Athens Food Tour: Street Eats and Local Tavern Favorites

We’ll begin our food adventure in the heart of historic Athens — Monastiraki Square. Surrounded by ancient ruins, colorful markets, and buzzing with life, this iconic square perfectly blends the old and new. From here, you'll catch views of the Acropolis, see the 18th-century Tzistarakis Mosque, and feel the pulse of the city as locals and travelers pass through. It’s the perfect place to kick off our culinary journey through Athens!

Step inside a classic, cozy Athens bar that feels like a step back in time. This charming spot, beloved by locals, serves one of Greece’s most iconic drinks — ouzo, the anise-flavored spirit that’s as much a part of Greek culture as its food. Here, you’ll enjoy a small glass of ouzo (or a non-alcoholic alternative) served traditionally, while learning about the rituals and stories behind this beloved aperitif. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with vintage décor that captures the spirit of old Athens. Your guide will share fascinating insights about how Greeks enjoy ouzo socially — from casual afternoons to lively evenings — and why it’s more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of friendship and hospitality. This stop sets the perfect tone for our culinary journey, giving you a sip of authentic Athenian life and tradition before we dive into the city’s vibrant food scene.

Try the beloved koulouri, a sesame-crusted bread ring that's a staple of Athenian mornings, paired with a warm and flaky spanakopita (spinach pie). A delicious introduction to Greece’s everyday street bites.

At the heart of Athens, you’ll discover the vibrant Varvakios Central Market, where locals shop for everything from fresh fish and meats to colorful produce and fragrant herbs. As we walk through the market, you’ll experience the energy and daily rhythms of Athenian life. Just outside the market, we’ll visit Mokka, a beloved local café that has been serving Greek coffee since 1922. Here, you’ll watch coffee brewed the traditional way — in a copper briki over hot sand — creating a rich, thick, and aromatic cup. You’ll enjoy your Greek coffee served with a piece of loukoumi (Greek delight) and learn how to order it like a local — whether you like it strong and sweet or without sugar at all. It’s the perfect pause in our food journey and a moment to experience a cherished Greek ritual.

A legendary spot known for their kebab pita sandwiches, made with juicy grilled meat and wrapped in warm bread. Simple, quick, and oh-so-good!

Next, we’ll head to Zisis, a modern seafood spot that’s become a local favorite for its fun twist on traditional Greek flavors. Known for serving freshly fried seafood in a paper cone, this stop is all about crispy, golden bites packed with flavor. Choose from options like calamari, shrimp, or small fish — lightly battered, perfectly seasoned, and served hot and fresh. It's casual, it's quick, and it's incredibly tasty — a street food-style seafood experience that Athenians love. We’ll grab a cone, find a spot to enjoy it, and chat about Greece’s deep connection to the sea and how seafood plays a key role in the local cuisine. Simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, this stop is always a crowd-pleaser.

We end on a sweet note with loukoumades—crispy golden dough balls drizzled with honey and cinnamon or stuffed with chocolate. The perfect dessert to wrap up our culinary journey!