Are you tired of the usual tourist traps? Craving an authentic Greek dining experience away from the crowds? Let me transport you to a quiet corner of Athens, to Kaisaraini neighbourhood, where the scent of grilled meats mingles with the laughter of locals. Nestled in a labyrinthine lane, Tsobanakos stands as one of the city’s most loved grill houses.

Tsobanakos’s charm lies in its unique layout. Picture this: a narrow road divides the restaurant into two distinct areas. On one side, you’ll find the busy kitchen and bar, and additional seating. The other side? Cross the road (yes, literally!) to discover the main seating area—a rustic oasis shaded by a weathered canopy. The mix of wooden tables and chairs has hosted not only hungry locals and regulars but also famous actors seeking refuge from the limelight.

What draws discerning diners to Tsobanakos? It’s the promise of delectable dishes steeped in Greek tradition. From soul-warming goat and potatoes to biftekia (grilled beef patties), each plate tells a story of generations past. The flavours are as authentic as the worn stone walls that surround you and the numerous trinkets collected since its opening in 1954.

Tsobanakos specialises in time-honoured Greek dishes, and their lamb ribs (or chops) steal the show. Imagine tender, succulent meat cooked to perfection, accompanied by freshly cut French fries. It’s a symphony of flavours that transports you to the heart of Greek gastronomy. And don’t miss their signature dessert: creamy yogurt topped with cherries in syrup—a sweet finale that lingers on your taste buds.

This place exudes local charm. Locals flock to Tsobanakos for good reason - the straightforward service and rustic ambiance create a sense of authenticity.

Feasting in Athens: A Culinary Odyssey at Tsobanakos Taverna

Imagine stepping into a cosy taverna in Athens, where the menu whispers secrets in Greek—a language you don’t quite grasp. But fear not! Fate smiles upon you, as three Greek companions take the reins, ordering plate after plate of tantalising dishes. Here at Tsobanakos Taverna, feasting becomes an art form. This was the feast that I devoured with colleagues from DM Advertising in Athens.

🍖 Grilled Greek Style Lamb Chops

• These lamb chops defy expectations. Served by the kilo, they beckon you to indulge. Char-grilled to perfection, each bite bursts with intense flavour. Prepare to savour every morsel.

🍝 Makaronia me Kima (Greek Spaghetti Bolognaise)

• Familiar yet distinct, this dish bridges Italian and Greek cuisines. Picture a robust Bolognese sauce, but amplified—more spices, thicker texture. It’s comfort in a bowl, with a Mediterranean twist.

🥗 Greek Salad

• Simplicity elevated. Fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and olives dance in harmony. But here’s the secret: the olive oil hails from the revered Association of Kaito. Read about their liquid gold HERE

🥩 Beef Strips

• Tender succulence awaits. These chargrilled steak strips redefine meaty bliss. Close your eyes; let the flavours transport you to sun-kissed hillsides.

🥬 Lahanodolmades (Greek Style Cabbage Rolls)

• Imagine delicate cabbage leaves cradling a savoury filling. Each bite whispers tradition, a nod to grandmothers’ kitchens.

🥒 Tzatsiki and Bread

• Creamy tzatziki, a cool breeze on warm bread. Dip, savour, repeat. The bread? A humble vessel for culinary magic.

🍟 Chips

• Crispy, golden, irresistible. Because every feast needs a sidekick.

🥮 Kataifi (Baklava)

• Layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and honey syrup. A sweet symphony that lingers on your tongue.

🍊 Portokalopita (Orange Cake with Syrup)

• Zesty, fragrant, and drenched in citrus-infused syrup. A slice of sunshine.

🍨 Yoghurt with Cherries

• Creamy yogurt meets ruby-red cherries. It’s dessert, nostalgia, and a promise of more meals shared.

Why Keep It Hush-Hush?

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Maybe I shouldn’t tell you about it!” But here’s the secret: Tsobanakos thrives on word-of-mouth recommendations and as you leave Tsobanakos, you’ll understand why some secrets are best shared selectively. So go ahead—share this post with fellow foodies who appreciate hidden gems. Let them savour the magic of Tsobanakos before the rest of the world catches on.

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT TSOBANAKOS

• There’s parking available

• They don’t allow bookings but they are busy so either arrive early or be prepared to wait

• Plenty of vegetarians dishes available. They do not cater for gluten free or vegans although most of the dishes could be considered.

• Disabled accessible

Tsobanakos, 2 Anakreodos Kesariani, Athens 161 22 Greece

My Spoon Award : Tartan Spoon 10/10

This meal was part of a Press Trip to Athens to discover Olive Oil and Corinthian Raisins.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk