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The idea of ‘brunching’ in Athens is a relatively new one. Food is an integral part of Greek culture, yet the concept of ‘breakfast’ has never been a vital part of the Greek diet. A simple coffee and maybe a fresh pastry from the local bakery has been the standard for many years, all until the term ‘brunch’ was introduced.
The idea of a ‘later breakfast’ seemed to sit well with most as it covers a time gap that fits with the general preference to combine a late morning or afternoon coffee with something edible to ‘keep them going’ until the main meal of the day.
After the economic crisis, a lot of coffee shop owners decided to add a branch menu in their catalogue and it soon became a daily ‘tradition’ for Greeks, especially among the youth.
There are hundreds of brunch spots with quality coffee all over Athens but in this article, I wish to suggest some of my personal favourite spots that visitors can try and easily access as they are all located in the heart of Athens and are easily accessible and definitely worth visiting!
Written by Savina Skourmalla on 09-04-2024
Best Brunch Places in Athens – Bel Ray
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Very close to the Acropolis Museum, Koukaki is a local fave spot with an alternative and hip vibe that is perfect for a break between or after work.
Located in this artsy district, you will find a super stylish coffee shop that combines good coffee and an even better brunch menu. Bel Ray is usually buzzing with people but at the same time, its friendly and warm atmosphere is perfect for those that just wish to work quietly on their laptop.
Before Bel Ray came to life, the place used to be a repair shop and its industrial look and decoration with the high ceilings and large windows was infused in the coffee shop’s character.
This original character that is friendly and inviting yet not ‘wannabe’ makes Bel Ray a ‘steki’ which in Greek means someone’s favourite hang out spot.
The brunch menu includes favourite choices like Croque Madame and scrambled eggs with a twist but you can also find sweet surprises like brownies or New York cheesecake.
The high quality coffee and brunch in combination with the vibe and location of Bel Ray makes it the perfect place to sit back and relax away from the hustle of the city.
My suggestion is avoiding the Greek ‘brunch rush hour’ or getting there early in order to ensure a table as it can be very busy even on weekdays.
Location: Falirou 88, Koukaki,Athens
Opening hours: 9AM – 2AM
Website: https://belraybar.gr/
Best Brunch Places in Athens – Dope Roasting
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If you love coffee and most importantly, if you know your coffee, then Dope Roasting is just the right place for you. Located at a short distance walk from Monastiraki station, Dope Roasting is a hub for harmonious blends and unique brews that can satisfy even the most demanding coffee lover. Situated in a beautiful neoclassical building, this self proclaimed ‘espresso bar’ offers two levels of simple rustic architecture and charming scents.
The coffee options include single origin bean roasts, cold brews and espresso based drinks that are prepared in a beautiful vintage E71 machine. As the name says, Dope roasting uses their own coffee beans and blends therefore you can buy it in store.
The food menu is designed to perfectly pair your coffee choice and there is a variety of pastries and sandwiches to choose from which makes Dope Roasting the perfect brunch spot for anyone who is looking for a small break between busy schedules that’s both accessible and worthy.
You can choose between sitting outside in the square when the weather is nice but you can also enjoy your brunch upstairs in the quiet lofty area that’s also perfect for working on your laptop.
Location: Vissis 25, Athina
Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM
Website: https://shop.doperoasting.co/
Best Brunch Places in Athens – Beauty Killed the Beast
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Just under the eye of the Acropolis, in the neighbourhood of Kerameikos, a small ‘wild’ jewel is hidden away in another Neoclassical building. Beauty Killed the Beast is an instagrammable area that combines the ‘damaged’ beauty of the old building with modern designs that underline the vintage vibe of the area and a unique, hidden ‘underground’ jungle, which is visible through the glass floor.
Aside from the unique architecture, the menu of Beauty Killed the Beast is understandably the talk of the town as it is designed by the famous food blogger Gabriel Nikolaidis, better known as @coolartisan.
Forget about scrambled eggs or Croque Monsieurs and get ready to delve into a unique brunching experience that includes the local brunch faves with a twist as well as fresh new food-loving ideas. Some of the unique plates you can check out are the savoury rainbow pancakes, the vegan ‘golden latte’ and the apple crumble cheesecake.
The comfortable and warm atmosphere in combination with the well thought menu offered in Beauty Killed the Beast guarantees a high quality brunching experience, only a breath away from the beating heart of the city.
Location: Paramithias 14, Athina
Opening hours: 11AM – 2AM
Website: –
Best Brunch Places in Athens – Zampano
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Zampano is the main character of Federico Fellini’s movie ‘La strada’ and the one that gave the circus-inspired inspiration to this hostel in Prissi theatre district. On the rooftop of this wonderful concept hostel you will find a restaurant with a fantastic view and an all day menu that is designed by, wait for it, Gabriel Nikolaidis! The ‘cool artisan’ behind Beauty and the Beast brings a quirky menu based on Greek tastes and ingredients in order to create unique dishes that make Zampano a favourite local meeting point for Sunday brunch.
Make sure to check out the delicious avocado toast, the potato waffles with chicken nuggets as well as the homemade spinach pie and pizza combo!
What’s unique about this place is that while enjoying your Sunday coffee and brunch you will be able to be entertained by some live tunes by Manouchedrome who will bring a jazzy gypsy vibe to your morning.
Location: Sarri 18, Athina
Opening hours: 8:30AM – 12AM
Website: https://zampano.gr/
Best Brunch Places in Athens – The makers
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‘The Makers’ is a concept coffee and brunch spot that was born during the time of the pandemic and it quickly acquired dedicated fans and population.
The open plan design and the soft white light gives this small yet tasteful place character and a unique northern european vibe. The interior is minimal, with a big central table and lots of artisan accessories like t-shirts and aprons around the shop, making ‘The makers’ a great place to meet friends and chat over a nice coffee and a healthy brunch.
There are numerous savoury and sweet options to choose from among which are the popular spinach crepe with egg, greek cheese and herbs, the acai bowl with blueberries, peanut butter, coconut flakes and oat. The most instagrammable plate is definitely the cheesecake french waffle that is served with a light yoghurt mouse, red berries and maple syrup. There are plenty vegetarian and vegan options as well, alla made with carefully selected local ingredients and love.
Location: Praxitelous 37, Athina
Opening hours: 8:30AM – 8PM
Website: https://www.themakersathens.gr/
One simple google search will show you hundreds of amazing little coffee shops and brunch places so there is definitely more to choose from. In this article I’ve tried narrowing down some of my favourite spots that are easily accessible from and to the city centre.
If you are an avid bruncher and coffee lover, these suggestions should definitely be on your list next time you visit Athens!
If you wish to enjoy and explore a more complete experience around Greek cuisine in a fun and exciting way then you can also check out our Private Bike+Food tour, a unique tour that combines sightseeing around Athens while enjoying some local favourite street food options!
