Aerides Plaka Restaurant — Restaurant in Athens

I was pleasantly surprised to know that they were open on New Year’s Day, and so we went. But it was a bad meal to start the year.

Food was good, just like many typical Greek taverns. But the exceptionally poor service blows up the entire experience.

The food was served fast enough (though we weren’t in a rush). But as I asked for something as simple as an extra order of coke zero: 1) The servers were all over the place, so the first one available to call was the manager, who told us to “Call the waiter.” Translated as: It’s not my job; 2) When we finally got the attention of the server, the order did not arrive at all; 3) Oh, we also ordered dessert. Guess what — it didn’t come.

We had to ask for the bill thrice — did not come! I had to compute everything and give them the exact amount. I made it a point to give nothing more than the exact amount because we heard the waiters asking other customers for a tip! And for what — that kind of service.

As we left, we gave the Manager feedback about how our unpleasant experience. He then gives us a litany of reasons — servers got sick, someone supposedly got into an accident. Then he tells us to read the reviews on how good their place is. Which we did— and why we came in the first place.

The thing is: 1) There’s really a disconnect between the reviews and the actual experience, which the restaurant blithely ignores; and 2) At the end of the day, if you are in the service industry, it’s professionalism and customer service that sets apart the professionals from the amateurs.

I have been to other places in Athens with better food, better prices, and better service — and they are worth your...

Aerides Plaka Restaurant is hands down our favorite place to eat traditional Greek food in all of Athens!! As you enter a side street and realize you're headed to a lovely local place, that isn't a normal touristy restaurant, your heart will begin to become excited even more as you read their menu. My sweetheart and I have visited this place daily and each time we're welcomed as family from all of their amazing staff and even their kind owner. First and foremost, the flavors and the love that Aerides Plaka Restaurant puts into their food is timeless and you will forever remember their dishes as if you were coming home to a Greek grandma and grandpa's house for dinner. Some of my favorite dishes are their Greek salad, tzatziki, fried cod, dolmades, zucchini fritters, grilled octopus, meatballs and any of their daily traditional casseroles. After eating their fried cod with a side of their "garlic sauce" which is a tasty mixture of creamed potatoes and garlic, I had the urge to ask for what I now know to be my favorite dish of lamb chops and garlic sauce!!! It's divine beyond words and just maybe, they will create this dish for you too, substituting their normal delicious smashed and fried potatoes with the garlic sauce. Regardless, try everything because the menu, the staff, their love for people and food, plus the romantic ambience of the area will forever give you the very best memories of Athens....

If you're looking for a truly authentic dining experience in a beautiful, historic neighborhood, then look no further than this small plates restaurant. This gem of a restaurant is tucked away in a charming corner of the neighborhood, and from the moment you step foot, you'll feel like you've been transported to a different time and place.

The decor is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and cozy marble tables. The atmosphere is bustling, yet intimate, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. But what really sets this restaurant apart is the food.

The menu is full of delicious small plates that are perfect for sharing. From the savory meatballs to the crispy calamari, each dish is packed with flavor and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The waiter's recommendations were spot on - he had an incredible knowledge of the menu and knew exactly what to suggest for our preferences.

Service was exceptional, from the moment we sat down, they made us feel like VIPs, and their attention to detail and friendly demeanor were truly remarkable.

Overall, if you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience in a beautiful, historic neighborhood, then this small plates resto is an absolute must-visit. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the service...