The Best Seafood Tavernas in the Athenian Riviera

Welcome to a mouthwatering journey along the coast of the Athenian Riviera, where the sea’s breeze and the scenic views invite you to taste Greece’s culinary treasures – without leaving Athens. This guide lists some of the best seafood tavernas located in the southern part of Athens, each offering a unique experience that combines great food, warm hospitality, and unique settings. Let’s discover our tried and tested selection of seafood tavernas in the Athenian Riviera.

Theodoros and Eleni in Legrena

This tavern is located a little further out from the most popular areas of the Athenian Riviera, but I promise the trip is worth it. You can combine your visit to the Temple of Poseidon or a day at the beach, with lunch or dinner at Theodoros and Eleni. Late lunch is even better. Despite its non-seaside location, the restaurant has gained a reputation for its unique and flavorful seafood dishes. I used to come here with my parents when I was a kid back in the early 90s, and to this day Theodoros and Eleni is a must-visit taverna for me. 

A standout on their menu is the steamed mussels with feta served in a big pot, you can also order the half-portion. If you are a fan of mussels you will love this dish! Another favorite is the shrimp saganaki cooked in a creamy feta cheese sauce, perfect for bread-dipping. The menu offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood options, all generously portioned and sourced from the nearby Lavrio area.

No seaside meal feels quite complete without a refreshing drink to accompany the flavors of the sea. A chilled glass of ouzo, with its anise-flavored aroma, is the perfect companion to seafood dishes. The crisp, slightly sweet taste of ouzo enhances the natural saltiness of seafood, bringing out the delicate flavors in each bite, making every meal a more authentic and enjoyable Greek dining experience. 

Theodoros and Eleni have a great selection of ouzo and tsipouro brands on display, you can ask them to recommend the one that pairs the best with your meal. 

Ilias Tavern in Sounio

Travel a little further to Sounio, where Ilias Tavern stands proudly against the backdrop of the majestic Temple of Poseidon. After a day of exploring ancient ruins, there’s no better place to relax than this rustic taverna, known for its excellent seafood selections and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Grab a swimsuit and towel, and enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach located right in front of the taverna. 

 The menu features a selection of fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, fresh sea bass and steamed mussels. Each dish is prepared with a simplicity that highlights the natural flavors. This is a great place to catch a sunset that rivals the beauty of the gods.

Zesti Gonia in Koropi 

Nestled in a residential area of Koropi, Zesti Gonia (cozy corner) offers a cozy retreat cherished by locals for its traditional seafood.

Founded by Mr Michalis and his wife Labrini, who once ran a restaurant near New York’s Grand Central Station in the ’80s, the taverna embodies the culinary spirit of Mr Michalis’ native Ikaria, a region known for its healthful living. Today, their daughter Despina continues the family legacy with the help of her parents, maintaining the simple yet welcoming ambiance where guests can enjoy some of the finest seafood in the area.

Dining at Zesti Gonia feels like joining a meal with friends, thanks to its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The taverna features a quaint outdoor seating area with a handful of tables, perfect for enjoying the fresh air, and a cozy indoor dining space that’s intimate and inviting.

This setting creates an ideal environment for a leisurely meal enjoyed in good company. It’s a simple place with good prices and fantastic seafood. It’s been my favorite for many years. 

Vasilis Fish Tavern in Palea Fokeia 

Vasilis Tavern in Palea Fokeia is known for its friendly staff and the casual, welcoming atmosphere. This simple tavern offers great sea views perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Known for their generous servings and the quality of their catch, try their seafood spaghetti or a selection of different seafood for a taste of everything the Aegean has to offer.

 

Agkira Taverna in Lavrio

3 Alexandrou Andrea, Lavrio

Tucked away on one of the side streets in the heart of the Lavrio Fish market, Agkira which translates as the anchor is a simple yet wonderful taverna serving fresh catch of the day along with staple Greek appetizers. The portions are generous and the prices are good value for money. We loved their calamari (fried squid, pictured above). 

Aperanto Galazio in Varkiza 

Perched on the coast of Varkiza, Aperanto Galazio, meaning ‘Infinite Blue,’ offers a dining experience that mirrors the expansive sea it overlooks.

Here, you can savor dishes like shrimp saganaki cooked in a rich tomato and feta sauce, alongside grilled shrimp and marinated anchovies. This experience is further enhanced by a refined wine list, which also includes select French labels, pairing beautifully with the salty breeze and the panoramic sea views.

This is a great place to watch fireworks in the summer, as there are regular weddings taking place nearby. Aperanto Galazio truly embodies beachfront dining, as it allows guests to dine with their toes in the sand, with tables set directly on the beach.

Each taverna along the Athenian Riviera offers a unique window into the heart of Greek seafood cuisine, framed by spectacular views and enriched by centuries of culinary tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious foodie, these tavernas promise an unforgettable experience, combining the best of the sea with the soul of Greece.

So, next time you find yourself longing for the salt air and a relaxed ambiance, let the best seafood tavernas in the Athenian Riviera be your guide to culinary excellence and cultural immersion. Bon appétit, or as the Greeks say, kali orexi!