Linou Soumpasis is a casual and contemporary taverna with a dedication to delicious dishes made with organic ingredients. Here it is all about back to the basics: steel tables, simple glassware, silver candles and produce-driven food. The result? One of our go-to spots for dinner in Athens. 

Pioneering the first wave of Athens’ new gastronomy was Linou Soumpasis & Sia on Psyrri’s Melanthiou Street. An idea conceived by friends Myrsini and George, the duo finally opened their restaurant-come-candle shop at the end of 2021 – complete with minimal white interiors, toughened up with studded aluminium tables and chairs, a St John-style nose-to-tail approach and a natural, Greek-focused wine list. Chef Lukas Mailer’s changing menu of (mostly) fish and meat uses simple Greek ingredients and flavours that surprise: think raw shrimp with roasted brussels sprout leaves and fried cod collars with aioli.

With its retro 1970s aesthetic and innovative flavours, Zigoala is the creation of Konstantino Dagritzikos – a curator, artist and DJ who grew up in the area – alongside the Greek Palestinian chef Vasilis Chaman, who is also behind Estet Cafe in Thessaloniki. The wine list by Heteroclito – the forerunner of Athens’ natural wine scene – is on point, as are the playlists. 

A hip wine bar in Monastriki, Wine is Fine is where you will find the cool kids in town. A frequently changing wine list with funky ones from all over. A small menu of bites to nibble on while you chat, people watch, and drink.