The Top 9 Restaurants In Koukaki Athens

A central district now gaining much-deserved attention, Koukaki is a residential neighborhood that has been experiencing a boom for the past couple of years. Flanked by the Acropolis and tourist-packed Plaka on one side and low-key Petralona on the other side, Koukaki is an ideal place to wander around, discover small cafés and bistros, or simply experience Athens like the locals. Here is a roundup of the best restaurants and eateries in this hip district.

1. The Fabrica Of Euphrosinos

Restaurant, Greek, Vegetarian

This new hot spot is often overlooked by tourists but revered by locals. The Fabrica of Euphrosinos was established by George Gatsos and serves hearty dishes such as slow-cooked ribs, lamb pie, and veal chops along with vegetarian options. Gatsos’ wife, Athina Tsoli, is a hard-core oenologist who has her own label. The duo makes this small restaurant a lovely destination for traditional Greek cuisine with a twist.

2. Hops Beer and Burgers

Bar, Greek, Vegetarian, Pub Grub

Why choose between beer or burgers? At Hops, you can have both. Here, you will find a wide selection of tasty, juicy burgers and more than 30 beers. The menu features a new burger paired with a recommended beer, and vegetarians, know that you are not forgotten (the Portobello burger with truffle mayonnaise is to die for). Hops Beer and Burgers is an all-day bar that makes everyone happy.

3. ManiMani

Restaurant, Greek

This restaurant set in a minimalist setting is honoring traditional cuisine from the Mani Peninsula, in Peloponnese. No need to travel there (though you should), as you can sample everything the region has to offer here at ManiMani. For example, try the giouvetsi (beef in tomato sauce), the traditional Mani sausage with orange, or the bardouniotikos (rooster stewed with feta). Because of its location, ManiMani is an excellent oasis in which to take a break from the city.

5. Monsieur Barbu

Bar, Greek

Monsieur Barbu is a type of place all neighborhoods need. Perfect for drinks, snacks, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this all-day bar and restaurant serves top-notch burgers, delicious pasta (the tomato, feta cheese, and thyme pasta is simple yet a delight), and mouthwatering cocktails. Come by for lunch and you can be sure that you will end up having dinner there as well – no one will judge you.

6. Mikri Venetia

Mikri Venetia

Located in one of Koukaki’s pedestrian streets, Mikri Venetia (Small Venice) is a modern taverna/mezodopoleio. Characterized by modern Greek cuisine, Mikri Venetia serves a set menu, as well as daily dishes. The calamari risotto served with zucchini and basil is particularly tasty, while the cod ‘meatballs’ are a must-try. If the weather allows it, make sure to sit outside and watch the children play in front of the terrace. Here’s to a traditional taste of Athens.

Mikri Venetia, G. Olympiou 15, Athens, Greece, +30 21 3025 9158

http://instagram.com/p/XlqdJMPOdn/?taken-by=mikrivenetia

7. Kalamaki Bar

Restaurant, Greek

Kalamaki Bar is where you can get your fill of souvlaki, grilled meats (lamb, beef, chicken) on a stick served with pita bread. But vegetarians are welcome too with options such as halloumi cheese and portobello mushrooms on sticks, as well as homemade fries and a wide variety of fresh salads. This modern Greek joint is a refreshing alternative to the usual greasy souvlaki places.

8. Indian Chef

Restaurant, Indian

While this Indian restaurant may not technically be in Koukaki, it is so good that it deserves a spot on this list. Considered by many Indian tourists and locals as one of the most authentic Indian eateries in Athens, Indian Chef is conveniently located near Plaka with Hadrian’s Gate park nearby. The place serves traditional Indian dishes (including lamb korma and chicken madras) alongside mild and non-spicy options. Make sure to check out Indian Chef if you are in the area.

9. Rincon Mexicano

Rincon Mexicano

Don’t head to Rincon Mexicano if you are expecting Tex-Mex food. Rincon Mexicano serves real, traditional Mexican flavors. Owner and main chef Señora Ines prepares and cooks tamales from the heart as well as a plethora of small dishes. And though the menu may be limited in choice, it is definitely full of flavors – the chili con carne is spicy and tasty. They also make a mean margarita.

Rincon Mexicano, Dimitrakopoulou 5, Athens, Greece, +30 69 0544 0417

http://instagram.com/p/BEZQMDjsz_H/

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.