Athens. Photo: Shutterstock Waiting for a cruise from Piraeus in Athens and want to wander with a full stomach at the Acropolis? Israelis Ran Spuzhnik and Liran Spiegel, who live in Athens, recommend 9 excellent dining spots in the city that Israelis love so much:
NYX
Location: Academias Hotel
In the heart of Athens, on the rooftop of the luxurious Academias Hotel, lies NYX - an elegant Japanese gastro-bar offering a unique culinary experience with breathtaking 360-degree views. The design, blending luxury and a trendy atmosphere, makes NYX one of the most sought-after spots in the city. A beautifully designed indoor space with panoramic windows and a stunning outdoor terrace creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening. Here, you can enjoy a modern Japanese menu with delicious sushi and excellent cocktails.
Retiré
Location: Ergon House Hotel
With stunning views of the Acropolis, the Retiré rooftop bar offers the perfect blend of urban atmosphere and Mediterranean charm. A hidden, stylish corner where you can relax among green trees in comfy chairs. The unique cocktail menu combines Mediterranean flavors with modern creativity, alongside a selection of quality local wines and beers.
Attic Rooftop
Location: Monastiraki Square
At this cocktail bar, which operates all day, you can enjoy coffee and desserts during the day, and cocktails and dinner in the evening, accompanied by DJ tunes starting from 21:00.
Roof Garden
Location: The Foundry Suites
In the heart of Psiri, you’ll find the Roof Garden - a magical rooftop garden with the feel of a traditional Athenian courtyard. The garden is adorned with olive trees, colorful flowers, and tiled floors covered in grass, while vine-covered pergolas add to the picturesque ambiance. Here, you can enjoy a wide range of fresh oven-baked pizzas, quality wines, and refreshing cocktails—all with a lovely view of Athens. The Roof Garden is an ideal place to unwind after a bustling day in the city, providing a unique and relaxing leisure experience.
Makris Athens
Location: Monastiraki Square
A Michelin-starred restaurant with a rooftop view of the Acropolis serving food of a different caliber. Its meticulously crafted tasting menu, created by chef Petros Dimas, elevates the essence of modern Greek cuisine, showcasing culinary creations that push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Chef Dimas doesn’t just prepare food — he tells a story. Each dish on the menu is carefully designed using fresh, high-quality ingredients that connect deeply with the land of Greece, bringing its unique and familiar flavors in a contemporary and refreshing way. In this restaurant, every bite is an experience of flavors, techniques, and stories.
Vertigo Sunset Pool Bar
Location: St. George Lycabettus Hotel
The perfect place to start or end your day. This venue offers a small refreshing pool for hot summer days and a panoramic rooftop terrace. A true urban oasis in the heart of Athens. Here you can unwind in lounge chairs, enjoying stylish cocktails and tasty finger foods. The pool is open for free to hotel guests and chargeable for outside visitors. During the afternoons, the dining experience here is light and refreshing, and in the evenings or at sunset, the place becomes even more special against the panoramic backdrop of the city.
Tudor Hall
Location: King George Hotel, Syntagma Square
A Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Athens offering an elegant and refined atmosphere, with discreet decor providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. The soft sounds of live piano music play in the background, creating a particularly intimate and romantic atmosphere. The executive chef, Asterios Kostoudis, also a Michelin awardee, in collaboration with talented chef Nikos Livadias, offers exceptional dishes made from carefully selected seasonal ingredients. Each dish is a culinary masterpiece, redefining the essence of modern Greek cuisine in an innovative and refreshing way. To complete the experience, don’t miss the stunning desserts by pastry chef Alexandros Kopas, which turn the end of the meal into a true delight. The special dishes are accompanied by a variety of carefully selected Greek wines curated by the sommelier.
For more recommendations on cruise destinations around the world, visit the website PassportCruise
Psaras Tavern
Location: Plaka Neighborhood
A tavern established in 1898 that has since become one of the most well-known and beloved spots in the city. The tavern is located in a stunning neo-classical building, just a few meters from the famous steps of Plaka. The restaurant enjoys great affection from locals and tourists alike, partly due to its loyalty to heritage and traditional Greek dishes, especially fresh fish and seafood, alongside an authentic atmosphere that takes visitors back in time. If you want to feel the true Athenian spirit and experience quality Greek food, this is the perfect place.
Dexameni Tavern
Location: Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki Neighborhood
If you’re looking for a place with an authentic atmosphere and simple yet delightful Greek food, Dexameni is the perfect spot. A small and special place, primarily comprising a small kitchen and wide tables outside. The tables are scattered along two sidewalks. The dishes are diverse, blending traditional tastes with modern twists. The menu offers perfect meze dishes like fried calamari, grilled caprino cheese with marmalade – a dish that will leave you wanting more along with a glass of ouzo or house wine.
The writers Ran and Liran specialize in designing personalized Greek vacations, private and business events, and organizing a variety of tours in the city. www.ranliran.com/he | Instagram: ranliran_travel