Discovering AVLI Taverna in Athens: The Backyard Taverna That Locals Keep a Secret

🌿 What Is AVLI Taverna?

“Avli” means courtyard in Greek — and true to its name, this taverna is set in a leafy little backyard tucked between old buildings in the heart of Psiri, near Monastiraki.

There are no neon signs or fancy menus. Just mismatched chairs, potted plants, and tables full of Athenians actually enjoying themselves, not posing for the ’gram.

It’s cash-only, unpretentious, and full of flavor. If tavernas had love languages, this one’s would be grilled meat and red wine in tin cups.

📍 Where Is It?

AVLI is low-key hidden. You’ll find it at:

Agiou Dimitriou 12, Psiri, Athens

• Closest Metro: Monastiraki

• Look for an unmarked doorway with a few wooden chairs outside. Go through the hallway and boom — you’re in someone’s backyard... who just happens to make killer tzatziki.

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🍽️ What’s on the Menu?

No QR codes. No avocado toast. Just classic Greek comfort food that feels like Sunday lunch at a yiayia’s house.

Must-Try Dishes:

• 🧆 Kolokithokeftedes (zucchini fritters): crispy, fluffy, perfect

• 🍖 Paidakia (grilled lamb chops): seasoned simply, grilled to perfection

• 🥗 Horiatiki (village salad): tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes

• 🧄 Garlicky tzatziki: comes in buckets (almost)

• 🧀 Fried saganaki: golden, salty, stretchy goodness

• 🍷 House wine in tin pitchers: no label, just vibes

Most dishes cost between €5–€10, and you can easily feast for under €20 per person.

🪑 The Vibe

Imagine this:

• Greek grandpa smoking under a fig tree

• Two friends arguing passionately over who ordered the ouzo

• Plates clinking, someone laughing too loud

• You, in the corner, thinking "Wait... this is the Greece I came for."

There’s no background music — just forks, chatter, and the occasional meow from a local cat named... probably Dimitris.

🤫 Why You’ve Probably Never Heard of It

Because it’s:

• Not on TikTok (yet)

• Not “influencer cute”

• Not listed on major foodie maps

• Doesn’t take reservations

• Cash only

It’s the kind of place locals don’t really want to talk about because they’re afraid tourists will overrun it. So, you didn’t hear it from us… 😉

🕰️ When to Go

• Lunch: Quieter and ideal for a midday Greek feast

• Evenings (after 8 p.m.): Busier, livelier, way more fun

• Weekends: Packed with locals — arrive early to snag a table

💡 Pro tip: No phone orders, no apps, no delivery. Just show up.

🔥 Insider Tips

• 💸 Cash only — no card machine, no negotiations

• 🐾 Pet-friendly — the courtyard is casual and open

• 🌡️ Best in spring/fall — the outdoor vibe hits different

• 📷 Don’t over-photo it — this place lives better in your memory than your grid

• 👕 Come casual — nobody’s judging your sandals

FAQs

Do they speak English?

Enough to take your order and throw a joke or two your way. You’ll be fine.

Can I make a reservation?

Nope — it’s first come, first served. Classic taverna rules.

Is it vegetarian-friendly?Y

es! Plenty of options like Greek salads, dips, fried cheese, and veggie fritters.

Is it good for groups?

Absolutely — just arrive early to grab enough space.

Go for the Food, Stay for the Vibe

AVLI isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a little slice of old Athens tucked into a courtyard that feels like someone’s secret backyard party. It’s loud, a little messy, deliciously unpolished, and totally unforgettable.

If you’re tired of overpriced rooftop mezze with a side of selfie sticks, let AVLI hit reset on your Greek food experience. No hashtags needed — just a full stomach and a wine-stained grin.

🔍 Looking for more under-the-radar Athens gems? Subscribe for real-deal local recs — no tourist traps, just tzatziki.