In this article, we provide a list of five affordable Michelin-rated restaurants in Athens, Greece. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a meal at a Michelin rated restaurant. Michelin has a qualitative price rating system to help the consumer gauge the expected price range when selecting a Michelin-rated restaurant.
Michelin price rating system:
- $ = On a budget
- $$ = A moderate spend
- $$$ = Special occasion
- $$$$ = Spare no expense
The restaurants listed below are limited to affordable Michelin-rated restaurants in Athens, Greece for those who want to experience a Michelin restaurant on a budget or moderate budget.
1. Cerdo Negro 1985
Atmosphere and Ambience:
Nestled in Athens’ heart, Cerdo Negro 1985 exudes rustic charm and warmth. The ambiance of this small taverna is casual and relaxed, and is located near the Kerameikos archaeological site. This gem is located very close to Athens city center, but far enough away to keep large crowds away. Cerdo Negro is operated by two brothers who have created a fusion of the Greek heritage with a passion for Spanish cuisine. Their commitment to this approach to cuisine has earned them a Michelin rating. Most dishes are cooked over a wood fire. They also offer a six-course tasting menu. The single story restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a nice patio.
Price:
- $$ – A Moderate Spend
Physical Address:
- 5 Vitonos Street, Athens, 11854, Greece
Cuisine Description:
- Mediterranean Cuisine/Fusion
Website:
2. Aneton
Atmosphere and Ambience:
In 2005, Dimitris Fotopoulos unveiled Aneton in a serene northern suburb of Athens. By 2020, this culinary gem had relocated to Athens’ Historic Centre, beckoning both tourists and locals. Remarkably, Aneton has preserved its foundational ethos, championing authentic Greek cuisine, the art of simplicity, and unparalleled value. The name hints at “Anesis,” translating to comfort in Greek, and the establishment certainly delivers a distinctive gastronomic adventure. Their dishes, deeply rooted in both traditional and modern Greek culinary traditions, are crafted from meticulously selected seasonal ingredients. The establishment’s commitment to sourcing local Greek products and reviving treasured recipes is evident. Even their beverage offerings, from signature cocktails to wines, mirror this dedication to seasonality and diverse origins.
Price:
- $$ – A Moderate Spend
Physical Address:
- 3 Navarchou Nikodimou Street, Athens, 10 557, Greece
Cuisine Description:
- Mediterranean Cuisine
Website:
3. Okio
Atmosphere and Ambience:
Okio Restaurant offers a sharing-style menu inspired by seasonal Mediterranean cuisine. Using modern techniques, they craft contemporary dishes. Collaboration with Greek producers ensures top-quality ingredients. Okio sources from all Greek regions. Familiar concepts get a unique twist. Every dish embodies the distinctive Okio experience. They prioritize seasonality and authenticity.
Price:
- $$ – A moderate spend.
Physical Address:
- Nikis 33 & Navarchou Nikodimou 3, Athens, Greece, 10557
Cuisine Description:
- Mediterranean Cuisine
Website:
4. Merceri
Atmosphere and Ambience:
Near the Herakleidon Museum lies the bistro, Merceri, recognized by Michelin Guide 2022. Run by chefs from Santorini’s luxury hotels, they craft contemporary Greek dishes. Lunch is simple; evenings turn gourmet. Located in Thisio, Athens, it’s steps from historical monuments like the Ancient Agora. Chefs Melina Chomata and Maria Dioudi blend experience with gastronomic passion. They prioritize local, high-quality ingredients, ensuring unique, delicious presentations. Their creativity promises to surprise and delight diners.
Price:
- $$ – A moderate spend.
Physical Address:
- 21 Herakleidon Thisio, Athens 11851
Cuisine Description:
- Greek Cuisine
Website:
5. Annie Fine Cooking
Atmosphere and Ambience:
Located on a serene tree-lined street, this neighborhood restaurant is a local favorite, evident from the fresh, daily-changing menu sourced from local ingredients. Every element that defines a top-notch restaurant is present here. Reservations are a must, and the knowledgeable waiting staff advise on the best dish combinations. The menu, though concise, changes daily and boasts excellent dishes designed for sharing, offering a communal dining experience.
Price:
- $$ – A moderate spend.
Physical Address:
- 4 Menaihmou Street, Neos Kosmos PO Box 11743
Cuisine Description:
- Greek Fusion Cuisine
Website:
Conclusion
Athens is not just a historical gem but also a culinary treasure trove. These five affordable Michelin-rated restaurants showcase what Athens, Greece has to offer without breaking the bank. Dive into a world of flavors and experiences that promise to be unforgettable. Athens offers a rich culinary scene. These Michelin-rated restaurants prove gourmet doesn’t always mean expensive. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these spots promise a memorable, affordable dining experience. Looking to take a deeper dive into Athens, Greece, read our article Best Wines in Athens Greece for additional information on the great wines of the area.