You can’t visit Athens without indulging in its delicious culinary scene. Why not start with one of the country’s best-loved dishes – souvlaki? It’s a mouth-watering combo of grilled meat, fresh salad and crispy potatoes, all tucked up in a warm pita bread and drizzled with tzatziki. If you’re looking for the hottest souvlaki spots, plus a few watering holes to wash it all down with, then read on!

Kostas

Tucked in Agias Irinis Square, locals and tourists alike love Kostas. And what makes his souvlaki stand out from the rest is the signature red spicy sauce. From the souvlaki and meatballs to the sliced tomatoes and piping-hot pita, everything is freshly prepared. Pull up a pew outside and tuck in!

Barley Cargo

Calling all beer lovers! If you like craft beers and ales, then Barley Cargo is an essential visit when in Athens. With a wide range of taps and countless bottles and cans, even the pickiest of beer drinkers are bound to find something to suit here. Expect good vibes, good music and great beer.

Lefteris o Politis

If you’re looking for souvlaki, Istanbul style, you’ve come to the right place. Lefteris o Politis is in the Omnia district and is owned by the third generation of the same family. With beef meatballs in fragrant spices, pitas lightly brushed with oil and fresh salad, your taste buds are in for a real treat.

Beertime

When beer time calls, make your way to the aptly named Beertime in Monastiraki. There’s a great selection of craft beers to be enjoyed and a happy hour where you can make the most of buy one get one free! You might even get a dinky bowl of popcorn served alongside it.

Achilleas

Pork or chicken souvlaki? Gyros to go? The choice is yours at Achilleas, a family-run joint down a quaint alley in the urban district of Neos Kosmos. You won’t find any seating here, so if you’re looking to bag some of his scrumptious souvlaki, you’re best off heading down early or calling ahead to avoid missing out.

TAF (The Art Foundation)

This quirky plot is ideal for an afternoon beer. It’s set in an old courtyard that’s dotted with lanterns and leafy green plants. You’ll often find art exhibitions on too, so it’s not surprising that it’s become a hangout for Greek and international contemporary artists and art lovers.

The Girls

As the lull of late afternoon begins, The Girls’ charcoal is just getting going. After a day of sightseeing, make a beeline here and dig into tempting souvlaki that’s based on an old recipe dating back 50 years. Expect the classic gyros or skewers, pork or chicken, tomatoes, crispy sweet onions and cool yoghurt. Yum!

James Joyce Pub

If you’re looking for home comforts, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll be spoilt for choice by the range on offer, with everything from local Greek beers to Guinness. Live music and sporting events are also regular fixtures.