Petralona: Where to eat, drink and enjoy coffee in courtyards and historic homes
Petralona is one of the areas of Athens that has managed to keep its distinctive character while also embracing the contemporary spirit of the city. Its venues, from morning cafés and brunch spots to evening tavernas with meze and home-cooked dishes or bars with great cocktails, all have that something special that makes them stand out.
- 24/09/2025, 16:10
Years ago, when someone said they were going out in Petralona, it was considered a sign of being “in the know.” It was—and still is, to a large extent—one of those neighborhoods that have preserved almost intact their authentic identity.
Today, Petralona may no longer be seen as such an unconventional choice for a night out, but with its urban identity and bohemian soul, it certainly stands apart. Among the apartment blocks standing tightly side by side, you’ll come across single- or two-story houses with tiled roofs and small, charming courtyards, even buildings with neoclassical elements—though this has always been a traditionally working-class area, settled mainly by laborers, craftsmen, and refugees. In fact, the part of the neighborhood lying west of the train tracks used to be called Katsikadika, because many herders would roam the streets with their goats, delivering milk to residents.
There, among neighborhoods whose architecture reflects many different historical phases of the 20th century, you’ll find venues with different philosophies yet perfectly in tune with the area. Traditional ouzeris and tavernas on the one hand, trendy cafés and bars on the other, together create the fascinating gastronomic mosaic of Petralona.
From morning till night in Petralona
Like every lively neighborhood, Petralona has its own all-day spots, serving as destinations from morning until late at night. Kyrios Hou is one of the classic hangouts of the area. In its blue-painted house with the charming backyard, you can enjoy coffee and brunch, as well as your evening drinks.
In the same spirit, Upupa Epops—with its theatrical aesthetic and stunning inner courtyard—is a destination venue known to everyone, whether they frequent the neighborhood or not.
At the balconies of Epi tis Dexamenis, you can sip your coffee while people-watching, and in the evening enjoy drinks with great music, interesting cocktails, and freshly popped popcorn to go with them! The interior space is equally appealing, with vibes that make it an easy favorite hangout.
Paribaba is housed in a renovated single-family home where you’ll find a full brunch menu and cocktails that will have you coming back again and again. The tables on the sidewalk are perfect for a relaxed aperitivo, while the interior features stylish, atmospheric décor. At the back, there’s a courtyard with something of a… Cuban feel.
For drinks
Line Athens may open in the morning, serving coffee and breakfast with divine bread in its impressive industrial space and lush garden, but its reputation as one of the world’s top bars has long surpassed the city’s borders. Just two years ago, it was awarded the title of the world’s best new cocktail bar. Here, wines are crafted from fruit, and cocktails are made with in-house ingredients, all under a zero-waste philosophy.
One of the most consistent spots for drinks in Petralona is Klouvi. For years, it has been the go-to bar for friends, couples, and colleagues during the week, thanks to its flavorful cocktails.
Another classic watering hole, with a welcoming atmosphere and kind service, is Spirtokouto. Clean drinks and great music make it an ideal choice for your nights out.
Petralona: Time to eat
Food deserves a chapter of its own in Petralona. The historic taverna Oikonomou has recently turned a new page with a new owner, yet it has kept the identity and quality that made it famous: excellent home-style cooking. The rabbit stifado and the rooster in wine sauce stand out for their rich flavor.
A meze spot well worth a visit is Radiourgies. With dishes perfect for pairing with wine or tsipouro, like its melt-in-your-mouth liver, it easily becomes a favorite.
Aster may introduce itself as a Cretan meze spot, but here you’ll eat much more than just skioufichta pasta. You’ll taste both modern and traditional small and larger plates, all worth coming back for.
Randevou, on the other hand, has more of a kafeneio vibe, with a strong emphasis on camaraderie. As you might imagine, you’ll eat simple, classic plates such as sausage, eggs with staka, marinated anchovies, and vinegar-braised squid.
Hidden in plain sight, just off Chamosternas Avenue, you’ll find Sembreviva, housed on the ground floor of a refugee residence. With only four tables in its cozy interior but plenty of space outside on the sidewalk (which feels like a pedestrian street), this little spot calls itself an “edematelier.” Its menu always has a surprise or two, and its homemade bread, with the characteristic aroma of herbs baked into the recipe, is truly unique. Be sure to try one of the many homemade liqueurs!
For Italian, head to Giovanni Scaraggi, the chef who became known through MasterChef. At Sole Giaguaro, you’ll enjoy authentic Italian recipes created with modern techniques. The menu includes pasta, meat, and fish.
Last but not least, at Merkouri Square in Ano Petralona, Hanky Panky serves up what might be one of the best smash burgers in Athens. Behind the 90s-style fast-food spot is Grigoris Kikís, the young chef and co-owner of the fine dining restaurant Hervé, as well as Upon in Palaio Faliro (where Hanky Panky has also recently opened).