Brunch has become a favourite weekend ritual in Athens, with cafés and all-day spots putting their own spin on everything from eggs Benedict and pancakes to Greek-inspired egg dishes, sourdough sandwiches and specialty coffee. For visitors, it is also a great way to slow down between sightseeing and explore some of the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods.
From leafy courtyards in Psyrri to coffee-focused spots in Thissio, these are some of the places worth knowing when you are looking for a good brunch in central Athens.
Picky – Psyrri
Tucked away in Psyrri, Picky combines specialty coffee with a relaxed brunch menu in a leafy courtyard setting. The menu covers plenty of brunch favourites, including eggs Benedict, pancakes, granola and yoghurt bowls, as well as shakshuka and other savoury options. Its coffee is a major part of the experience, with beans sourced from countries including Guatemala, Colombia and Brazil. It is a particularly nice choice if you are exploring Psyrri, Monastiraki and the historic centre on foot.
Usurum – Thissio
For a more substantial brunch, Usurum is a popular all-day spot in the heart of Thissio. Its menu brings together familiar brunch classics and more generous plates, from Eggs Benedict on sourdough and shakshouka to blueberry pancakes and a steak open sandwich. There is also a full drinks menu, making it easy to turn brunch into a long, leisurely afternoon. The relaxed atmosphere and hidden garden make it particularly appealing after a morning exploring the historic centre.
The Underdog – Thissio
If good coffee is just as important as the food, The Underdog is worth adding to your Athens itinerary. Located in a beautifully restored building in Thissio, the specialty coffee roastery pairs its coffee with an unfussy brunch menu. Expect dishes such as scrambled eggs with avocado and crispy bacon on sourdough, along with pancakes and changing pastry options. Its location also makes it a convenient stop after a walk around Thissio or the Acropolis area.
The Makers – Syntagma
Just a short walk from Syntagma Square, The Makers offers a modern take on brunch in a minimalist space that doubles as a design shop. The menu includes scrambled eggs on sourdough, waffles topped with a fried egg, cheddar and ham, as well as acai bowls and other lighter options. It is a good choice for travellers who want to stay close to the main sights while stepping away from the more tourist-oriented cafés around Syntagma and Monastiraki.
The Brunchers – Monastiraki
The name says it all: The Brunchers is dedicated to the late-morning meal and sits just steps from Monastiraki Square. Eggs take centre stage, with options ranging from Eggs Benedict with bacon, pastrami or smoked salmon to poached eggs with avocado and Greek-inspired combinations featuring Mykonos pork and aged graviera. There is also a generous selection of pancakes for those with a sweet tooth. With its central location, it is an easy option to combine with a morning exploring Monastiraki and Psyrri.
Minu – Psyrri
Part café, part concept store and surrounded by greenery, Minu offers a slightly different brunch experience in Psyrri. Its leafy interior and peaceful back garden provide a welcome break from the busy streets outside, while the weekend brunch menu includes dishes such as poached eggs with avocado and chilli, along with seasonal plates, pastries and sweets. It is the kind of place where brunch can easily turn into a slow morning over coffee, particularly if you are exploring the neighbourhood at a relaxed pace.
A Different Side of Athens Brunch
One of the best things about brunch in central Athens is how easily it fits into a day of sightseeing. You can start with coffee and eggs in Psyrri, wander through Monastiraki and the historic centre, or make your way towards Thissio and the Acropolis afterwards.
And while classic brunch favourites are firmly established in the city, many Athenian cafés are giving them a local character through Greek cheeses, cured meats, sourdough breads and dishes such as strapatsada and shakshouka. Whether you are after a relaxed coffee and pastry or a long brunch that carries you into the afternoon, central Athens has plenty of options to choose from.
