Souvlaki - Greece’s most iconic and enduring comfort food - never goes out of style. And because it deserves nothing less, we set out to taste it in every form: classic pork wrapped in pita, spicy kebabs, vegan reimaginings, and everything in between. These are our favourite spots across the capital - one of them just might become yours too.

Downtown

Kapsa, Monastiraki

When word spread on social media that renowned chef Christoforos Peskias had opened a souvlaki restaurant in the heart of Athens, the city buzzed with anticipation - and rightly so. Kapsa lives up to the hype with a small but clever menu: classic recipes made with care and a few inventive twists. What sets it apart? The gyros and skewers are cooked over charcoal instead of the usual vertical grill - a small detail that makes a world of difference. The traditional pork gyros with tomato, onion, and tzatziki is a sure bet. Purists might raise an eyebrow at the absence of fries (they’ll add them only if you insist), but that’s part of its charm. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the curry-marinated chicken souvlaki or the pork skewer with pico de gallo - a bright mix of tomato, onion, and parsley - or the pork gyros with yogurt, tomato, and avocado for a lighter, summery touch. Kapsa is one of those rare “talk of the town” places that actually deserve the talk.

Kapsa. 34 Praxitelous & Skouleniou St, Monastiraki  (+30) 210-32.31.366

Kostas, Syntagma

If you want to taste traditional, authentic souvlaki - the original, the pure version, before it was overloaded with potatoes and sauces - go to Kostas. From grandfather to grandson, the business has moved three times between Plaka and Syntagma before finally settling on Filellinon Street. Before you fall in love with the souvlaki itself, you will fall in love with Kostas and his wife, Popi, who make every wrap by hand - but even more so with their warmth, character, and sense of humor. Fresh meat is purchased daily, and once it’s sold out, the restaurant closes for the day, usually in the early afternoon. This is a wrapped masterpiece: lean meat, an art form with a heritage dating back to 1950. It’s available in two versions - pork or beef - served with plenty of parsley, tomato, onion, fluffy pita bread, and yogurt that truly makes a difference. Chili flakes are optional, for those who like a stronger kick. The secret is in the wrapping: every bite contains all the ingredients and the full depth of flavor, without falling apart and without getting messy. Even if there’s a line, don’t panic - the signs on the wall reassure you: “Relax,” and you won’t regret it. Kostas’ skill keeps its promise: no matter how many people are ahead of you, your turn will come quickly. And a word of advice when ordering: one is never enough!

Kostas. 7 Filellinon St, Syntagma

Hoocut, Agia Irini Square

In Agia Irini Square, right in the heart of Athens, there’s a souvlaki restaurant that will satisfy your hunger on days when you want something quick, tasty, and satisfying after a shopping spree. The restaurant, owned by Spiros and Vangelis Liakos - the successful duo behind Basegrill in Peristeri and Glyfada - proves that food made quickly can also be delicious, without compromising the quality of the ingredients. The portions are generous, too. Hoocut also respects different dietary preferences, with the menu including everything from lamb souvlaki to squid souvlaki, as well as dolmades for vegans or anyone looking for something different in the moment.

Hoocut. 9 Agia Irini Square, Athens. Phone: (+30) 210-32.40.026

Cookoomela Grill, Exarchia

Fresh, flavorful, and entirely plant-based - Cookoomela Grill embraces a Mediterranean diet with pure ingredients, respect for the environment, and, of course, fresh mushrooms. Haven’t tried mushroom souvlaki yet? It’s time to change that. Just a stone’s throw from Exarchia Square, this vibrant spot serves colorful mushroom souvlaki, accompanied by delicious vegetable sauces, crisp, fresh vegetables, and perfectly golden potatoes. Once you visit, one trip won’t be enough - you’ll find yourself wanting to try everything on the menu. Portions are generous, and the options are endlessly tempting: from mushroom gyros paired with golden French fries, to the vegan kebab featuring hearty lentil souvlaki. And yes - you’ll almost certainly want to take some home for later. For busy passersby, plant-based enthusiasts, or anyone simply curious about mushroom-based creations, Cookoomela Grill is nothing short of a treasure trove.

Cookoomela Grill. 43-45 Themistokleous, Exarchia. Phone: (+30) 211-18.22.343

Achilles, Neos Kosmos

Nestled in Neos Kosmos, Achilles is a small but legendary souvlaki spot with a long-standing history, serving high-quality, traditionally prepared souvlaki. Over the years, it has been my go-to when life got hectic - those days packed with work or studying when all I wanted was a quick, satisfying meal on my way home. Of course, this meant arriving early; come after 8 p.m., and chances are everything has already sold out. The standout here is the juicy, peppery pork gyros, made in-house and wrapped in fresh, soft unleavened pita, complemented by finely chopped onion, parsley, tomato, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Since 1987, Achilles has insisted on doing everything by hand - from the gyros and chicken and pork skewers, grilled over fragrant charcoal, to the pitas and creamy tzatziki. One key detail: Achilles isn’t available on any delivery apps. You need to visit in person, which only adds to the charm of enjoying an authentic, hand-crafted souvlaki. It’s a true taste of tradition, and every bite tells a story.

Achilles. 18 Spintharou St, Neos Kosmos. Phone: (+30) 210-90.21.391

Lefteris Politis, Omonia & Syntagma

Since 1951, in the bustling heart of Omonia, Lefteris has been serving up traditional souvlaki with spicy beef patties or sujuk. Here, simplicity is key: relatively small, perfectly oiled pita, filled with finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, juicy tomato, and a generous dusting of red pepper. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, originating with Stavros Savvoglou, who brought his culinary heritage from Istanbul when he first opened the small restaurant. His son Lefteris took over the family tradition, and today, Tasos continues to uphold it. Nearby, another establishment honoring the same family tradition now operates in the city center on Romvis Street. But what truly makes this souvlaki unforgettable, beyond the juicy, flavorful meat, is the pita itself - baked directly atop the meat. This simple touch infuses the bread with all the savory aromas, giving each bite a magical depth of flavor.

Lefteris Politis. 20 Satovriandou St, Omonia. Phone: (+30) 210-52.25.676 / 18 Romvis St, Syntagma. Phone: (+30) 210-33.10.010

Giorgos-Manos, Exarchia

A true Exarchia classic since the 1980s, Giorgos-Manos is a beloved hangout tucked along the pedestrian street of Koletti. With just a handful of tables, it offers a range of mouthwatering options, from skewers to sausages. For me, the draw is always the gyros and the exceptional kontosouvli - order the pork kontosouvli souvlaki, and it’s a bite you won’t soon forget. Loyal customers and long queues are the norm here. If you want to score kontosouvli or gyros, arriving early is essential; these delights vanish quickly. While the gyros is cooked on an electric grill, the rest of the meats are grilled over charcoal, adding that smoky depth that makes every bite memorable. Accompanying the meat are perfectly fried potatoes and creamy, flavorful tzatziki. A word of caution: the shop closes early on weekdays and remains closed on weekends. If you were hoping for a holiday or August visit, forget about it, as Giorgos-Manos keeps its schedule sacred.

Giorgos-Manos. 39 Themistokleous St, Exarchia. Phone: (+30) 210-38.15.442

Volvi, Varvakeios Market

Nestled at the side entrance of Varvakeios Market on Evripidou Street, Volvi serves up exclusively pork, either as handmade souvlaki or soutzoukakia straight off the grill. The owners, Aris and Tasos, share a remarkable chemistry and are as known for their warm humor as for their cooking. True fans of the classic Greek film “Let the Women Wait”, which is set in Volvi, they named the restaurant in homage. The walls are adorned with quotes from the film, handwritten or stuck on as stickers, creating a space that’s as playful and unique as it is inviting. And while you soak in the atmosphere, you’ll be enjoying some of the most delicious souvlaki in Athens - small, perfectly wrapped, with just the right pita, finely chopped tomato, onion, parsley, and the unmistakable aroma of charcoal that takes you straight back to childhood. Don’t expect tzatziki or potatoes here. Instead, the accompaniments are minimalist but punchy: mustard or a fiery handmade sauce made from Florina peppers, which adds just the right kick to each bite.

Volvi. 24 Evripidou St, Varvakeios Market, Athens. Phone: (+30) 211-11.80.587

Karafla’s Pita, Pagrati

Since opening in 2002, Karafla’s Pita has been a constant in my school years and beyond—every outing seemed to also include an excuse for grabbing a souvlaki to go. Located in Pagrati, this family-run spot is famous for its consistently excellent offerings. While I have a soft spot for the kebab and the chicken fillet, my friends swear by the gyros - whatever you order, it’s hard to go wrong. Each wrap is accompanied by their signature sauce, a perfect complement that will quickly have you hooked. Beyond the food, the staff’s friendliness and attentiveness stand out - they manage to stay helpful and cheerful even when the place is packed, adding to the overall charm of the experience.

