Photo: Orestis Seferoglou

Some of the best seafood in Athens is to be found around Piraeus, the city’s main port. From Michelin-star restaurants to cheap and cheerful fish tavernas by the water, here’s where to find the freshest seafood.

By Carolina Doriti

The information provided in this article, including prices, menu items, and other details, reflects the conditions at the time of writing or visit. Please note that these elements are subject to change, and we recommend contacting the restaurant or venue directly for the most current information.  

Think you know Piraeus? Yes, it’s the world’s second largest passenger port. But to Athenians, it’s not just a place to jump on a ferry and escape to the islands. To us, Piraeus is a diverse seaside community of shipping merchants, working fishermen and old world charms. You’ll find us on any given Sunday enjoying straight-from-the-net seafood at authentic, laid-back favourites like Margaro, or celebrated fine dining restaurants like Varoulko.

Piraeus retains a nostalgic character that’s rare in big cities nowadays. You can feel it in the grittier neighbourhoods like Keratsini, Drapetsona and Perama; but also in the photogenic areas of Mikrolimano and Kastella, Piraiki and Marina Zeas. Perhaps it’s because historically, Piraeus was inhabited mostly by islanders; people of the sea, who are usually simple, open and kind. 

Piraeus is home to Athens’ central fish auction (in Drapetsona), as well as an organised fish market in the central shopping district. Little surprise then that some of the best secret spots to enjoy local seafood are tucked away here, along with some of the most famous seafood restaurants in Greece. Here are our top picks—all well worth spending a few extra hours in Athens, before you head to the islands.

Mikrolimano at Pireaus during golden hour.

"Top quality, seasonal fish and seafood are cooked to simple perfection. Portions are large, salads are fresh, and everything is made in-house."

Panorama

Yperokeanio

Go hungry and try a little of everything at Yperokeanio.

Photo: Orestis Seferoglou

Fried red mullets from Margaro's simple menu.

Photo: Orestis Seferoglou

Margaro

Ilias

Neighbourhood hero Ilias.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Get ready to pile your plate high with the best seafood in Piraeus.

Photo: Eleni Veziri

Great value seafood worth hanging around for.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Yiannis

Imerovigli

These clams are just as tasty as they are photogenic.

Photo: Courtesy of Imerovigli

Dourabeis serves up simple sophistication.

Photo: Orestis Seferoglou

Dourabeis

Taxidevontas

Fresh fish by the basket.

Photo: Courtesy of Taxidevontas

Savour stylish and seasonal seafood at this Michelin-starred Piraeus landmark.

Photo: Varoulko Seaside

Varoulko Seaside

Papaioannou

Seafood this good deserves a front row.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis