Clean Monday, the official start of the Greek Orthodox Lent, is one of those holidays that stay in your heart long after the day ends. It’s not just about masks, kites, or the festive chaos of Carnival—it’s about gathering around tables piled high with fresh seafood, legumes, and traditional Lenten dishes. For many Athenians, the day is defined by family and friends, good food, and the sea’s bounty, whether in a lively outdoor taverna or a cozy home kitchen.

As a child, I remember stepping out with friends for a rebellious “independent” meal in the city, only to be disappointed by mediocre taramosalata (fish roe dip). Over time, though, the lesson became clear: nothing beats the care, skill, and flavor of a proper Clean Monday spread prepared with love. From perfectly grilled octopus to crispy fried seafood, from airy, lemony taramosalata to fresh oysters and clams, the city has hidden gems where chefs treat Greek seafood with artistry and respect.

Whether you’re looking to experience Clean Monday like a local or simply enjoy a feast of fresh fish and traditional meze, Athens offers a selection of tavernas, seafood restaurants, and modern eateries that bring this festive day to life. The following list highlights the very best spots to celebrate, eat, and toast to spring with family and friends.

1. Psarokastella – Piraeus

This tiny seafood tavern in Kastella remained a well-kept secret until Nestor, son of the family owners, won MasterChef Greece.

Τoday, it’s known for its careful selection of ingredients, recipes inspired by Constantinople, and expert handling of seafood on both grill and pan. Signature dishes include spicy prawns, glossy mussels, fresh shellfish, and authentic taramosalata that tastes just like homemade.

Address: Skra 19, Piraeus

2. Lesvos Ouzeri – Central Athens

A historic ouzeri that has welcomed students, artists, and locals for six decades. Located on Emmanouil Benaki Street, it’s famous for its charcoal-grilled octopus and perfectly fried calamari.

Οn Clean Monday, seafood takes the spotlight, including cuttlefish and the renowned saganaki dishes, paired with local spirits.

Address: Emmanouil Benaki 38, Athens

3. Zarkadoulas – Nikaia

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Before the seafood boil trend hit Greece, Zarkadoulas had already made its mark. Famous for perfectly grilled crabs dressed in olive oil and lemon, this Nikaia tavern keeps things simple yet exceptional. Complementary dishes include fresh fish, fried potatoes, cucumber-tomato salad, and light taramosalata—perfect for Clean Monday.

Address: Vithynias 32, Nikaia

4. Klepsydra – Northern Suburbs

A classic seafood spot that stands out in a region known for meat and pies. Klepsydra became popular thanks to its home-style seafood dishes, steaming hot mussels, and marinated anchovies. Though the menu has expanded over the years, locals know exactly what to order for the freshest seafood experience.

Address: Drosias Stamata 5

5. E/G Taxidevontas – Keratsini

Located near Keratsini fish market, E/G Taxidevontas looks like a traditional tavern but surprises with inventive dishes. Taramosalata is light and mousse-like, cuttlefish is perfectly fried, and seasonal seafood like ceviche, carpaccio, and shellfish shine. Reservations are recommended, especially for oysters and clams.

Address: Platonos 72, Keratsini

6. Ionikos – Nikaia

A small tavern in Nikaia’s refugee neighborhood, Ionikos is famous for grilled sardines but shines on Clean Monday with crispy shrimp, served with a retro cocktail sauce. Pair your seafood with homemade fava and roasted potatoes for a taste of Greek Lenten cuisine.

Address: Prousis 17, Nikaia
Alt Text: Crispy shrimp with fava and roasted potatoes at Ionikos
Caption: Ionikos celebrates seafood classics with a nostalgic touch in Nikaia.

7. Argoura – Tzitzifies

With a flowering courtyard that welcomes spring, Argoura offers a modern take on classic Greek seafood. The menu adapts to the day’s catch, highlighting raw preparations like octopus carpaccio and oysters, alongside pasta and risotto.

Address: Agisilou 49-51, Tzitzifies

8. St. George Lycabettus – Kolonaki

This iconic hotel restaurant balances tradition and haute cuisine. With panoramic views of Athens dotted with kites, guests enjoy a Lenten buffet prepared by executive chef Stefanos Papanikolaou. Highlights include handmade lagana bread, octopus salad with Florina peppers, cuttlefish with wild greens, and shrimp with fennel-infused pasta. Children also have a special activity program.

Address: Kleomenous 2, Kolonaki

9. Atelier Papaioannou – Neo Psychiko

Synonymous with fine seafood in Athens, this restaurant focuses on fresh, expertly prepared fish. On Clean Monday, the menu emphasizes both raw and cooked seafood, combined with pasta, risotto, and seasonal vegetables. Even traditional dishes like taramosalata and salads are elevated to exceptional levels.

Address: Dimitriou Vasileiou 14, Neo Psychiko

10. Psariston – Neo Irakleio

Chef Vasilis Akrivos highlights the best of the market daily. From prawns and lobster to oysters and clams, dishes are prepared raw or cooked with creativity. Don’t miss the fried taramosalata—a humble dish elevated to poetic perfection.

Address: Kalavryton 16, Neo Irakleio

11. Nonnas – Plaka

In the tourist-favorite Plaka, Nonnas delivers authentic Greek cuisine with modern flair. For Clean Monday, the regular menu gains Lenten touches, plus live music enhances the festive atmosphere. Dishes include stuffed grape leaves with tahini, lemony beans with grilled calamari, fried squid with dill emulsion, steamed mussels with coconut milk, grilled octopus with tortiglioni, and linguine al limone with fresh clams.

Address: Filomousou Etairias Square 3, Plaka