O Lefteris Athens
Dad-approved souvlaki
So there are two souvlaki restaurants called Lefteris in this part of Athens: one in Kallithea (this one) and another one in Nea Smyrni. Both have been around for the better part of a century, both serve souvlaki the real traditional way, the way our fathers and grandfathers prefer it (no gyros, just meat skewers or kebab - no fries or tzatziki, just tomato, onion and maybe parsley), and, apparently, these two Lefterises have nothing to do with each other.
My mother's partner took us out here for his birthday. As a vegetarian, there was very little for me on the menu, apart from fresh fries and yogurt and pathetic pitas with just onion and tomato in them. But as it happens, sometimes I use my flexitarian trump card to get away from the looks of "hah, we knew you were just a pretendarian" when I decide to try some meat on a special occurrence. Marilena gave me some of hers for me to try, just for me to satisfy my FOMO. And it was so good, I just had to order one for myself. I know. I'm supposed to be the vegetarian/vegan Spotter. Sorry. Here's a great alternative if you want vegetarian souvlaki.
In my (lousy) defense, it was just one, so not so much planetary harm was done. If you're coming here, make sure you order at least two, as they're on the smaller side. And enjoy the real neighborhood vibe, not far from SNFCC.
Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Athens
Ktistakis
Loukoumades from heaven
Ktistakis is hidden in the streets around Omonoia Square but deserves every moment you will spend searching for it. It makes only one thing: delicious little loukoumades.
by
Antonis
Tsapepas
Lefteris o Politis
Simply delicious souvlaki
A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
by
Antonis
Tsapepas
Mrs Dalloway's
You can buy yourself flowers
The flower bouquets are naturally dried and painted with water-soluble, non-toxic colors. The dried flowers can decorate a space for 1 to 2 years!
by
Asimina
Mitrothanasi
Namaste
A genuine Indian experience
Namaste presents classic Indian cuisine enriched with the dishes of the unique mountain country of Nepal and the flavours are authentic and refined!
by
Antonis
Tsapepas
Au Revoir
Classic and unique
"Au Revoir" is, simply put, the oldest bar in Athens. It opened in 1958 and has been serving classic drinks since then. Even Frank Sinatra paid a visit.
by
Andreas
Papadopoulos
FOOD Str
Quality burgers in Monastiraki
"FOOD Str" in the center of Athens is my spot of choice when I'm out late drinking and need a cheap (vegetarian!) burger or some fish and chips!
by
Dimitris
Hall
Babouras
Feel the buzz of Petralona
"Babouras" Athens is a cafe/bar in Petralona that combines the old with the new. My tip would be to bring your camera with you - the light's very pretty.
by
Dimitris
Hall
Eugenides Digital Planetarium
Across the universe
The "Eugenides Digital Planetarium" (est. 2003) in Athens is a fantastic place to get to enjoy an educational spectacle! I have so many memories from here.
by
Dimitris
Hall
Rema Pikrodafnis
Athenian wilderness
"Rema Pikrodafnis" is one of the few relatively untouched streams in Athens. I love this seemingly abandoned part of it, a symbol of what Greece really is.
by
Dimitris
Hall
Alsos Neas Smyrnis
Your lovely neighbourhood park
"Alsos Neas Smyrnis" in Athens is my neighborhood park where I go to run. It's an ideal place to relax and enjoy a low-key Athenian park setting.
by
Dimitris
Hall
Homesick
Retro mode in Eksarcheia
"Homesick" Athens is my go-to cafe/bar in Eksarheia when I want some retro decoration and a nice beer with hearty freebies. Don't miss talking to the owner!
by
Dimitris
Hall
Mousiko Kafeneio
The neighbourhood bar
It's at the perfect location, on a pedestrian zone close to this Athens' neighborhood, Nea Smyrni, central square, playing music and throwing parties.
by
Dimitris
Hall
Heading to Athens?
263 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Athens?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 263 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Athens
Our team loves Athens
Get to know our other Spotters from Athens
As featured on:
