Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, Athenia Restaurant has become a beacon for culinary enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of the Mediterranean. Its menu is a tapestry of tradition and innovation, woven together by a passionate team committed to excellence.
At Athenia, every dish tells a story, blending classic flavors with contemporary twists that reflect both the spirit of Athens and the diversity of its guests. Stepping into the warm, inviting space, diners are greeted with the tantalizing aromas of slow-roasted meats, fresh herbs, and just-baked breads that evoke images of seaside markets and bustling Greek tavernas.
The menu, thoughtfully curated, beckons both adventurous eaters and those seeking comfort in familiar favorites.
More than a restaurant, Athenia is an experience. The menu reflects a philosophy rooted in hospitality, quality ingredients, and a deep respect for culinary heritage.
Each section is meticulously crafted to offer something unique—whether it’s a starter meant for sharing, a main course steeped in centuries-old tradition, or a dessert that delights the senses. As you explore the Athenia Restaurant Menu, you’ll discover much more than food: you’ll uncover a journey that celebrates both the old and the new, inviting every guest to share in a feast of flavors, stories, and memories.
Appetizers: The Art of the Greek Mezze
Athenia’s approach to appetizers is inspired by the Greek tradition of mezze—small, flavorful plates designed to be shared among friends and family. These starters set the tone for the meal, introducing diners to vibrant flavors and the restaurant’s commitment to freshness.
The mezze experience at Athenia is as much about the joy of sharing as it is about the taste itself.
Diners can expect a range of classic and inventive options, each carefully prepared with the finest ingredients. House-made dips, fresh seafood, and savory pastries dominate this section, offering a taste of the Mediterranean coastline.
Every plate arrives with a flourish, encouraging conversation and connection.
The mezze tradition is about more than food; it’s about hospitality and togetherness. At Athenia, appetizers are crafted to evoke the comforting feeling of a Greek home, where guests are welcomed as family and every meal is a celebration.
- Tzatziki – Creamy Greek yogurt whipped with cucumber, garlic, and dill, served with warm pita.
- Dolmades – Grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice, finished with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Saganaki – Pan-seared kefalograviera cheese, flambéed tableside for a dramatic presentation.
- Octopus Carpaccio – Thinly sliced, citrus-marinated octopus with capers and microgreens.
“At Athenia, mezze isn’t just an appetizer—it’s our invitation for you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the company you keep.”
For those new to Greek cuisine, the mezze selection offers an accessible entry point. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, setting the stage for the courses to follow.
Salads: Freshness from the Garden
The salad offerings at Athenia reflect a commitment to seasonal produce and the art of simple preparation. Greek cuisine celebrates vegetables in their purest form, letting natural flavors shine through with minimal intervention.
Each salad is composed with an eye for color, texture, and taste, turning humble ingredients into memorable dishes.
The signature Horiatiki—or village salad—is a staple, featuring ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and tangy feta. This dish is an embodiment of Greek food philosophy: a few quality ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something extraordinary.
Beyond the classics, Athenia’s menu introduces inventive salads that incorporate Mediterranean grains, roasted vegetables, and even fresh seafood. Whether you’re seeking something light to start or a hearty vegetarian main, the salad section offers something for every palate.
- Horiatiki Salad – Tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta, dressed in extra-virgin olive oil.
- Arugula & Citrus – Peppery greens with orange segments, candied walnuts, and honey-lemon vinaigrette.
- Farro & Roasted Beet – Nutty farro, roasted beets, pistachios, and goat cheese, tossed in pomegranate dressing.
- Grilled Shrimp Salad – Marinated shrimp over mixed greens with pickled red onions and tzatziki drizzle.
Salad | Main Flavors | Texture |
Horiatiki | Bright, briny, tangy | Crunchy, creamy |
Arugula & Citrus | Fresh, sweet, peppery | Crisp, juicy |
Farro & Roasted Beet | Earthy, nutty, sweet | Chewy, smooth |
Salads at Athenia are more than just sides. They can be enjoyed as a standalone course or paired with grilled meats and seafood for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal.
Every salad is finished with a touch of house-pressed olive oil, enhancing the freshness of the ingredients and connecting every bite to the sun-drenched fields of Greece.
Signature Main Courses: Heart and Soul of Greek Cuisine
The main courses at Athenia showcase the culinary heritage of Greece while embracing modern sensibilities. Carefully sourced meats, sustainable seafood, and traditional preparations ensure that each entrée is both authentic and innovative.
Here, the kitchen’s skill and creativity are on full display.
From slow-cooked lamb to wood-grilled fish, every dish is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The menu honors time-honored recipes passed down through generations, yet it also welcomes new ideas and global influences.
This balance keeps Athenia’s offerings exciting for regulars and newcomers alike.
Portion sizes are generous, and the presentation is artful, ensuring a memorable experience from the first glance to the final savor. Every main course is designed to be satisfying yet nuanced, inviting diners to linger and appreciate the layers of flavor.
- Lamb Kleftiko – Slow-braised lamb shank with garlic, oregano, and lemon, served with roasted potatoes.
- Moussaka – A classic casserole of eggplant, spiced ground beef, and creamy béchamel sauce.
- Grilled Branzino – Whole Mediterranean sea bass, char-grilled and finished with caper-lemon butter.
- Vegetarian Gemista – Roasted peppers and tomatoes stuffed with herbed rice and pine nuts.
“We believe in honoring tradition while embracing innovation. Every main course at Athenia is a bridge between our heritage and the future of Greek cuisine.”
For those seeking variety, Athenia offers combination platters that allow guests to sample several specialties. These platters are ideal for groups or for adventurous individuals eager to explore the breadth of Greek flavors.
Whether you crave the comfort of a well-made moussaka or the lightness of grilled fish, the main course menu at Athenia is crafted to satisfy every appetite.
Seafood Specialties: From the Aegean to Your Plate
Seafood plays a starring role at Athenia, reflecting Greece’s close ties to the sea. The restaurant’s seafood specialties are sourced from sustainable fisheries and prepared with a respect for both tradition and quality.
Every dish is a tribute to the flavors of the Aegean.
From whole grilled fish to delicate shellfish, Athenia’s seafood offerings emphasize freshness and simplicity. The kitchen uses light marinades and gentle cooking techniques to preserve the natural flavors of each ingredient, letting the sea speak for itself.
A rotating selection of daily catches ensures that the menu remains dynamic and seasonally driven. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to suggest pairings with Greek wines or house-made sides, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Grilled Calamari – Tender calamari marinated in lemon and herbs, char-grilled and served with garlic aioli.
- Seafood Souvlaki – Skewers of shrimp, scallops, and octopus, grilled to perfection and accompanied by grilled vegetables.
- Fisherman’s Stew – A hearty medley of mussels, clams, shrimp, and white fish in a saffron-tomato broth.
- Baked Salmon with Fennel – Wild-caught salmon baked with sliced fennel, citrus, and capers.
Comparing Seafood Delights
Dish | Key Ingredients | Cooking Method |
Grilled Calamari | Calamari, lemon, herbs | Grilled |
Seafood Souvlaki | Shrimp, scallops, octopus | Skewered & grilled |
Fisherman’s Stew | Mussels, clams, shrimp, fish | Stewed |
Baked Salmon with Fennel | Salmon, fennel, citrus, capers | Baked |
Seafood at Athenia is celebrated for its freshness and expertly balanced flavors. The menu is intentionally flexible, allowing diners to select accompaniments that suit their preferences—whether it’s a zesty salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple side of seasonal greens.
Ask your server about daily specials, as the kitchen often features unique preparations based on the freshest available catch.
Vegetarian and Vegan Offerings: Creative Plant-Based Cuisine
Athenia recognizes the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan cuisine that is both satisfying and creative. Greek cooking naturally lends itself to plant-based dishes, with an abundance of fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains.
The restaurant’s chefs have elevated these ingredients, crafting options that appeal to all diners—not just those following a vegetarian diet.
From hearty stews to crisp, colorful salads, the vegetarian and vegan section is a showcase of what’s possible when flavor and nutrition take center stage. Many dishes are inspired by traditional recipes handed down through generations of Greek families, while others are inventive new creations.
Every item in this category is thoughtfully composed to offer a balanced, complete meal. Guests can enjoy robust flavors and satisfying textures without compromising their dietary preferences or values.
- Fasolada – Classic Greek white bean stew simmered with tomatoes, celery, and fresh herbs.
- Imam Bayildi – Roasted eggplant stuffed with onions, tomatoes, and garlic, finished with olive oil.
- Chickpea & Spinach Pilaf – Fragrant rice pilaf with chickpeas, baby spinach, and lemon zest.
- Vegan Moussaka – Layered eggplant and lentils, topped with cashew-based béchamel.
“Plant-based dishes are not an afterthought at Athenia. We honor the earth’s bounty by creating vegetarian and vegan offerings that are as delicious as they are nourishing.”
Athenia’s commitment to plant-based cuisine is evident in the careful selection of ingredients and the attention to detail in preparation. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free or can be adapted to suit specific dietary needs—simply ask the staff for recommendations.
For those new to Greek vegetarian cuisine, the menu offers helpful guidance and pairing suggestions, ensuring that every guest enjoys a satisfying and memorable meal.
Traditional Sides and Accompaniments
No Greek meal is complete without an array of sides and accompaniments. At Athenia, these dishes are more than just add-ons—they are integral to creating a balanced, communal dining experience.
Each side is prepared with the same care and attention as the main courses, elevating simple ingredients to new heights.
Guests are encouraged to mix and match sides, crafting their own personalized plate. Whether you prefer the comfort of roasted potatoes or the brightness of a fresh salad, the choices are plentiful and satisfying.
The variety of sides at Athenia ensures that every meal is tailored to your tastes. Shareable and versatile, they are perfect for groups or for those who enjoy sampling a little bit of everything.
- Lemon Roasted Potatoes – Yukon gold potatoes roasted with lemon, garlic, and oregano.
- Spanakorizo – Greek-style spinach and rice pilaf, finished with dill and olive oil.
- Gigantes Plaki – Baked giant beans in tomato-herb sauce, topped with parsley.
- Grilled Seasonal Vegetables – Assorted market vegetables lightly charred and dressed with sea salt.
Pairing Suggestions
Main Dish | Recommended Side | Flavor Profile |
Lamb Kleftiko | Lemon Roasted Potatoes | Savory, citrusy |
Grilled Branzino | Grilled Seasonal Vegetables | Fresh, smoky |
Vegetarian Gemista | Gigantes Plaki | Hearty, herbaceous |
Sides at Athenia are designed to be shared, fostering an atmosphere of generosity and abundance that is central to Greek hospitality. The wide selection means there’s always something to complement your main course, no matter your preference.
Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations—they’re always happy to help you find the perfect combination to suit your tastes.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
No meal at Athenia is truly complete without sampling one of their signature desserts. Greek sweets are renowned for their layers of flavor and texture, often combining honey, nuts, and delicate pastries in delightful ways.
The dessert menu at Athenia is a celebration of these time-honored traditions, lovingly prepared and beautifully presented.
From the crunch of baklava to the creamy richness of traditional custards, each dessert is crafted to offer a satisfying conclusion to your meal. The pastry chefs use authentic recipes, high-quality ingredients, and a touch of creativity to ensure that every bite is memorable.
Whether you prefer something rich and decadent or light and refreshing, there is a sweet treat for every palate. Many desserts are best enjoyed with a cup of strong Greek coffee or a digestif from the restaurant’s curated selection.
- Baklava – Layers of phyllo pastry, walnuts, and pistachios, drizzled with honey syrup.
- Galaktoboureko – Semolina custard wrapped in phyllo, baked and soaked in citrus-infused syrup.
- Loukoumades – Greek doughnuts fried to golden perfection, served with honey and cinnamon.
- Yogurt with Spoon Sweets – Creamy Greek yogurt topped with preserved fruits and a drizzle of local honey.
“Desserts at Athenia are crafted to linger in your memory, turning a good meal into an unforgettable experience.”
For those with dietary restrictions, Athenia offers several gluten-free and vegan dessert options. The staff is happy to provide guidance, ensuring that everyone can indulge in a sweet ending.
Desserts at Athenia are more than just food—they are the final note in a symphony of flavors, leaving guests with a lasting impression of warmth and hospitality.
Beverage Program: Toasting to Greek Traditions
Athenia’s beverage program is a thoughtful extension of its culinary philosophy, showcasing both classic and contemporary Greek drinks. The wine list is a curated collection of Greek varietals, each chosen to complement the flavors of the menu.
From crisp whites to bold reds, there’s a wine for every dish and occasion.
The bar also offers a selection of craft cocktails inspired by Mediterranean botanicals and spirits. House-made infusions, fresh citrus, and aromatic herbs take center stage, providing a modern twist on traditional flavors.
Non-alcoholic options are equally creative, with house-pressed juices and inventive spritzers completing the lineup.
Pairing drinks with food is a highlight of the Athenia experience. The knowledgeable staff is always available to recommend combinations that elevate both the meal and the mood.
- Assyrtiko – A crisp, mineral-driven white wine from Santorini, ideal with seafood.
- Xinomavro – A robust, complex red that pairs beautifully with grilled lamb or rich stews.
- Ouzo – An anise-flavored aperitif, traditionally served with mezze.
- Mastiha Cocktail – A refreshing blend of mastiha liqueur, lemon, and mint.
Wine and Food Pairings
Dish | Recommended Wine | Why It Works |
Grilled Branzino | Assyrtiko | Bright acidity complements the fish’s delicate flavor |
Lamb Kleftiko | Xinomavro | Tannins cut through rich, savory meat |
Vegetarian Gemista | Rosé | Fruity notes enhance the dish’s herbaceous profile |
For a true taste of Greece, consider ending your meal with a traditional digestif or a cup of strong, aromatic Greek coffee. These beverages are crafted to linger, providing a fitting conclusion to the Athenia dining experience.
Raise a glass and celebrate the flavors, stories, and traditions that make every meal at Athenia special.
Conclusion: The Athenia Experience
Dining at Athenia Restaurant is more than a meal—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of Greek culture, hospitality, and flavor. Every section of the menu has been meticulously crafted to honor tradition while embracing the creativity and diversity of the modern culinary world.
From the first savory bite of mezze to the last sweet taste of dessert, diners are invited to share in a celebration of food, community, and connection.
The menu’s thoughtful balance of classic and contemporary dishes ensures that every guest, regardless of dietary preference or familiarity with Greek cuisine, finds something to delight in. Whether you’re gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking a nourishing meal, Athenia promises an experience that lingers long after the final course is served.
At its heart, Athenia is about more than just food—it’s about the stories that unfold around the table, the memories created with each meal, and the spirit of generosity that defines Greek hospitality.
With its welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and unwavering commitment to quality, Athenia Restaurant invites you to savor not just the flavors of Greece, but the very essence of its culture.