A Guide To The Best Souvlaki In Athens

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Restaurant, Greek, $$
Kalamaki Bar is a modern grill restaurant that serves delicious, tender grilled meat (sourced from small local farms), salads, and fresh-cut French fries. But they stand out due to their variety of souvlaki (kalamaki), as well as the fact that they use nothing but Greek ingredients. Forget the classic pork and chicken souvlaki, and try the lamb or beef for a change.

O Kostas is located behind the former Ministry of Education building. In business since 1950, and despite the various changes of locations, the place still serves the same winning menu items it always has. If you feel like visiting, try to drop by before lunch to avoid the long lines, and make sure to visit before 3 p.m. as the venue closes when they run out of meat.

Operating since 1963, Livadia is a souvlatzidiko known for its tasty pork souvlaki and the fact that you can get your fill of bread while enjoying your flavorful meal. While it may not necessarily be good for those on a low-carb diet, it is one of the best spots to get your kalamaki fix if you are near Kaningos Square.

Elvis is the place to go for souvlaki should you find yourself in Gazi or the surrounding area. Offering a simple but quality menu, Elvis serves delicious French fries and light (yes, light) pitas with a choice of chicken or pork souvlaki, sausages or kebab meat served directly on the skewer. Order some raki to wash it all down, and you’re set to go party afterward.

Restaurant, Mediterranean, Greek, $
Even though you are in the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood, you don’t have to be worried about an expensive bill at this next restaurant. If you are craving a souvlaki, head to Kalamaki Kolonaki where you can satisfy your souvlaki cravings in a jiffy with options such as turkey breast or salmon on a skewer or even a rib-eye. With a diverse menu, Kalamaki Kolonaki also offers salads and dips.

If you are in Syntagma but Kostas is closed, don’t worry as Meatropoleos 3 is the perfect plan B. Serving a mean souvlaki with a vast variety of options, you can still find the usual souvlaki suspects, with beef and turkey patties as well. But if your visit downtown has left you famished, order a steak or a larger portion of souvlaki, along with a creative salad.