When you think of Greek food, the gyro is likely one of the first things that comes to mind. This beloved street food, with its tasty seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki wrapped in a warm pita, is undeniably delicious and an Athens staple. However, the culinary scene in the Greek capital is incredibly diverse and offers far more than just this iconic dish. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to innovative twists on classic flavours, Athens is a vibrant food destination that reflects the rich history, culture, and creativity of its people. Here’s a look at some of the culinary delights in Athens, beyond the humble gyro.
1. Meze
In Athens, dining is often a social experience, and nothing embodies this more than meze, a collection of small dishes meant to be shared. These dishes, much like Spanish tapas, are a celebration of Greek flavours and ingredients.
A typical meze spread might include:
- Tzatziki: A refreshing dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill.
- Melitzanosalata: A smoky, creamy eggplant dip.
- Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
- Saganaki: Fried cheese, often made with graviera or kasseri, and sometimes flambéed with a splash of ouzo.
- Octopus: Grilled to perfection, often drizzled with olive oil and lemon.
These dishes are to be enjoyed slowly, accompanied by a glass of ouzo or raki, as a means of fostering conversation and connection. In Athens, you can find meze at local tavernas, where the atmosphere is as much a part of the experience as the food.
2. Moussaka
Moussaka is one of Greece’s most famous dishes, and it’s a must-try when in Athens. This hearty casserole is made with layers of sautéed eggplant, ground meat (typically lamb or beef), and a rich béchamel sauce, all baked to golden perfection. The dish is often compared to Italian lasagna, but its distinct flavours—enhanced by cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice—make it uniquely Greek.
In Athens, moussaka is a staple of home cooking and is served in many traditional restaurants, each with its own variation. Some may add potatoes or zucchini, while others might use different cheeses in the béchamel. No matter the variation, moussaka is a comforting dish that showcases the depth and warmth of Greek cuisine.
3. Souvlaki
While gyro may steal the spotlight, souvlaki is another beloved street food that deserves attention. Souvlaki consists of small pieces of marinated meat (often pork, chicken or lamb) grilled on skewers and served with pita bread, onions, tomatoes and tzatziki.
Unlike the gyro, which is made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, souvlaki is grilled, giving it a smoky flavour and tender texture. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that can be found at countless souvlakeries around Athens, each with its own unique take on the classic.
For a more traditional experience, look out for kalamaki, a type of souvlaki where the meat is left on the skewer and eaten directly off it. This dish is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of oregano.
4. Fasolada
Often referred to as the national dish of Greece, fasolada is a simple, yet nourishing, white bean soup made with olive oil, tomatoes and vegetables like carrots celery, and onions. It’s seasoned with herbs such as oregano and bay leaves, creating a comforting and tasty dish.
Fasolada is traditionally a peasant dish, reflecting the resourcefulness and simplicity of Greek cooking. In Athens, it’s often enjoyed during the colder months, served with a side of crusty bread and olives. It’s a perfect example of how Greek cuisine transforms humble ingredients into something deeply satisfying and memorable.
5. Spanakopita & Tiropita
Greek cuisine is known for its delicious savoury pies, and two of the most popular are spanakopita and tiropita. Spanakopita is made with layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs, while tiropita is a cheese pie typically made with a mixture of feta and other cheeses.
These pies are often enjoyed as a snack or light meal and can be found in bakeries and cafes throughout Athens.
6. Loukoumades
No exploration of Athens’ food scene would be complete without something sweet, and loukoumades are the perfect way to round off a meal here. These small, deep-fried dough balls are similar to doughnuts but lighter and crispier. They are traditionally drizzled with honey, sprinkled with cinnamon, and sometimes topped with chopped nuts.
Loukoumades have a long history in Greek cuisine and are often served during festivals and special occasions. In Athens, they are a popular street food, and there are many places where you can watch them being made fresh to order. Enjoy them hot, and you’ll experience a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
While the gyro is a delicious introduction to Greek cuisine, the rich and diverse culinary offerings in Athens go way beyond this humble street food. From hearty dishes like moussaka to the vibrant flavors of meze and the simple comfort of fasolada, Athens is a city where food is deeply intertwined with culture, tradition, and community. So, the next time you’re in Athens, take the opportunity to explore beyond the gyro and discover the full spectrum of what this incredible city has to offer.
