28 Street Foods In Athens Ideas & Where To Find Them

Exploring the best street food in Athens is an adventure for your taste buds, offering a real taste of Greek cuisine at its most authentic. Whether you’re roaming the city’s vibrant street corners in the early morning or looking for a late-night snack, Athens’ on-the-go foods are a culinary delight.

This guide is designed to introduce you to the world of traditional Greek street food, a universe where simplicity meets flavor. From the sizzle of grilling meats to the aroma of freshly baked pastries, Athens serves up an array of choices that cater to every preference, any time of day.

Get ready to explore the streets of Athens through its food – a journey that promises to be as delicious as it is enlightening.

No matter where you are in the world, street food is something you have to try. It’s part of the whole experience, and it’s a way to eat on the go, so you don’t miss any of the top sights while saving a bit of money at the same time.

Of course, each country has its own delicacies, and when visiting Athens, you’ll certainly want to give the street food a try. There is so much to see and do in the Greek capital that you won’t want to waste any time sitting down for a meal; grabbing some street food on the go means you’ll see far more. You just might want to find a bench to sit on for five minutes to save your aching feet!

So, what street food in Athens should you try, where are the best places to go, and how much might it all cost?

The Best Street Food In Athens

You’ll find all manner of different types of street food in Athens, both local and international. However, you should certainly stick to the local stuff, as that’s always going to be tastier and far more special.

Here are some of the best street food choices you should try in Athens.

1. Souvlaki – Gyros

What is the most popular street food in Greece? 100% gyros. 

This is by far the most popular type of street food across the whole of the country, not just in Athens. A thick layer of flatbread is covered in tzatziki (a garlic and yogurt dip) and covered in meat (often pork or chicken). Plenty of fresh salad and delicious tomatoes top the meat before the whole thing is rolled and served for you to relish.

2. Loukoumades

If you’re looking for a sweet treat on the go, this is for you. These are small balls of dough that have been broiled in oil, sprinkled with walnuts and cinnamon, and then served. They’re also often available with Nutella, but they’re pretty sweet on their own.

3. Koulouri

Often served at breakfast but available all day long, koulouri is a round bread ring topped with sesame seeds. The outside is crispy, but the inside is soft and fluffy. You can eat it as it is, or you can eat it with cheese or even chocolate spread.

4. Bougatsa

Greek pies are often devoured at breakfast, but grab this whenever you’re hungry. Bougatsa is a pie made of phyllo and filled with custard for a sweet option and either cheese or minced meat for a savory option.

5. Tiropita

Another popular pie in Greece, Tiropita, is filled with cheese and the outside is phyllo pastry and olive oil topping. You can either eat tiropita at breakfast or as a snack grabbed throughout the day.

6. Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a traditional dish made with phyllo dough filled with spinach and feta cheese. The pastry is crunchy and moist at the same time. You can find spanakopita on street food carts or in bakeries.

It’s usually served as a snack or appetizer, but we say go ahead and enjoy it as a meal. The best part about spanakopita is that it’s portable, so you can appreciate it on the go.

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Athens, be sure to try this iconic street food. You won’t be disappointed!

7. Falafel

While not exclusively Greek, you’ll find falafel sold as street food all over Athens. These little fried balls of goodness are usually made with chickpeas or fava beans, and they’re served up with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you like them spicy or sweet, there’s a sauce for everyone.

You can find them served up in all kinds of ways; my favorite is in a roll with salad; this way, they make a great meal on the go. So next time you’re in Athens, be sure to try some falafel!

8. Kontosouvli

A hearty spit-roasted meat dish, usually pork, seasoned with Greek herbs. It’s a good on-the-go option as it’s often served in pita bread, making it easy to eat while walking.

9. Kreatopit

A savory pie filled with meat, typically spiced minced beef or lamb, wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry. Its pie form makes it a convenient and filling snack for busy explorers.

10. Tiropsomo

A bread filled with delicious Greek cheese. It’s a simple, satisfying snack that’s easy to carry and eat while sightseeing.

11. Peinirli

Similar to a pizza boat, filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Its boat-like shape makes it a practical and tasty choice for eating on the move.

12. Dolmades

Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs, sometimes with added meat. They are small, making them perfect for a quick, mess-free snack.

13. Revithokeftedes

Chickpea fritters, often seasoned with herbs. These are a great vegetarian option, easy to eat by hand while exploring.

14. Koulouri Thessalonikis

A sesame seed-encrusted bread ring. Its ring shape is ideal for a portable snack, often enjoyed in the mornings.

15. Kolokithokeftedes

Zucchini fritters, a tasty vegetarian option that’s often served as a bite-sized snack, great for on-the-go eating.

16. Koupes

A cylindrical croquette filled with minced meat or other fillings, easy to eat with one hand while walking.

17. Psaráki sto Chonáki

Small, fried fish, typically eaten whole. They’re a great finger food, ideal for a quick seafood fix.

18. Biftekia

Greek-style grilled meat patties often served in a bread roll or on a plate with pita bread and fries. Perfect for eating on the move.

