Souvlaki (meat on a stick), the hamburger of Greece has made a comeback since the recession began, however despite the resurrection there are some places that never went away.  And what better day than Wednesday, May 6, International No Diet day to try one!

Elvis
Greek series ‘Mila moy Vromika’ (Talk Dirty to Me) shot scenes into the bucher’s shop-turned- souvlaki joint. Good meat and potatoes, no wraps and raki offered to guests as they wait make Elvis worth a lookin. While there, don’t forget to try the delicious secret yellow sauce.

Cnr of 29 Plataion and Leonidou sts, Kerameikos, tel. 210 3455836.

Lefteris
Back in 1953 an Armenian immigrant showed Lefteris the secret of a good souvlaki. Lefteris took the recipe and started selling as a street vendor at Nea Smyrni Square, but fans soon grew and he opened his store just off Nea Smyrni square. Surrounded by other souvlaki joints, Lefteris continues to draw the crowds from around Athens. The family business is now continued by Lefteris’ sons.

66 Οmirou Street, Nea Smyrni, tel. 210 9310341, 210 9333663.

Kostas
Since 1950, Kostas has opened at 9 and closed at midday shortly after selling out. Clean and calm… he takes his time to get just the right meaty flavor. His pita bread is thick with fresh ingredients. Pass the potatoes, because the souvlaki is so filling on its own that you probably won’t need them.

Cnr of Mitropoleos and 5 Pendelis sts, Syntagma, tel. 210 3228502.

Koumbari (Best Men)
This restaurant has become something of a Cult feature in the world of Greek souvlaki. Exotic tastes and spices with shashlik tastes made even hotter with the addition of onion and paprika. The chicken is tender and there’s even liver souvlaki… Appetizers such as the handmade Russian salad should not be passed up.

Cnr of Sampsoundos and Agiou Petrou sts, Menidi, tel. 210 2400671, 6984090991.

Livadia
Since first opening to the public in 1963, Livadia has been known for two reasons: (a) the delicious pork souvlaki, and (b) a sign that says “as much bread as you like.” You could eat a souvlaki and get your fill on bread. The best choice of food to eat while walking around Omonia and Kaningos Square.

Kaningos Square, tel. 210 3825760.

Papingo
A souvlaki surprise at Holargos, north Athens. The souvlaki joint is known for its juicy pork souvlaki and kebabs but the chicken is not to be scoffed at either. Fans go from around the area because the store refuses to add a delivery service.

9 25th March Street, Holargos, tel. 210 6532529.

To Teleion (The Perfect)
The store is only open in the afternoons and offers exquisite pork and chicken souvlaki. A family business with just a few tables and lots of taste.

24 Plapouta Street, Neo Irakleio, tel. 210 2814866.

Mitsos
One of the favorite souvlaki places in the northern suburbs of Athens. An Olympic-sized grill is filled with pork and chicken pieces on sticks. Juicy bites and bread – taste in all its simplicity…

4 Stamatas Avenue, Drosia, tel. 210 8131683.

I Rossides (The Russian Women)
The sign says “Souvlaki-Piroshki” but everyone knows the store as “Russians”. Soft juicy pita, clean and slightly-marinated meat, and the freshest ingredients blended together. From 1990 until today, Mrs. Anna and her daughter have catered to souvlaki fans and piroshki lovers alike.

Cnr of Grypari and Anagnostara sts, Kallithea.

Kostas
The souvlaki is a hangout for AEK fans, because soccer is Kostas’ second passion, after souvlaki. Since 1984, before Agias Eirinis Square became trendy, Kostas would dip his souvlaki in red sauce that he has dubbed “medicine”. He claims that his souvlaki can make you a better person!

2 Agias Eirinis Square, Athens, tel. 210 3232971.

Mangali
2 1/2 years in Ilisia, with everything cooked on coal. Brilliant souvlaki, unbelievable chicken drum sticks, balanced kebabs and the best sausage in town. Nothing is premade, created slowly so that its just right… You’ll find the wait worth it! Supplementary bonus – is the fresh Naxos’ fried potato cooked infront of you. Try the pork steak chops and turkey beafcake or mushrooms… As we said, everything is handmade down to the tzatziki.

54 Papadiamantopoulou Street, Ilissia, tel. 210 7717517.