Just Back from Athens: Locals’ Favorite Budget Eats (No Tourist Traps!

Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins—it’s a foodie paradise with shockingly low prices (even for Europe!). I stayed 3 nights and ate my way through the city—here’s my blood, sweat, and souvlaki guide to where locals actually dine! 📍 Karamanlidika 🏆 The OG Deli Experience Freebies: Smoked ham + heavenly Greek yogurt (carrot dip was too sweet for me). Must-Order: Eggplant salad, beef-potato stew, baked eggs in tomato sauce. 💰 €10-15/person | Solid flavors but not life-changing. 📍 Delicious Souvlaki 🔥 Meat Mountain Alert Google 4.9⭐ | 15 skewers for 2 people? We became a tourist attraction. Pro tip: Locals order 1-2 skewers + free pita/fries. We barely finished 11! Best Bite: Pork skewers > chicken > lamb (kebab style). 💰 €2/skewer | Leftovers = perfect plane snacks! 📍 Street Souvlaki 🌯 Smaller Skewers, Bigger Variety Crowd: Mix of tourists and Athenians. Winner: Lamb skewers + crispy flatbread. 💰 €5-10/person | Flavor-packed but less filling. 📍 Opos Palia 🐙 Seafood? Meh. Vibes? Yes. Heads up: Staff runs on "Greek time" (opened 1hr late). Skip: Overcooked octopus, bland fried squid. Try: Eggplant salad + traditional stews. 💰 €15-20/person | Go for the atmosphere, not the food. 🚫 Avoid These ❌ Iceroll: Coconut milk rolls = sugary disaster (€7). ❌ Chatime: Overpriced sweetness (€5 for mediocre bubble tea). 🏨 Hotel MVP: Moxy Athens 🌟 UNREAL breakfast buffet (outshone restaurants!) Free upgrade + breakfast for Marriott Platinum members. Highlights: 4 types of Greek yogurt, fresh-baked sesame rings, barista coffee. Location: Central + modern. A steal at €100+/night. Why Athens Wins Zero hidden fees: No "cover charge" scams! Portion sizes: Waiters fear you’ll starve. Flavor bridges: Spices feel oddly familiar (hello, Chinese tastebuds!). #AthensEats #GreekFoodie #BudgetTravelHacks #SouvlakiOverload #ArchitectureAndGyros