Karafla’s Pita. 142 Filolaou St, Pagrati. Phone: (+30) 210-70.10.333

Prigkipas, Exarchia

During a recent stroll through Exarchia, I found myself at Prigkipas for the second time, drawn in by the memory of a juicy, delicious beef burger wrapped in pita - and, of course, by the nostalgic tunes from their vinyl records, evoking the charm of an old Greek movie. Prigkipas takes a slightly elevated approach to street food. Alongside classic souvlaki and sandwiches, they offer unique meats such as Kerkini buffalo, Florina kebabs, and Tzoumagia sausage. On my visit, I couldn’t resist my favorite - the classic beef patty souvlaki - but also tried one with kebabs, accompanied by perfectly cooked onions and tomatoes, crispy potatoes with oregano, and a flavorful paprika sauce. The overall experience is enhanced by the restaurant’s vintage aesthetic: retro furniture, a record player spinning timeless melodies, and an ambiance more reminiscent of a meze restaurant than a typical souvlaki joint. It’s a spot that turns a simple meal into a delightful outing, making it a must-visit for both locals and curious travelers alike. 

Prigkipas. 23 Char. Trikoupi St, Exarchia. Phone: (+30) 211-40.50.070

Thomas, Neos Kosmos

Alongside Achilleas, Thomas is widely regarded as one of the best souvlaki spots in Athens, and arguably the finest in Neos Kosmos. This is the place to savor a perfectly crafted kebab, made according to a recipe with a long and storied history. Thomas himself hails from Armenia, having spent time in Syria and Lebanon before settling - fortunately for us - in Athens. He honed his skills as a grill chef and wrap maker at the iconic Savvas souvlaki in Monastiraki, before opening his own restaurant in Neos Kosmos in 1987. Since then, the name Thomas has become synonymous with handmade, high-quality kebabs in the area. Here, simplicity is key. The kebabs are made from a balanced mix of lamb and beef, paired only with freshly chopped onion, tomato, and soft pita bread. No elaborate sauces or unnecessary toppings - just pure, mouthwatering flavor. Each bite is a reminder of what traditional souvlaki should be: authentic, satisfying, and beautifully executed.

Thomas. 49 Sarkodinou St, Neos Kosmos. Phone: (+30) 210-90.15.981

Pavlis, Mets

Pavlis is a beloved souvlaki spot that has moved locations three times within the area, yet each time it has retained its charm and quality. I remember it from my first souvlaki experience, back when it was still tucked away on Trivonianou Street in a tiny space barely accommodating two tables. Today, it thrives on Pytheou Street, offering a complete dining experience, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends. This family-run restaurant, now led by the founder’s son, continues to excel in all aspects. The pork skewers and kebabs are expertly prepared, including unique options like kebabs stuffed with cream cheese. Pair them with a crisp salad, perfectly textured tzatziki, and hand-cut French fries, alongside an ice-cold beer, and you have the recipe for a perfect night out. Pavlis is a place that invites lingering conversation and full enjoyment of Greek street food done right. 

Pavlis. 20 Pytheou St, Athens. Phone: (+30) 69-70.66.20.53

Mavros Tragos, Zografou

Mavros Tragos is a standout destination for souvlaki lovers, offering a superb range of grilled and spit-roasted meats without ever compromising on quality. Here, it’s all about the ingredients - fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared.
My first visit introduced me to a wrap with chicken kontosouvli, and I also tried the pork skewers. Hand on heart, every bite was a revelation. While gyros isn’t on the menu, the grill shines with lamb chops, beef and chicken steaks, and of course, the kontosouvli cooked to perfection. The portions are generous, the vegetables fresh, and the accompanying sauces enhance rather than overpower the flavors. This is a place for both mushroom enthusiasts and traditional meat lovers. The combination of care in preparation, quality ingredients, and attention to detail makes Mavros Tragos an essential stop for anyone exploring the souvlaki scene in Zografou.

Mavros Tragos. 54 Papadiamantopoulou St, Zografou. Phone: (+30) 210-74.75.358

Empeiro, Neos Kosmos

“Empeiro” means “experienced”, and this souvlaki spot truly lives up to its name. Known for its high-quality ingredients and rapid service, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors alike. When you step in, you’ll see at least six staff members working efficiently to serve customers immediately - whether you choose to eat standing at the stools outside or take your order to go. They also offer delivery, making it convenient for busy days. Their pork skewers are a must-try, especially with the feta they include in the pita - it elevates the flavor beautifully. Every wrap is carefully prepared, and the consistency of ingredients and seasoning is impeccable. Located right next to the Fix metro station, Empeiro is ideal for a quick, satisfying souvlaki before heading out to explore Koukaki or the vibrant new bars on Menaihmou Street.

Empeiro. 28 Herakleous St, Neos Kosmos. Phone: (+30) 210-92.21.016

Southern Suburbs

Livadia, Glyfada

Everyone in Glyfada knows Livadia - and so do most people from the neighboring areas, maybe even from other parts of Athens. And rightly so. When someone asks where to find a really good souvlaki in Glyfada - whether Upper, Lower, from the beach to the mountain - Livadia is one of the first names that comes to mind. For many, it’s the only one. For over 35 years, this family-run spot has been passing its know-how from father to son, serving some of the most delicious skewers you’ll ever taste - pork or chicken, always juicy and flavorful. The pita bread is brushed with oil the old-fashioned way, simply and perfectly, and the signature pink sauce - now a rarity - gives it that nostalgic touch. Onion replaces lettuce, as it should, and a generous sprinkle of paprika completes the masterpiece. Potatoes are only added if you ask for them. If you want to order, you’ll need to call and be patient - the phone lines are as hot as the grill. But honestly, takeaway is the best option anyway.

Livadia. 130 Andrea Papandreou St, Glyfada. Phone: (+30) 210-96.48.233

Elliniko, Elliniko

Elliniko’s souvlaki is famous across Athens. Well - maybe not the whole city, but I can’t count how many times I’ve heard, “I’ve heard there’s a great spot down south, Elliniko. Is it really that good?” The answer: yes, it is.
On Iasonidou Avenue, you’ll spot a retro, old-fashioned sign that reads in bold capital letters: “SOUVLAKI, GYROS, BEEF PATTIES, ELLINIKO,” and another bright sign that simply declares, “SOUVLAKI HERE.” It’s as if it’s insisting you stop - and you should, because you won’t regret it. Even if there’s a line outside, don’t hesitate. Service is impressively quick, and the hands wrapping the souvlaki move with such skill and precision that you’d swear they were born to do this. Elliniko opened in the 1990s and has since made countless souvlakia - simple, traditional, and unpretentious. If you order and wait at the counter, you’ll see your pita dipped in oil before being filled with your choice of chicken or pork gyros, skewers, or their specialty: juicy beef patties, which I highly recommend. Each one is completed with tomato, onion, potatoes, and a spoonful of delicious homemade tzatziki (just the right amount for the pork) or a flavorful sauce for the chicken, finished with a dusting of salt and paprika. And best of all, the prices are among the most reasonable you’ll find anywhere for such quality souvlaki.

Elliniko. 40 Iasonidou Avenue, Elliniko. Phone: (+30) 210-96.18.704

Zachos, Varkiza

Everyone in the area - and in the neighboring suburbs, and perhaps even all of Athens - knows Zachos in Varkiza. It’s one of the city’s most iconic souvlaki spots, having fed generations of locals, summer vacationers, and beachgoers looking for something delicious after a swim. The gyros here are exceptional, whether you go for pork or chicken, perfectly seasoned and always fresh. The French fries are legendary too - crispy, golden, and topped with an irresistible secret sauce that keeps people coming back. Despite the constant rush (and on some days the demand can be truly overwhelming), Zachos manages to serve everyone impressively fast. And if you want something beyond gyros, there are also juicy burgers and several variations of grilled chicken on offer. It’s no exaggeration to call Zachos the very definition of a souvlaki restaurant - simple, reliable, and always satisfying.

Zachos. 94 Vasileos Konstantinou St, Varkiza. Phone: (+30) 210-96.56.879

Koukli, Kallithea & Agios Dimitrios

You can find Koukli in both Agios Dimitrios and Kallithea, though I’ve only been to the one in Kallithea - fortunately, I have friends who live nearby. This is the place to go if you appreciate real traditional souvlaki, because Koukli is famous for its chicken kontosouvli and kokoretsi - and for good reason. Whether you enjoy your order wrapped in pita or served in bite-sized pieces, you’ll be amazed by the tenderness and flavour of the meat. If you’re visiting for the first time, I’d recommend the mixed variety platter so you can sample everything - they’re generous portions, and you can be sure the meat is top quality. And don’t forget to pair your mea - whether it’s wrapped or plated with a cold Greek beer; they stock several excellent local options.

Koukli. 154 El. Venizelou Avenue, Kallithea. Phone: (+30) 216-90.04.232 / 166 Ag. Dimitriou Avenue, Agios Dimitrios. Phone: (+30) 210-93.32.166

Platia, Dafni

Platia (Greek for “square”) in Dafni is exactly what its name suggests - the neighbourhood souvlaki joint right in the heart of a small square (or “Charavgi,” as locals call it). From late afternoon onwards, the air fills with the laughter of children playing in the playground, the clinking of glasses from nearby cafés and meze bars, and, of course, the aroma of freshly grilled souvlaki from Platia. The portions are hearty and full of flavour, exactly what you’d hope for in a local favourite. I’d especially recommend the chicken shish kebab - juicy, perfectly seasoned, and grilled to perfection - though the pork version comes a close second. They also serve gyros, but for me, it’s always the chicken skewers that win.

Platia. 3 Pentelis St, Dafni. Phone: (+30) 210-97.18.868

Rosides, Kallithea

It would be almost sacrilegious to leave this place off the list. I won’t get into their legendary piroshki this time - that’s a whole other story - but let’s focus on the souvlaki. Tucked away in a spot that’s practically hidden and not easily reached by public transport, this unassuming Russian-run restaurant is a beloved neighborhood secret. Every resident of Kallithea knows it, and many Athenians from across the city make the trip just to taste it. The sign outside is simple and no-nonsense: “Souvlaki - Piroshki.” That’s all you need to know. The restaurant was opened more than 50 years ago by two immigrants from Uzbekistan - like many similar small shops in the area - hence the name. Today, Mrs. Anna has been running it since 1990, preparing and wrapping the divine souvlaki that ends up in your hands. It’s only open for five hours a day, from 7 p.m. to midnight, and that’s all it needs - there’s no delivery, no online orders, and no gimmicks. The souvlaki sells out on its own. Each wrap is pure simplicity: tender meat (I recommend either the pork skewer or their superb beef patty), tomato, onion, and their signature red sauce, which ties it all together beautifully. A timeless classic.

Rosides. 16 Anagnostara & Grypari St, Kallithea. Phone: (+30) 211-11.92.145

Loza, Ilioupoli

Loza in Ilioupoli draws crowds from all over the southern suburbs, and for good reason: its famous skewers. Whether you go for chicken, pork, beef, or even lamb, they’re all handmade, grilled over charcoal, and irresistibly juicy.
You can enjoy them on their own, served as a hearty portion with freshly cut fries and a selection of meze dishes - many with a distinct Eastern flair. Try the salted pork or sujuk with eggs and fries, the lahmacun, or the kebabs on a skewer. Everything here is made with care and packed with flavor. If you prefer a wrap, you’ll be just as happy - each one is generously filled with whatever ingredients you fancy. And for those who like a more “hardcore” bite, you can skip the pita entirely and choose fluffy bread or Armenian flatbread instead. Whichever way you go, Loza delivers the kind of satisfaction that keeps people coming back.

Loza. 57 Kyprion Iroon Avenue, Ilioupoli. Phone: (+30) 210-99.50.057

Gnision, Voula

Voula Square is one of the most classic meeting points for families in the southern suburbs, especially those with young children. On weekend afternoons, the taverns that line the square are always packed, with the sound of kids playing in the background. Among them stands Gnision - a place that has built its reputation on one thing above all: kebabs. If you don’t live in the south and find yourself in Voula for lunch, you’ll probably go for the generous kebab portions, skewers, or platters, complete with the traditional sides listed on the menu. But if you’re a local or simply looking for something quick and satisfying to take away, Gnision’s souvlaki deserves your attention. Personally, I recommend the kebab souvlaki - juicy, flavorful, and wrapped simply with tomato and onion, exactly as the classic recipe dictates. Of course, you can add sauce or tzatziki if you prefer, but it hardly needs it. If you’re more of a skewer fan, Gnision also grills exceptional pork and chicken skewers, perfectly paired with their crisp, freshly fried potatoes. And for the more adventurous, the sujuk or pastourma wrapped in pita is an irresistible twist.

