To truly live Athens, you have to have a local’s insight. That’s where I come in. ’ve been a travel and food journalist for 15 years (Conde Nast Traveller, Lonely Planet, The Guardian, The Sunday Times) but this list will NEVER make it into the publications I write for. It’s the list I keep for friends so please, keep it a secret!

I’ve been collating the restaurants on this list for the best part of twenty years and I am so happy to finally have distilled it into a digestible guide.

It’s true that parts of Athens are chaotic, loud and very tourist-heavy but our food is unrivalled. My aim with this 17-page guide is to show you the beautiful, energetic and welcoming city that I have made my home and to invite you to dine on the best that Athens has to offer (46 spots for you to taste your way around!). I want this guide to be akin to me holding your hand and treating you to a lunch or dinner with me at all my favourite places.

I offer an expanse of options for varying budgets, without making the choices overwhelming. To help you plan your own itinerary, I’ve divided my tips into sections, The Taverna, The Kafeneion, New Wave Restaurants and Seafood.

Kali Oreksi!