Where to eat and drink in Syntagma: Top spots in the heart of Athens
Syntagma is not just a meeting point for those who want to gather in the center of Athens. Just steps away from the metro, the options for food, dessert and drinks are incredibly interesting and, above all, high quality.
There was a time when we were used to setting up meetings at the most central spot in the city—outside the metro, under the square, in front of Parliament, next to the tram. The truth is, however, that we rarely planned our outings around that area.
In recent years, this has completely changed: a very lively gastronomic scene has emerged around Athens’ most central square.
So we’re rounding up all the places for food or drinks that are truly worth it—and that might just become your next go-to when you find yourself back in the center of Athens. Asian cuisine, Italian spots, new entries, and bars that welcome you regardless of the weather.
Greek and international cuisine
The spot that has just arrived in Glyfada too is the kind of street food you always wanted to eat—but seated and in a great atmosphere. The entrance, lined with countless vinyl shelves (also available for purchase), welcomes you into a moody, atmospheric space. Ekiben (Skoufou 15) serves the now-legendary Birdman cheeseburger, impressive chicken or pork sando, ramen and excellent cocktails. Ideal for a relaxed after-work outing. Just steps away, Ami (Vouli & Apollonos), the Italian bistro that has become a go-to meeting point for aperitivo in the city center, now features a new menu by Chef Dimos Samourakis. Highlights include the Bruschetta Tartare with beef fillet and lardo di Colonnata, fregola with mussels and stone bass fillet, and pizza with gorgonzola cream, fig and arugula.
Yphes (Ktena 3) is a cozy restaurant that has already completed a year and wins you over with its casual luxury philosophy. You’ll go for some of the best tartare and ceviche in Athens, enjoy inventive cocktails (the old fashioned comes with a side of white chocolate in a small glass), and finish with a sparkling pistachio tiramisu. In a similar spirit is Anthes (Skoufou 3), another new addition on Skoufou Street, a small gem with excellent gastronomic offerings. Spread across three different levels, this bar-restaurant serves fish and chips with fried sea bream and chips, outstanding tartare, and a shrimp giouvetsi that will bring you back.
On Apollonos Street, you’ll find Indian, Chinese, and authentic Japanese ramen at So so so! (Apollonos 1)—the soup that has captured our attention in recent years, not only because it “warms the soul,” but because it’s filling. Noodles with pork, beef or chicken, egg and various toppings, combined with a rich broth, make for the perfect dinner on cold days. If sushi is what you’re after, you have two options. Koi (Nikis 15), one of the first places in Athens to introduce us to sushi back in 2013, has now grown into a chain across the city and remains a reliable destination for combos to try different rolls and nigiri with friends. Sushimou (Skoufou 6) is perhaps the ultimate must-visit, mainly due to its unique concept: only 12 seats, three time slots, and chef Antonis Drakoularakos always present, preparing sushi, nigiri and sashimi right in front of you.
Speaking of standout chefs, Ovio (Apollonos 4), the beloved Italian restaurant by Panos Ioannidis, is one of the hottest spots for this cuisine. Arancini, risotto in three variations, gnocchi, pasta dishes (with the bianco-nero al Savoro standing out) and wood-fired pizzas that scream Italy. Don’t leave without trying the tiramisu. If you love arancini and focaccia instead of regular sandwich bread, you’ve found your place. Francesco Granata, co-owner of Napul’e in Vari, opened its more street food–focused sibling in the city center, Focacceria Napul’e (Petraki 30), baking sandwiches in Neapolitan style. Most ingredients come from Italy, while the focaccia is his own recipe. Arancini are available in four versions (try the pistacchioso with pistachio), and you can also grab a coffee.
For committed meat lovers, Spit Jack on Skoufou 10 has built its reputation as a rotisserie with a clear identity and well-earned confidence. It has been there since 2018 and is one of the best options for meat in Athens. Its philosophy is simple: everything starts from the spit. Free-range chicken, porchetta, Black Angus and juicy roast duck take center stage, alongside strong sides like mac ’n’ cheese and sweet potato mash. All of this in a romantic brasserie atmosphere. For a more street food option, Talking Breads from Exarchia has also opened in Syntagma, at Apollonos 3-5, for those who can spot generous sandwiches from afar—pork, chicken or halloumi. However, the stars of Talking Breads are its burgers. Passing by, you’ll notice that no customer leaves without one in hand—and rightly so. Brioche buns, patties in various versions, and often a limited edition. At the moment, there’s panettone fried chicken. Yes, with a panettone bun.
On Nikis Street, just steps from Syntagma and Mitropoleos Street, Winners (Nikis 27) is vegan but wins over even those who don’t follow that lifestyle. With a modern dining aesthetic and emphasis on organic, handmade preparations, it offers an experience that lacks nothing in flavor. The L.A. Salad with smoked tofu and plant-based bacon is among the most popular choices, but the handmade Asian fusion noodles are the absolute highlight of the menu. Pair them with a cocktail and you’ll understand why Winners remains one of our all-time favorites.
Desserts and bakeries
The profiterole that came down from Thessaloniki (you’ll also find it in Glyfada) instantly became the talk of the town—and for good reason. You can order it, take it away or sit at the tables on Diomeias Street at number 2, right where you turn to escape the busy Ermou Street. You’re at Choureal, where you build your own profiterole by choosing a base of classic, chocolate or cream-filled choux, then selecting your chocolate and topping it with cookies, fruit, nuts, even spoon sweets. Surreal indeed.
Artisanal and micro bakeries are one of the biggest food trends of the season, and some are definitely worth trying. Like Neropistolo (Vouli 35), a truly great bakery offering flavors and aromas from our childhood. Croissants, spinach pie, small brioche, banana bread, as well as Basque cheesecake, coffee bun with white chocolate and coffee, and various fluffy baked goods that will definitely brighten your day.
On the other hand, the name 72H Artisanal Bakery refers to the 72 hours the sourdough rests before baking. Those who work, live, or pass through the city center in the morning will find it hard to resist the display window at Mitropoleos 27, which resembles a Parisian bakery. Cinnamon rolls, cookies, babka and croissants for your pre-work coffee. If you have a bit more time, the tables invite you to stay for sandwiches, salads and pizzas.
Where to go for drinks
One of Athens’ now classic cocktail bars—and among the world’s top 50 bars for 2025—is Baba Au Rum on Klitiou 6. A rich cocktail list, its signature carousel bar, and lively crowds that fill the small street as soon as night falls. Across the street, you’ll find its sibling, In Love Again, which creates desserts inspired by Baba Au Rum’s cocktails. Naturally, you’ll also find rum babas—in two versions: classic with cream and one with caramel.
Wine lovers have long found their spot at Heteroklito, the cozy Syntagma bar on Fokionos 2, with countless wine options. With outdoor tables, an indoor bar and a loft for more romantic moods, you’ll choose your wine to pair with platters of Greek or French cheeses, cold cuts, dakos and the essential small bites that accompany a good glass.
If you find yourself on the picturesque Ipitou pedestrian street, you’ll discover laid-back bars where you can have a drink after work, go on a first date or even party when the moment calls for it. Blue Bird at Ipitou 4 was the first to open and remains a favorite for its music, frequent DJ sets, décor and quality drinks.
Moving on to the bars of the center, small but perfect for those looking for an authentic old-school vibe. Barreldier (Vouli 7) may not fit many inside, but extends outdoors into Bolani Arcade. With very distinctive cocktail options and a team that suggests drinks based on your preferences, it offers the ideal atmosphere for relaxed evenings with friends. Right next door is 7 Jokers, a timeless bar known mainly for its aesthetic and atmosphere. A corridor leads to a unique retro space, surrounded by groups of all ages talking, flirting, clinking glasses. Beers, cocktails, popcorn as a snack, and coffee for the afternoon crowd.
Finally, there’s The Bar in front of the Bar on Petraki 1, which looks like a fixed street stand serving drinks and gathering people along the pedestrian street, often turning it into an impromptu party spot. Perfect for flirting and flavorful drinks that will keep you coming back.