Ατίταμος — Restaurant in Athens

Review: Traditional Greek Dining in the Heart of Exarchia

Tucked into the vibrant and politically charged neighbourhood of Exarchia, this traditional Greek taverna offers a mixed first impression but ultimately delivers a solid culinary experience.

First Impressions

Upon entering, my partner (a local Greek) and I (Catalan) were greeted with a friendly “hello” instead of the expected “yasas”. That small detail made us wonder if the place catered primarily to tourists, especially given the noticeable number of foreign patrons. However, any doubts about authenticity started to fade as the meal progressed.

The Food

The menu leaned into familiar Greek staples but with some interesting touches. We ordered:

Kolokithokeftedes (Courgette fritters) – These came with an unexpected twist: they had peppers in the mix. While I found the addition a bit odd and didn’t enjoy it, my partner appreciated the variation and thought it added a nice kick. It’s worth trying if you’re open to a reinterpretation of the classic.

Roka Parmezan Salad – Fresh, well-balanced, and generous with the parmesan shavings. It complemented the heavier dishes nicely.

Sikoti (Liver) – A real highlight. This dish is increasingly rare in many tavernas, and theirs was rich, flavourful, and cooked just right. It’s a must-try for those looking to explore beyond the typical souvlaki or moussaka.

Service and Atmosphere

Service was warm, attentive, and efficient throughout. Despite our early impression, the staff were knowledgeable and eager to ensure a pleasant experience. The decor was traditionally Greek – whitewashed elements, rustic wooden furniture, and retro ornaments – but everything was clean and well maintained. It felt lived-in without being run-down.

Final Thoughts

While it may seem touristic at first glance, this Exarchia spot proves itself with honest, quality food and authentic dishes not found everywhere else. A great choice if you’re in the area and want something traditional with a few surprises. Just don’t be put off by the initial...

I’m in Athens for the first time with my boyfriend and since we’re staying in the Exarcheia area we came to Atitamos for our first dinner. There was a 10min wait because the place was busy at 7pm but we sat on the small seats outside and had a beer. The waiters were very friendly and professional. We got a table inside and I ordered the zucchini croquettes as a starter. They were crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside and nicely seasoned and came served with a yogurt dip. Our waiter also brought lovely soft brown bread to the table at no additional charge and a jug of water. We ordered a carafe of house wine which was a dry Muscat of Alexandria, very floral and a nice change to the neutral house wines we are used to. A half litre jug is just 5 euros. I ordered the Greek salad for main and it was fresh, crunchy and well-seasoned with delicious large chunks of feta cheese. My boyfriend ordered the Greek kebab which satisfied his meat cravings. I really think everything on the menu would be fantastic. Just when we thought we were in taverna heaven, they upped their game even more and appeared two tasty little morsels of baklava which both my boyfriend and I decided were the most delicious things we had ever tasted. I’m sure that can’t be the case but anyway they were fantastic... and complimentary.

2 large beers, 2 starters, 2 mains, half litre of white wine (plus complimentary water, bread and baklava) 35 euros

If you want unpretentious Greek food done well at a great price in a cosy atmosphere served by professional thoughtful people, then don’t miss this place. I wish them all the success.

Just one more comment; some people mentioned the local area is a bit dodgy but we are staying here and so far I think the Exarcheia area is interesting and incredibly beautiful in parts. It reminds me a lot of Lavapies in Madrid or areas of...

If you are near here, you should consider yourself lucky. I sure did. We ate here almost once every day while we visited Greece. Lunch or dinner, either way you will taste the best of Greece. I have lots of pictures to show. They are not from the same day. Some of the highlight dishes: Starter (grilled vegetables : if you like vegetables this is the one. Hot off the grill I drizzle olive oil and pinch of salt and pepper... Amazing!)

Salad (green salad with manouri: man this salad I can eat 2 plates. The cheese is grilled to perfection and the greens and the dressing is simple, but once you reach to the button and take a bite of their homemade croutons... Man oh man it's like heaven!)

Main dishes ( if you are a meat lover like me and not sure what meat you like to try here, I suggest you get the meat platter for 2. Warning its a big plate, but mouth watering. I squeeze the lemon on most of the meat. Just so juicy and delicious! I suggest the yellow sauce for the chicken and everything else with their homemade tzatziki sauce.)

Lets move on to the best which I saved to tell you last. If you are a seafood lover and I mean real seafood lover who is not afraid to pick the bones off the fish with your mouth, you must try their grilled sea bream. Very fresh and soft. Their shrimp is very tasty.

I never ordered any dessert because at the end they give you a small but sweet and mouth watering baklava.

Guess what, the price is very reasonable, too. Just take a look at their menu I have added on here.

Make sure to ask them for their specials.

Every day is different.

I hope...