Souvlaki Kostas — Restaurant in Athens

In the bustling cityscape of Athens, where ancient architecture meets contemporary hustle, there exists a hidden culinary jewel by the name of Kostas. Tucked away discreetly in a narrow alleyway, this modest establishment boasts what many contend to be the finest Souvlaki Pita in the city, if not the entire nation.

The magic of Kostas doesn’t rely on elaborate presentations or intricate culinary techniques. Instead, it champions simplicity, an ode to the traditional way of Athenian cooking. Each bite of the Souvlaki Pita unveils layers of taste – the tenderness of meticulously chosen meat, the freshness of tomatoes and onions, and a hint of parsley, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory ensemble. But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this delectable dish is the yogurt – piquant and creamy, acting as the perfect binding agent for the multitude of flavors encapsulated in each bite.

Yet, while the food at Kostas is undeniably its crown jewel, the experience of dining here offers an added dimension. The wait, often extending longer than most places, becomes a testament to the eatery’s popularity and commitment to quality. First-time visitors might be caught off guard as they see locals and delivery drivers receive their orders with swift precision, a nod to Kostas’ unwavering loyalty to its regular clientele.

This priority system, rather than being a point of contention, becomes an initiation of sorts. As the unacquainted wait, they bear witness to the theatre of Athenian street food: the sizzle of meat on the grill, the rhythmic chopping of fresh vegetables, and the banter between the chefs and their familiar customers. The culmination of this sensory journey is the moment the Souvlaki Pita is finally in hand, making the wait – no matter how long – unequivocally worthwhile.

In an age of instant gratification and mass-produced food chains, Kostas stands as a beacon of traditional culinary artistry. It serves not just as a restaurant, but as a reminder of the simple pleasures derived from patience, quality ingredients, and a passion for one's craft. And for those fortunate enough to stumble upon this Athenian treasure, the experience, much like the taste of its famed Souvlaki Pita, lingers long after...

This was hands down the best souvlaki I have ever had. Being a 40-something Greek, I have grown up to that kind of street food and, although I do not claim to be an expert, I can tell the difference between a good one, a mediocre one and a bad one. The day I went to Kostas, the queue was long (I waited patiently for more than 20 minutes) but it gave me the chance to see the way he works. Everything is prepared just right. The pita bread is neither too soft nor too crispy. The meat is well grilled. The yogurt sauce is placed on the meat with a fork in a way that every bite has some, and by some I mean just the right quantity. Not much, not too little thus creating the perfect bite every time. The taste was superb, absolutely superb. I left and I was thinking that part of Kostas putting the yogurt sauce on the skewer: he could have put some more and charge an extra 5 or 10 cents on the price. But it wouldn't be as good! So there was no need for that. That little detail made all the difference. I hope you have a good time. And be patient. The queue may be long but it's...

The Best Souvlaki in Athens: Kostas

As soon as you enter, on the left side, a razor-sharp brother with no hair is cooking the meat on the grill. A single skewer of meat goes inside the souvlakis served between pita bread. This meat can be beef or pork, depending on preference. When we went there, the price of pork souvlakis was 3.20 Euros, and the cost of beef souvlakis was 3.40 Euros. But no matter how you look at it, it is evident that they all have a standard. It is also apparent that you will get ideal street food for that price.

Anyway, sir, these meat skewers are placed on top of the heated pita bread, and of course, they are topped with all the trimmings. The souvlaki is best when you add chopped red onions, tomatoes, strained yogurt, and spices to your skewers. Squeeze a little lemon on top if you wish, and enjoy.

And that's it! But it is a great flavor. You will not be complete with just one if you are hungry. However, a human can make it through a snack with just one souvlaki. I wish we had souvlaki in Turkey. Kostas should open a branch here,...