I’ve read through the recent-ish threads and used them, et al., to compile the following list.
We have a reservation for Varoulko, which better be good, 'cause it will coincide with me entering a new decade, and who knows how many of those I have left.
The following are on my list of maybes in Athens:
Diporto Taverna
Liondi
To Triantafyllo tis Nostimias
Linou Soumpasis k sia
In terms of general Greek restaurant tips, if you want local shrimp or squid, make sure you specify. A lot of the shellfish used in Greece are raised elsewhere, and a lot of the squid will be imported, unless it says fresh (freska). I like local Greek squid. I was specifying fresh squid on my last visit.
The local shrimp were harder to find on my last visit. I think some places would have them but they might be seasonal.
Red mullet tends to be expensive, compared to most fin fish.
Diporto is a gem in the rough. I missed it on my last trip and regret it. Nearby it is Tis Theatrou to Steki, small plates street side or a la carte inside, definitely a locals place but it is very enjoyable.
Liondi recently re-opened or I would have returned during my last trip there. It has been a couple years now, but I really enjoyed the roast lamb I had there. The chef came up and visited while I was halfway through and we talked about how lamb was just a great meal.
150 meters to the southwest of Liondi is a favorite prepared food “diner/taverna” To Kati Allo. It is a Mom and Pop place with good home cooked food in a casual atmosphere.
I also really like the atmosphere in Brettos Bar Plaka. They make their own liqueurs and it is a lot of fun to visit. I usually go an hour before nap time. LOL! It gets crowded later in the day and I am not a crowd person.
Thank you! Probably should’ve specified that we are primarily seafood & vegetable eaters, so a place that specialized in lamb would not be for us. But great info!
