek Souvlakia. They even decided to call their shop”THE LEIVADIA” because of the reputation of this particular town for its pork souvlakia/Kalamakia. More than 50 years later they still deliver the most juicy and authentic meat skewers! Hoocut With freshly handmade pita bread,which is made right in front of you Hoocutis a new-style souvlaki place in one of the busiest areas in the city. Their pitta breads come stuffed with premium cuts of diced lamb, chicken, pork, or beef.
Hungry for Athens? Come feed your travel soul on our Taste of Athens tour!
