In the up-and-coming Neos Kosmos neighbourhood in Athens, these are the 6 best places to eat.
Within the boundaries of the municipality of Athens, nestled between the notable suburbs of Mets and Koukaki, Neos Kosmos (Νέος Κόσμος) today represents a diverse social and cultural mosaic.
Neos Kosmos began as an immigrant neighbourhood and has now evolved into an attractive and burgeoning urban district with some excellent traditional and modern food choices.
A neighbourhood of refugees
The area was once known as Dourgouti (Δουργούτι). According to popular belief, the name Dourgouti derives from the Athenian family Dourgoutis, who owned lands in the area. The first Armenian refugees arrived here in 1921. However, the number of refugees would subsequently rise after the Greco-Turkish War in 1922 and the arrival of Greeks from Asia Minor. They initially resided in deplorable conditions in shanties, as the first refugee flat structures were not erected until 1934. Neos Kosmos has been a wretched slum for many years, with a maze of mud-soaked streets. The 1970s witnessed a wave of worker housing building and the first concerted effort to beautify the neighbourhood. Today some of the flats are still occupied by the third and fourth generations of refugees, while others are home to refugees fleeing the Middle East.
A district under transformation
Because of its placement on the outskirts of the city’s organised web, the region also had a high concentration of car repair shops and used car yards. Even now, despite a major decrease, there are numerous repair shops on Frantzi Street (Οδός Φραντζή) and in the adjoining streets. However, in recent decades, with the arrival of the metro and tram, as well as the opening of theatres, music venues, pubs, cafes, and restaurants, the area has been changed and revived.
An important role in the transformation of the area was undoubtedly played by the live music scene Stavros tou Notou (Σταυρός του Νότου), which has been and continues to be a significant space for expression for both young and established artists. Additionally, the operation of the cultural centre Stegi (Στέγη) and the National Museum of Contemporary Art (Εθνικό Μουσείο Σύγχρονης Τέχνης) have undoubtedly contributed significantly to the area’s transformation.
As a result, Neos Kosmos has been turned into a more modern and youthful hub with vibrant cultural activities as well as an ever-changing culinary scene. It has also been developed into a district for a significant number of the city’s youth to live and socialise.
Tomas Kebab – The best kebab in Athens
For many years, the Tomas Kebab restaurant was a well-kept secret among Neos Kosmos locals. Now visitors from all over Athens flock to experience the authentic kebab served by Tomas from Armenia and his sons. Tomas’ eatery is considered an important element of the local Armenian heritage.
Here they make perhaps the best kebab in town using traditional Armenian recipes. The lamb kebab wrapped in pita with onions and tomatoes is unique. However, the chicken kebab with yoghurt sauce is also worth a try. (Mitrou Sarkoudinou 49, Neos Kosmos)
Crete (Η Κρήτη) – Delicious homemade sandwich
This small eatery that makes only sandwiches is another well-kept local secret and a classic hangout in Neos Kosmos. It is a place particularly favoured by employees of nearby car repair shops. The options here are restricted to three: small, medium, and large.
The ingredients are always the same (omelette, bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, feta cheese, potatoes, tomato and mustard, ketchup or mayonnaise), but the flavour is excellent, similar to the sandwich your mother would make for a school trip. (Ipponaktos 54, Neos Kosmos)
Robin Belgian Street Food – Street food with a European twist
This store in Neos Kosmos aims to introduce a lesser-known aspect of European street food. At Robin, you can enjoy delightful sandwiches inspired by the philosophy of Belgian street food. The primary selections include pulled pork, pancetta, marinated chicken, and beef burgers, all of which are complemented by delicious fries and a diverse range of sauces.
The atmosphere is bright and inviting, with nearly half of the store dedicated to its gleaming open kitchen. The open kitchen not only showcases the culinary process but also allows you to witness the care and passion that goes into each dish. (Theodoritou Vresthenis 31, Neos Kosmos)
Louiza Athens – Tasty and innovative Greek cuisine
For an all-day restaurant, Louiza is a remarkable example. It is located on the ground floor of a historic and well-preserved workers’ apartment building and has a pleasant environment characterised by a warm and familiar ambiance. The restaurant offers excellent brunch options and is also an ideal venue for dinner. The dishes at Louiza are firmly rooted in Greek cuisine, yet they also incorporate modern twists.
A notable and successful example of this trend is the risotto with rooster. This dish showcases the chef’s ability to blend traditional flavours with contemporary techniques. The result is a rich, creamy texture that complements the tender meat perfectly. You are sure to be enchanted by the innovative approach to beloved Greek flavours, making each visit to this restaurant a memorable culinary experience. (Sfiggos 13, Neos Kosmos)
Anston Restaurant – The best Asian in Neos Kosmos
Located in Neos Kosmos, Anston is a fresh addition to the Asian culinary scene, having opened a few months ago. The restaurant serves outstanding cuisine. It has a beautiful setting with two chefs making meals in an open kitchen and provides courteous service.
Sushi, bao buns, stir-fried dishes, and other Asian food specialities are of the highest quality. Here you can taste a broad menu full of authentic flavours that highlight the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine. The combination of these components results in an engaging dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more. (Efstratiou Pissa 54, Neos Kosmos)
Roasting Warehouse Athens – An unforgettable coffee experience
In a city like Athens, where coffee is a cherished daily habit and countless establishments serve it, discovering a new place that can truly surprise you is quite a challenge. The Roasting Warehouse in Neos Kosmos is an exception to this. This is the inaugural store in Greece of the successful Australian chain of coffee shops.
With its beautiful and impressive space, the cafe is suitable for any time of day. Here you can enjoy quality coffees (both blends and single origins), delightful sweets, and excellent brunch dishes. With its commitment to quality and a passion for coffee culture, it’s no wonder that this place has quickly become a beloved addition to the local scene. (Ntelakroua 2, Neos Kosmos)
Two honorable mentions
These are two additional places in Neos Kosmos to eat. Although they are not included in the list of the 6 best, they are certainly worth mentioning.
In the heart of Neos Kosmos, at number 43 Frantzi Street, nestled among the car parts stores, you will discover 43 Sarantatrio (Σαραντατρίο). The restaurant located in an arcade evokes the charm of old Athens. It is simple and welcoming, boasting traditional flavours that are executed with clever finesse, alongside an excellent selection of Greek wines.
On the other hand, Amore really stands out at number 1 Menechmou Street, which lies behind the church of Agios Panteleimonas Ilissou, a quickly becoming hot location for the Athenian nightlife. This quaintly designed Greek-Italian spritzeria serves a delectable and excellent variety of cold appetisers. In addition, its assortment of wines, spritzes, and drinks is truly exceptional. Due to its popularity, this venue usually fills up early every evening.
Neos Kosmos: A neighbourhood worth experiencing
It is certain that Neos Kosmos is a very interesting and up-and-coming neighbourhood of Athens that is worth discovering. With its top cultural venues, vibrant nightlife, and a wide selection of excellent eating options available around the clock to cater to every taste, Neos Kosmos is bound to impress you.
Read also our article: The 6 best places to eat in Plaka, Athens
