My Favorite 5 Authentic Restaurants in Greece

Greece has always felt like a food heaven to me. Every time I land in Athens, it’s like my taste buds are coming home. After several trips (and a whole lot of eating!), I’ve learned where to find the kinds of places that not only serve amazing food, but also carry that special feeling; that mix of hospitality, integrity, and joy that makes a meal unforgettable.

I always try to support locally-owned spots, especially ones that value sustainability and do things ethically. It just adds so much more meaning to every bite. So if you ever find yourself wandering the streets of Athens and wondering where to eat, here’s a personal list of restaurants that I truly love, and think you might too.

🌿 1. Soil Restaurant

If I had to choose one word for Soil, it would be sacred. It’s more than just dining—it’s a deeply nourishing, almost poetic experience. The ingredients are pure, seasonal, and mostly harvested from their own family garden. You can taste the care in every bite, and feel the calm it brings to your whole body.

They do a beautiful job with their farm-to-table approach, and everything on the menu feels like a love letter to nature. You can even let the chef surprise you (and you totally should).

📍 Reservations are essential—book here.

🍷 2. Svoura (Koukaki neighborhood)

Svoura has this magical neighborhood feel—the kind of place where locals gather, laughter spills from the tables, and the food speaks for itself. Their Greek dishes come with unexpected twists that always delight me, and their menu changes monthly (so every visit feels new).

A few of my favorite orders: 

– Fava purée with truffle oil 

– Spicy chicken 

– Charred octopus 

– Cinnamon pudding for dessert (trust me!)

It’s perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a laid-back date. It gets cozy and busy, especially outdoors, so booking ahead is a smart move.

✨ 3. Merceri

For those nights when you want to feel a little dressed up, sip a beautiful glass of wine, and be wrapped in warm elegance—Merceri is your place. It’s stylish, intimate, and full of charm.

Their modern Greek dishes come with an international twist that makes each plate feel refined but still full of heart. The shrimp risotto is divine, and the ambiance just makes you want to linger and savor. It’s definitely one of those “treat yourself” spots.

📍 Make a reservation in advance here.

🥙 4. Meat the Greek

This family-run gem near Syntagma is the real deal when it comes to Greek street food. Their souvlaki and gyros are exactly what you want after a long day of wandering Athens. It’s casual, fast, and absolutely delicious.

What makes it even better is the warmth you feel as soon as you walk in. The owner often checks in with diners personally—such a lovely touch that keeps me coming back.

Perfect for a quick, hearty meal that hits the spot.

🍽️ 5. CTC Urban Gastronomy

CTC is where I go when I want a wow night. Their 11-course tasting menu (yes, eleven!) is a food adventure from start to finish. It’s a blind tasting, so you don’t even know what’s coming next—but every dish is a piece of art.

Without giving too much away, I’ll just say this: the sea bass ceviche with kiwi and garlic changed me. Every plate reflects so much creativity, care, and storytelling. It’s playful, elevated, and absolutely unforgettable.

📍 Definitely reserve in advance here.

In the end, what I love most about eating in Athens isn’t just the food—it’s the people, the intention behind every meal, and the feeling that you’ve been welcomed into something real.

If you try any of these places, I hope they nourish you just as much as they did me.

And if exploring these gems in person sounds like your kind of adventure… 

✨ Sunny and Turquoise is headed to Athens and Rhodes Island this fall ✨

We’re inviting women like you to slow down, savor life, and reconnect with joy, with sisterhood, and with yourself.

There’s just one question: Are you ready to say yes to yourself?

Let’s wander. Let’s feast. Let’s glow.

💛 [Join the trip ➝] (I’m ready for the women’s trip in Greece!)