Lefteris O Politis (est. 1951) — Restaurant in Athens

In hindsight, it was probably not the best idea to try and sample the famous souvlaki here at peak-lunchtime (2pm) on a weekday (Wed) as it was overrun by staff and big orders from the surrounding businesses as well as a large number of tourists. The queuing was long as a result (~40min), which meant I had plenty of time to mull whether there was any way I would find the experience of tasting this much-vaunted souvlaki worth the wait. By the time I got my order I was extremely skeptical, but, as it turns out, I was surprised to find myself thinking that 'yes, it is very different to any other souvlaki I have had' and probably worth the wait.

I sampled a really super product with a unique taste and texture. The pita was both crispy and super fluffy and soft, almost like a crispy bao, the meat putty soft and with a wonderful beefy taste that indicates to me a really good selection of cuts to make it, the onions red and sweet with a hint of parsley for freshness and the tomato slices sweet and juicy. The only other addition is a generous sprinkling of spicy red pepper that highlights all the other tastes perfectly ( I asked for no salt as I am on a reduced sodium diet). There is no tzatziki or other fillings here, intentionally, in order to highlight the simple tastes and quality of the main ingredients.

This place has been voted the winner of the best souvlaki in Athens for a number of years by the food writers in the Greek newspaper equivalent of the Times in the UK . Unfortunately, that means that it is unlikely one will be able to sample this super souvlaki without a considerable and stoic wait, but, surprisingly, even to myself, I think it is worth it. So, brave the queues, the less than salubrious part of Athens with junkies strewn along the pavements in various stages of unconsciousness, to get there and try out a souvlaki that is different from anything else you will have sampled...

The food at this restaurant is truly extraordinary, arguably the greatest in Athens. Each dish is a culinary masterpiece, showcasing a perfect balance of meaty, garlicky, and spicy flavors that leave your taste buds craving and wanting more. The quality and taste are consistently exceptional, making every meal a delightful experience. In addition to the outstanding food, the service is impeccable. The staff is attentive, friendly, and dedicated to ensuring that your dining experience is memorable.

The atmosphere of the restaurant further enhances the overall experience. It is warm and inviting, with a lively ambiance that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. However, it is important to note that the restaurant is very popular, and it is common for there to be a lot of people dining in. This popularity speaks to the quality of the food and service, but it can also mean that the restaurant gets quite busy.

For those who prefer a quieter dining experience, I highly recommend opting for delivery. The delivery service is efficient and ensures that the food arrives hot and fresh, allowing you to enjoy the same extraordinary flavors in the comfort of your own home. Despite the potential for crowds, I still highly suggest dining in at least once to fully experience the ambiance and service firsthand. This restaurant is a true gem in Athens, offering a remarkable dining experience that is not...

After spending 2 weeks around various cities in Greece, I can say without doubt this is the best meal I had on my trip… to be honest, the best meal I’ve had in all of 2024 as a seasoned foodie and tourist. I’ve eaten at fancy, near Michelin star restaurants in Santorini and hole-in-the wall mom and pop joints. Lefteris O Politis falls into the latter realm. It’s off of the beaten path of the touristic areas and the location may be off-putting to bougie tourists. The restaurant is no frills. €2.30 for the most phenomenal piece of meat you’ll ever put into your mouth, besides that of the love of your life. Even then it’s debatable. I’ve never had a meal that nearly brought me to tears for its perfection. The souvlaki itself is properly seasoned, moist and juicy, and melts away with each chew. The pita, whilst being cooked, absorbs the juices and aromas of the beef. The onions, parsley, and tomatoes, meld together to bring forth a fresh and refreshing zing to each bite. I truly entered nirvana eating this. After 73 years, Lefteris O Politis has certainly mastered their craft. This is an edible piece of art you must consume...