Top 10 Foods to Try When in Athens (And Where to Find Them!)

Nadine Braehmer • May 8, 2025

Athens isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a paradise for food lovers too. With ancient traditions, bold flavors, and fresh Mediterranean ingredients, the Greek capital serves up some of the most delicious dishes in Europe. If you're wondering what to eat in Athens, you're in the right place.



Here’s a list of the top 10 foods you absolutely must try in Athens—and if you want to taste them all in one fun and flavorful afternoon, join our local food tour in Athens and eat like a true Athenian.

1. Souvlaki

No trip to Athens is complete without a juicy skewer of grilled meat wrapped in fluffy pita with tomato, onions, and tzatziki. It's Greek street food at its finest.

Where to try it? At local souvlaki joints hidden away from the tourist traps—we'll take you there on our tour.


2. Moussaka

Think of it as the Greek version of lasagna—layers of eggplant, minced meat, béchamel sauce, and spices baked to perfection.

Tip: It’s best when homemade, and our food tour includes a stop at a tavern where grandma still does the cooking.


3. Spanakopita

This flaky spinach pie with feta cheese and herbs is the perfect breakfast or midday snack.

Why it’s special: It’s a staple of every Greek home and bakery—and yes, you’ll get to taste a freshly baked one with us.


4. Loukoumades

These bite-sized honey-soaked doughnuts are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dangerously addictive.

Local secret: We’ll take you to a family-run shop making loukoumades the old-fashioned way for over 100 years.


5. Tzatziki

Cool, garlicky, and creamy, this yogurt-based dip is the perfect partner for grilled meats and pita.

On our tour: You’ll sample it fresh with warm pita and learn how to tell the difference between touristy and real tzatziki.


6. Dolmades

These vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs are a traditional appetizer you’ll find all over Greece.

Why try them on tour? Because every Greek region has its own twist—ours comes with stories and homemade wine.


7. Greek Salad

Crisp cucumber, ripe tomatoes, onion, olives, and a slab of feta cheese—no lettuce here! A refreshing must-try dish.

Bonus: We’ll show you the proper (local) way to eat it—yes, there's a trick.


8. Fava

Not to be confused with fava beans, this creamy yellow split pea purée from Santorini is earthy and comforting.

Where to taste it: At a cozy Athenian meze spot we love sharing with guests.


9. Koulouri

A simple sesame-crusted bread ring you’ll see everywhere in the morning. It’s Athens’ answer to the bagel.

Why we love it: It’s the go-to breakfast for locals on the move—and a crunchy, satisfying start to any day.


10. Ouzo (or Tsipouro)

You can’t talk about Greek food without mentioning local spirits. Ouzo is an anise-flavored aperitif that pairs beautifully with salty meze.

On the tour: You’ll toast like a local and learn how Greeks enjoy food slowly—with company, conversation, and just the right drink.


Taste It All with Us!

The best way to discover Athens is through its food—and the best way to discover its food is with a local. At Foodprint Tours in Athens, we take you on a journey through hidden streets, family-run eateries, and centuries-old recipes.

You’ll eat like an Athenian, hear the stories behind every dish, and skip the tourist traps for authentic bites you won’t forget.


🎟️ Book your Athens food tour now and come hungry—we’ll take care of the rest.

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