Athens

The elaborate and innovative seafood dishes are worth it: the cool, modern setting includes a summer roof terrace with Acropolis views. — Rough Guide

Spondi has two Michelin stars to show for the efforts of chef Arnaud Bignon, and serves superb French-influenced cuisine, with fish a speciality. — Rough Guide

Sleek, dazzlingly decorated, and moodily lit, this bistro attracts many style-conscious Athenians. — Fodor's

This is probably the only place in the capital you'll get to eat spiny chicory, or see calamari, spinach, beets, and berries on the same plate—and enjoy eating it. — Concierge

Another plus: music is often in the air—on weekend afternoons, you can enjoy accordion music (and the waiters' impromptu piano accompaniment!). — Fodor's

Manimani strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and heartiness. — Fodor's

It's worth a taxi ride to this long-time local favourite known for its fresh crayfish, eaten in a giant pile. Indulge in whatever's fresh at this off-the-beaten-path, casual gem. — Lonely Planet

Relying on traditional recipes from Thrace, Roumeli, Thessaly, and the islands, the chefs here whip up what may be the best Greek home-style cooking in Athens. — Fodor's

Indoors, the walls are decorated with great old black and white photos and outside, tables spread beneath a shady plane tree (platanos means plane tree). — Frommer's

Sophisticated restaurant with a bustling atmosphere, polished service, a small upstairs cocktail bar and a stunning terrace boasting sea and island views. — Michelin Guide

Modern and, for Exárhia, upmarket place serving excellent, modern Greek food with Asian influences. Pleasant courtyard too. — Rough Guide

In winter, sit inside, surrounded by blue, white and grey hues; in summer, head out to the courtyard and well-spaced tables surrounded by lush green plants. — Michelin Guide

Set in the foothills of Mount Lycabettus, this casual eatery serves fresh seafood dishes from local celebrity chef Argiro Barbarigou. — Travel + Leisure

The main draw is the freshness of the ingredients from all over the country, sent directly to the restaurant via airplane from the fishing boats. — Frommer's

Fine dining with fine panoramic views is the selling point of this elegant upscale restaurant on Lykavittos, with excellent Greek-influenced Mediterranean cuisine. — Lonely Planet

My favourite gyros shop looks like a tourist trap, but it's reasonably priced and fantastic. — Afar Magazine

This rustic tavern dates back to 1898 and is found on a side street near The Acropolis. — Michelin Guide

It is renowned for its good service, marble tables and fresh seafood mezédes like mussels saganáki, paella and fried gávros (anchovies). — DK Eyewitness