Exploring the bustling heart of Athens? Looking for the best eating spots around Syntagma Square? Apart from being a historic landmark, Syntagma Square is also a fantastic spot to indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, as long as you know where to go. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the culinary offerings around this iconic area promise a taste of both traditional and contemporary Greek cuisine. Here are 5 top spots to explore while you’re there:
Ergon House– A Greek culinary journey + Brunch
Ergon House in Athens offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Greek flavors with a modern twist. Located in the heart of the city, the restaurant has a vibrant and stylish ambiance with high ceilings and an inviting atrium, which makes the space airy and welcoming. The contemporary decor and the 200-year-old olive tree create an inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The menu features high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Greek cuisine with dishes like succulent grilled meats, fresh seafood, and delectable mezze and sourdough bread baked in-house. Ergon House also offers an exceptional continental brunch with Greek finishing touches. All the products are carefully selected, as Ergon House combines its restaurant with a well-stocked grocery store with everything you can think of, from butchers to fishmongers to deli and greengrocers, all under one roof. Ergon House truly encapsulates the essence of Greek dining, offering an unforgettable culinary journey in Athens with its innovative approach to traditional recipes, impeccable food quality, and warm hospitality.
Address: 23 Mitropoleos, Athens, Greece
Website: https://house.ergonfoods.com/agora/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ergonhouse/
Tel: +30 210 010 9090
Map Link: Google Maps
Price/ person: €25-€50
Reviews: Tripadvisor Ergon House
To Triantafyllo tis Nostimias – Taste of authentic Greek Taverna
If you are looking for an authentic Greek fish taverna in the center of Athens with good food and reasonable prices, look no further than Triantafyllo tis Nostimias, a renowned fish tavern with 29 years of operation. Situated near Syntagma Square in Athens, in a “stoa”—an arcade—on Lekka St between Karageorgi Servias and Kolokotroni St, this delightful taverna has an inviting atmosphere and superb Greek cuisine.
The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with stone wall decor that reflects traditional Greek aesthetics. The menu celebrates simple, authentic Greek flavors, featuring top-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Must-try items include marinated anchovies, juicy red mullet, special grilled sardines, tender squid, crispy whitebait, steamed mussels, and shrimp spaghetti, just to name a few. Greek salads, boiled greens, and other typical Greek meze appetizers are also on the menu. All are paired with fine wine, beer, and Greek spirits such as ouzo and tsipouro.
Perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal, the taverna offers delicious food, generous portions, and reasonable prices. Triantafyllo tis Nostimias is a favorite with locals and a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal in the heart of Athens.
Address: Lekka 22, Athens, Greece
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ToTriantafyllotisNostimias/
Tel: +30 210 322 7298
Map Link: Google Maps
Price/person: €20-€35
Reviews: Tripadvisor Triantafyllo tis Nostimias
Tzitzikas kai Mermigas –Greek tradition meets modern gastronomy
Tzitzikas and Mermigas in Syntagma Square is a beloved gem in the heart of Athens, known for its warm ambiance and comforting Greek creative cuisine. The name is straight out of Aesop’s fable The Ant & The Grasshopper – or the cicada (tzitzikas) in the Greek version of the story. This modern taverna’s cozy and rustic decor and friendly service create an inviting, homey atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Greek dishes with a contemporary twist, Tzitzikas & Mermigas is particularly praised for its signature dishes. The menu blends modern gastronomy with Greek tradition, featuring PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) products and seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include handmade cheese pies, the Tzitzikas Salad, pork chops with orange and honey sauce, mastiha-infused chicken on a kataifi pastry nest, goat with tsipouro and baby potatoes, meatballs with fresh mint, and many more appetizers and mains. The quality of the ingredients is evident in every bite, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors and culinary excellence. Its delicious food, generous portions, and reasonable prices, make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city center. With 20 years of experience and 4 locations across Attika, it is safe to say that this taverna has withstood the test of time.
Address: 12-14 Mitropoleos, Syntagma Square, Athens, Greece
Website: https://www.tzitzikasmermigas.gr/en/syntagma/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tzitzikasmermigkas/
Tel: +30 210 324 7607
Map Link: Google Maps
Price/person: €20-€35
Reviews: Tripavisor- Tzitzikas & Mermigas
Grande Dame Athenian Tavern – Retrospective modern cuisine
Grande Dame Athens, located in the vibrant city center near Syntagma Square, offers an exquisite dining experience with its elegant ambiance and refined Greek cuisine. The restaurant features chic and sophisticated decor, and it is housed in a renovated neoclassical building, creating a warm and luxurious atmosphere perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. Chef Yiannis Solakis interprets Greek cuisine by revisiting classic dishes from old urban restaurants and home kitchens while incorporating techniques and ingredients from various traditions. He describes this as a “modern Greek cuisine that looks back.” This concept is evident in his dishes like the velvet taramosalata (egg row dip) with ouzo and almond fillets, and the aromatic hummus with crunchy chickpeas and pomegranate. His unique Athenian dish, featuring lettuce, chopped potato, peas, carrot, and light mayonnaise, further exemplifies this approach. Other notable dishes include Beluga lentil salad with quinoa, lightly seared bonito, and smoked octopus with eggplant salad and tomato marmalade. The Grande Dame menu also features well-cooked meats and traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. The desserts, such as the baklava with yogurt ice cream, add a sweet finish to the meal. The service is impeccable, with a friendly and professional staff dedicated to making your meal unforgettable.
The Grande Dame Athens has outstanding food, an elegant setting, and exceptional service, making it a top choice for those seeking a memorable culinary experience in the heart of Athens.
Address: Nikis 46, Athens 105 58
Website: https://grandedame.gr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grande.dame.atheniantavern/
Tel: +30 693 606 0481
Map Link: Google Maps
Price/person: €30-€50
Reviews: Tripadvisor Grande Dame
Ella Urban Greek Cuisine
Ella on Mitropoleos Street, is located in the heart of Athens, blends tradition with modernity. The restaurant has a stylish and cozy ambiance, with contemporary decor and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. It features a deli with Greek products and a menu that highlights authentic flavors. The handmade cheese pie, spicy cheese spread, and smoked eggplant salad are must-tries. Other standout dishes include the fava and the dolmadakia (stuffed grapevine leaves), classic saganaki, and giaourtlou kebab. To get a taste of Greek slow food make sure to select an option from that section of the menu such as braised veal or lamb giouvetsi and you will not be disappointed. The ekmek with kaimaki ice cream and poached peaches with pistachio ice cream are delightful desserts. The service is known for being warm and attentive.
Address: Mitropoleos 26, Athens
Website: https://www.ellarestaurant.gr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ella.athens/
Tel: +30 210 325 2110
Map Link: Google Maps
Price/ person: €25-€40
Reviews: Tripadvisor Ella Urban Greek Cuisine
Conclusion
Eating Greek around Syntagma Square offer many great options. From modern twists on Greek classics at Ergon House and Ella to the authentic fish dishes at Triantafyllo tis Nostimias, there’s something for everyone. Tzitzikas kai Mermigas and Grande Dame add to the culinary diversity with their unique approaches to Greek cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, explore these spots ensure a memorable dining experience in the heart of Athens.
