Athens Street Food: A Lover’s Guide

Athens has a thriving street food culture, centered on a small repertoire of foods prepared fresh and eaten on the go. Understanding what to order, where to order it, and how much it should cost gives you access to one of the most enjoyable — and affordable — aspects of the city.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is the defining street food of Athens — small skewers of grilled pork or chicken, either served on the skewer (kalamaki) or wrapped in pita bread with tomato, onion, and tzatziki (pita souvlaki or gyros). A good pita souvlaki costs €2–3 and constitutes a complete meal. The souvlaki counters on Mitropoleos Street in Monastiraki are among the city’s most celebrated. Kostas on Pentelis Street (Syntagma area) is a beloved institution with a short menu and genuine quality.

Koulouri

The round sesame-covered bread rings sold from street carts and bakeries throughout the city — an Athens morning staple, eaten for breakfast on the go. They cost €0.50 and are best eaten warm from the cart.

Tiropita and spanakopita

Cheese pies (tiropita) and spinach-cheese pies (spanakopita) are sold in bakeries throughout the city, freshly made in the morning and throughout the day. The best are made with layers of handmade filo and a generous filling. A good tiropita costs €2–3 and can serve as breakfast, snack, or lunch.

Loukoumades

Honey donuts — small fried dough balls drizzled with honey, cinnamon, and sesame seeds or walnuts. The traditional preparation is simple and excellent; modern interpretations add chocolate, Nutella, and other toppings. Loukoumades stands operate throughout the city; the most traditional versions are in central areas around Monastiraki.