Here’s our list of the best ‘cheap eats’ in Athens for delicious food and memorable meals

Just arrived in Athens and don’t know any good dining spots in the neighborhood yet? No more struggles with finding a budget-friendly and tasty place to eat. We put together a list of the Top 5 Cheap Eats in Athens. Scroll down to discover the best dishes that will satisfy your wallet and taste buds! Stay until the end to discover a true hidden gem! 

Get Souvlaki from Kosta like the locals

Location: Pl. Agias Irinis 2, Athina 105 60, Greece
Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 10am – 6pm 

Only when you arrive do you realize what you’ve been missing all these years. And that is nothing other than the world’s best, freshly grilled souvlaki for only 3€ – this is every backpacker’s dream and a true cheap eats spot in Athens.  

It’s a must-try and a true cheap-eats spot. Following a family tradition, the shop has been around since 1950 and is now run by the grandson of the original founder. 

They pretty much only serve souvlaki, but the fact that they have been open for so long must mean something. 

Given that you can’t eat the food inside and it often happens that all the tables outside are occupied, I’d recommend taking your food and arranging a picnic in the National Garden, which is only one kilometer away.

Try Meze at Ama Lachei 

Location: Kallidromiou 69, Athina 106 83, Greece 

Opening hours: Every day from 12pm – 11:30pm / 12am 

Ever heard of meze? It’s a collection of small Greek dishes, similar to Spanish tapas, meant to be shared at the table. From simple fried country-style potatoes to roasted eggplants with fresh tomatoes and feta cheese mousse, they serve a great assembly of fresh, traditional Greek food.

If you’re looking for a proper place to sit down but still don’t want to pay too much, head this way. The dishes will be served right out of the oven, arriving over the course of the entire evening. Therefore, you never have to wait too long, and everything arrives in the best quality. Dinner here easily turns into an unforgettable night, with great drinks and plenty of shared laughter.

Both the outdoor and inside seating areas are beautiful. However, if you make it there during the summer, we definitely recommend the serene outdoor seating. Nevertheless, to avoid unpleasant surprises, you can make a reservation online.   

Affordable Greek cuisine at Το Μικράκι

Location: Arionos 3, Athina 105 54, Greece
Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday from 4pm – 12:30am and Saturday–Sunday from 1am – 12:30am

This is the place to go to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine for a reasonable price.

All the other restaurants in the area are overshadowed by this bright yellow building in the beautiful Psiri neighborhood. Also, the fantastic team’s goal is to make each guest feel special and welcomed.

Glasses of wine start at 2€, and the Greek salad is less than 5€. This is a lovely restaurant with excellent value for money.

Kafeneio Ivis: fresh and cheap food for everyone

Location: 105 54, Ivis 10, Athina 105 54, Greece
Opening hours: Every day from 12pm – 1am (Fridays and Saturdays until 2am) 

A sincere local recommendation: The menu is small—just like the prices. In return, every dish tastes fabulous. Somehow they make the easiest dishes, like tomato salad, finger-licking good. I don’t know how they do it—it must be the fresh, local ingredients.

Although the portions are quite generous, I’d recommend ordering several dishes to share with everyone. You won’t regret it!

Our Number one cheap eats spot in Athens: Ypsala

Location: Ostrovou , Athina 113 63, Greece
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 5pm – 1am 

Last but not least, the true star of the show you’ve been waiting for. The best restaurant in Athens, in my opinion. The moment I stepped in, I was sold. Traditional, original, and simple cuisine all in one. You’ll not only find typical Greek dishes but also some unusual but equally delicious creations. Even if you’re only staying in Athens for a stopover, this is the restaurant you have to visit. I fell in love with their interior design, and while looking around, I felt pure happiness at finally being in Athens, enjoying some of the best food I’d ever had. They also have a great selection of drinks, and when you make your way back home or head to the next club in your slightly tipsy state, all you can still think about is the great food you just had.  

Still hungry? 

We hear you loud and clear. Additionally, we created an Anti-Tourist Guide for Athens. This time we listed some cafes with great snacks for in-between meals! Like this article? Check out our Instagram and TikTok page to see more of these!

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