Gnision. 82 Vasileos Pavlou Avenue, Voula. Phone: (+30) 210-89.51.131

Northern Suburbs

Panerythraikos, Nea Erythrea

Panerythraikos is a true legend of Nea Erythrea - a souvlaki spot that has been serving the same timeless recipe for over 50 years. There’s no tzatziki, no fancy sauces, no unnecessary frills. Just pure, classic flavor that you eat almost without pausing for breath. You’d never expect to find something so special tucked away in such an unassuming spot, but even Michelin-starred chefs have spoken highly of it. The setting is humble, with plain tables and no décor to distract you from what matters: the food. The story begins with Giorgos Maraziotis, the father of today’s owner, Dimitris. Giorgos, once the top scorer for the local football team Panerythraikos, opened this tiny shop to feed his fellow fans. His recipe hasn’t changed since: no tzatziki, just a sprinkle of salt and red pepper, plus tomato and onion mixed with parsley. You can add potatoes if you like - though that’s considered a modern variation. The menu remains as simple as ever: pork souvlaki, wrapped or served open, with chopped tomatoes, onion with parsley, a few fries, tomato salad, feta, and a beer or wine to wash it all down. That’s the secret - it sticks to what it knows best, and does it perfectly.

Panerythraikos. 11 Anaxagora St, Nea Erythrea. Phone: (+30) 210-80.00.271

Filothei’s Souvlaki, Filothei

I recently moved to Filothei, and one of the best discoveries in my new neighborhood has been Filothei’s Souvlaki - a refined yet welcoming spot that feels a little more “classy” than your typical souvlaki joint. What I love most is its inviting setup: comfortable seating, spotless surroundings, and a pleasant atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re dining out rather than just grabbing a quick bite. Not that I don’t enjoy the classic souvlaki experience - the kind where you eat from a paper wrap and pick up fries with your fingers - but everything has its time and place. Here, I come for the variety and care in every detail. Chicken souvlaki from the breast or the thigh? Or maybe chicken wrapped in bacon? Regular or light gyros? Whole wheat, corn, or traditional pita? And if you’re in the mood for kebabs, my kids swear these are the best they’ve ever had - and I’d have to agree, especially when you add their perfectly golden fries on the side. It’s become a neighborhood favorite for good reason: consistent quality, great flavors, and plenty of options for every taste.

Filothei’s Souvlaki. 65 Kapodistriou Avenue, Filothei. Phone: (+30) 210-68.38.688

Rodopipero, Pefki

Since 2018, Rodopipero has been a welcome addition to the Pefki food scene—a small but impressive souvlaki spot tucked away on a quiet alley just off Eirinis Avenue. Everything they do here, they do well. The chicken gyros is exceptional, as is the pork: dry-roasted, perfectly balanced, and rich in flavor without being greasy. The souvlaki is tender and carefully prepared, with gluten-free options thoughtfully included. Their pitas come in all varieties -corn-based, whole wheat, Cypriot, or Arabic - while the fries are crisp and golden, and the salads go beyond the ordinary. There are also three types of kebabs (yes, yogurt is included), and surprisingly, even a selection of vegan dishes. Vegan at a souvlaki shop? Why not? Whether you’re avoiding meat or just want something lighter, there’s soy or halloumi souvlaki, meatless burgers, falafel, tomato fritters, and a range of creative salads. My personal favorites: the fantastic chicken souvlaki from the thigh, the Rodopi salad with greens, parmesan, and fruit - or the one with cherry tomatoes, katiki cheese, and basil pesto - and the chicken gyros wrapped in Arabic pita. It’s lovely to sit out on the small balcony, but in summer, it’s even better when they open the windows and set up tables in the little square across the street.

