Summertime Favorites in Athens, Greece

 Athens is a breathtaking city. In fact, it is one of the oldest cities in the world with a recorded history of over 3,400 years, and over that time, the city has racked up many local specialties that Greeks enjoy when the weather gets hot. When you visit Athens be sure to indulge yourself in these 5 must-try summertime specialties at popular Athens eateries.

1. Traditional Greek Yogurt Stani

Located near Omonia Square in the city center, Stani is where you go when you want to try real Greek yogurt and other yummy dairy delights such as cheese pie, cream pudding, and rice pudding. This is Athens’ last traditional dairy bar and was even featured on the premiere episode of the Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations” as a must try! Many Greeks go for coffee and a treat at this classic favorite.

2. Sweets from Konstantinoupoli at Karakoy Gulluogluv

There are so many bakeries selling baklava and other sweets throughout Athens, making it difficult to choose where to sample the best of this iconic specialty. Check out Karakoy Gulluoglu, located near Syntagma Square in the center of Athens. Here you will find the best sampling of traditional Konstinoplean desserts! You can eat there or take a box to go.

3. Greek Donuts at Loukoumades

Loukoumades is the eatery named after what it serves – Greek donuts. Located in Aghias Irinis Square in downtown Athens, here you will find traditional, freshly made loukoumades with a variety of toppings to choose from such as chocolate sauce, honey, cinnamon, powdered sugar, or even ice cream. Just be sure to save room for dessert!

4. Gemista at Oinomageireio H Epirus

Gemista is the Greek word for ‘stuffed’ and the summertime dish is a favorite! Served at room temperature, this lunchtime specialty is made of peppers, tomatoes and zucchini stuffed with rice, herbs, pine nuts and even sometimes currents and meat. This is a great dish you must try while in Athens and the place to try it is at Oinomageireio H Epirus located at Varvakeios Market, near Omonia Square in the center of Athens. This hidden taverna is known for its traditional Greek dishes.

5. Sweet Spoons with Greek Yogurt

Fresko Yogurt Bar in Plaka is the place to go when you want creamy refreshing Greek yogurt topped with your favorite spoonful of sweet preserves made from healthy ingredients such as fruits or figs. This is one of the top summertime treats throughout Athens and something that you must try on your vacation!