19. Baklava

A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup. While it’s a bit sticky, it’s a delightful sweet treat for those needing a quick sugar boost.

20. Psitá Kástana

Roasted chestnuts are a popular street food, especially in cooler months. They’re easy to carry around and eat as you walk.

21. Dakos

A Cretan dish featuring dried bread topped with tomato, cheese, and olives. It’s a bit like an open sandwich, easy to eat while on a stroll.

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Other Quick Bites To Eat In Athens

22. Fried Calamari

A local favorite, these crispy squid rings are a must-try. They’re often served with a squeeze of lemon, making for a perfect snack as you wander the streets of coastal Athens.

23. Feta me Meli

This is a charming combination of feta cheese wrapped in phyllo pastry, then drizzled with honey and sesame. It strikes a perfect balance between salty and sweet – a true Greek delicacy.

24. Galaktoboureko

For the sweet-toothed, this semolina custard wrapped in phyllo is a real treat. It’s a common find in bakeries and sometimes at street stalls, offering a creamy, indulgent flavor.

25. Patsas

This might be an adventurous choice for some. It’s a tripe soup known for its supposed hangover-curing properties. Patsas is a traditional, hearty option for those wanting to try something uniquely Greek.

26. Octopus

Grilled octopus is a Greek staple. Typically seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and oregano, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that seafood lovers shouldn’t miss.

27. Saganaki

Cheese enthusiasts, rejoice! Saganaki is essentially fried cheese, often served as a quick snack. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, it’s a delightful treat.

28. Amygdalota

These are almond cookies that are not only delicious but also gluten-free. They have a unique, chewy texture and are a popular pick-me-up at various bakeries and some street food stalls.

How Much Does Athens Street Food Cost

It really depends on what you have as to how much it’s going to cost you, but overall, you can grab street food for well under 10 Euros for two people. If you opt for any of the Greek pies, you’re looking at around 2 Euros for one slice. Souvlaki is usually around 3.5 Euros for one, with a bottle of water from a vending machine to go along with it costing around 0.50 Euros.

You can certainly eat very well by sticking to street food, and it won’t cost you anywhere near what it would if you went to restaurants for every single meal. By tucking into street food during the day, you can probably feel less guilty about splurging on a fancy meal in the evening.

Best Spots For Street Food In Athens

You’ll find street food literally everywhere, but there are some particular spots that are famous.

• Kostas: not far from Syntagma, you’ll find Kostas, a small street food vendor that has been open since 1950. This vendor is famous for souvlaki, and it’s often hailed as one of the best
• Ariston: another vendor close to Syntagma Square, Ariston is one of the best places for any type of Greek pie, and there is a huge amount on offer – around 120 types! Kourou, a cheese pie, is said to be amazing from here
• To Koulouri Tou Psyri: head to the quiet neighborhood of Psyri, and you’ll find the best koulouri around. This small bakery is famous for the freshest and most delicious bakes, and it’s been open since 1960
• Fallafellas: yes, the name is fun, but it’s also the best place for falafel. Located close to Monastiraki Square, you’ll find a huge menu and plenty of choices. Lines are often long, but it’s worth the wait
• Feyrouz: this spot might be small, but it’s super-famous the world over. Located between Karori and Aiolou, the lady who runs Feyrouz is one of the best for savory street eats, such as small pizzas and flatbreads called lachamtzoun

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Frequently Asked Questions – Athens Food Guide

What is souvlaki and where can I find it?

Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food made with skewered and grilled meat, typically served with warm pita bread and a variety of sauces. You can find souvlaki at many street vendors and food trucks throughout the city center of Athens.

Where can I find delicious street food in Athens?

Athens is known for its vibrant street food scene. Some popular street food spots include Ariston Bakery, Los Loros, Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani, and Poncho Tacos, among others. These places offer a wide range of tasty snacks and traditional dishes.

What are some must-try local delicacies in Athens?

Athens offers a variety of mouth-watering local delicacies. Some must-try dishes include spanakopita (spinach pie), loukoumades (Greek doughnuts), and souvlaki (grilled meat skewers with pita bread). These traditional foods are made with fresh ingredients and are full of flavor.

Where can I find affordable street food in Athens?

If you’re looking for affordable street food in Athens, you’ll find that many street vendors and food trucks offer delicious options at reasonable prices. The streets of Athens, particularly in the city center, are dotted with these vendors offering quick and tasty meals.

What are some popular street food options in Athens?

Athens offers a wide range of street food options. Some popular choices include souvlaki, hot dogs, French fries, ice cream, and traditional pies. These foods come in different shapes and flavors, catering to various tastes.

What are the best street food spots in the city center of Athens?

For the best street food experience in the city center of Athens, you can visit Kolokotroni Street. This area is known for its variety of street vendors offering delicious and affordable meals.

Are there any specific traditional dishes I should try?

Athens offers a wide array of traditional dishes that are worth trying. Some popular choices include moussaka (a layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce), gyro (a pita wrap with roasted meat and vegetables), and Greek salad (made with fresh produce, feta cheese, and olive oil dressing).

In Athens, there’s a street food scene that’s not to be missed; enjoy!