Rodopipero. Nik. Plastira & 14 Eirinis Avenue, Pefki. Phone: (+30) 210-80.55.433

Psychiko’s Souvlaki, Neo Psychiko

For many residents of Psychiko, there’s only one address that matters: Psychiko’s Souvlaki. A name that seems so simple, yet says everything. This spot has earned a loyal following for its delicious chicken skewers and juicy gyros - whether you prefer pork or chicken. If you lean toward the latter, don’t miss the chicken fillet, available either as a portion or wrapped - it’s one of the tastiest versions you’ll find anywhere. What sets this place apart is its variety. Beyond the classics, you’ll find wraps, portions, fresh salads, gyros, spreads, zucchini balls, and even burgers. A small detail worth noting: their pitas are unsalted - a traditional touch - and while the fries aren’t hand-cut, they’re perfectly crispy and genuinely satisfying. Sometimes you just have to admit: they’re too good to argue with. 

Psychiko’s Souvlaki. 2 Omirou St, Neo Psychiko. Phone: (+30) 210-67.56.655

Telion, Neo Heraklion

True to its name, Telion - which means “perfect” in Greek - really does serve some of the most perfect souvlaki around. There’s hardly a single local in the northern suburbs who doesn’t have it near the top of their list. This is a true family-run business, with every member pitching in since 1985. And yes, you might occasionally catch them bickering behind the counter (as families do), but that only adds to its charm - and never affects the quality of the food.
Telion doesn’t make gyros, nor do they offer delivery, so you’ll need to go in person to order or pick up your meal. There are a few tables inside and outside, and although it’s always busy, the quick turnover means you’ll almost always find a spot. As for what to order? Start with their chicken souvlaki - it’s handmade, juicy, and perfectly grilled. Wrapped with tomato, mustard, and a light yogurt sauce, it’s unbeatable. The pork skewers are just as good: tender, dry-roasted, and served with tzatziki and finely sliced onion. You can also try their homemade chicken wings or their golden, hand-prepared fries for the full experience.

Telion. 20 Plapouta Avenue, Neo Heraklion. Phone: (+30) 210-28.14.866

Western Suburbs

Eulogison, Ilion

Stelios Kardamitsis, the man behind Eulogison, is far from your typical restaurateur. He crafts his pies and grills them on a unique long grill of his own invention. Thin, almost ascetic in appearance, with a quiet melancholy in his eyes, Stelios is nonetheless warm, tattooed, and entirely devoted to his craft. He answers questions willingly and even treats you to one of his creations. The shop itself is extraordinary, even for a souvlaki restaurant. Step inside, and you enter a colorful universe: the front has a canteen-like energy, while the back evokes a church sanctuary. A velvet curtain with golden crosses - like those on priests’ vestments - separates the spaces, and above it hangs a chandelier adorned with saints. Icons of Christ and the Virgin Mary decorate the yellow wall, creating a unique, almost sacred atmosphere. Now, the food. The pita for the pies is entirely homemade: water, flour, yeast, salt, kneading, blessing (essential for the recipe to work), and patience, as it must rise and mature for at least a day. The dough is then cut, rolled, puffed, and pre-baked on the grill. Mayonnaise is homemade, the potatoes are hand-cut and fried on the spot, and the souvlaki skewers come from carefully selected meats, threaded one by one by hand. Each wrap is a masterpiece: juicy meat, freshly cut tomatoes, handmade salsa, finely chopped onion, and parsley. If you’re a fan of potatoes, they’ll happily include some, or else serve the wrap with their signature red sauce, tou ponirou - “the cunning one” - and a touch of sour cheese.

Eulogison. 481 Thivon St, Ilion. Phone: (+30) 210-57.03.100

Near Piraeus Port

Giorgos, Piraeus

In the port of Piraeus, Giorgos may be a relatively new arrival - opened in 2019 - but the souvlaki here is thoroughly old school. Simple, small, and made in the classic style: pita bread, juicy beef patties, tomato, onion, parsley, red sauce, and a touch of spicy pepper. Nothing more, nothing less - but every bite is uniquely delicious. The shop is tiny, with an open kitchen where staff knead and grill patties, wrap souvlaki, and prepare burger portions in a constant rhythm. Gyros or skewers? You won’t find them here. French fries or tzatziki? Not on the menu. Everything is handmade and fresh. Even the pita bread comes from a special recipe: because they don’t have a workshop in-store, a small Piraeus factory prepares it to their exact specifications. “This was the souvlaki my father ate as a child,” Giorgos explains. “Tomato, onion, and beef patty in pita bread. Simple things. There was no mustard sauce, ketchup, pre-fried potatoes, or ready-made gyros—and that’s exactly what we wanted to offer people.”

Giorgos. 18 Gounari & Nikita St, Piraeus. Phone: (+30) 211-40.33.388