The world’s most famous food festival, which takes place in more than 20 cities worldwide annually, is returning to Athens for the second year this weekend. This time it will take place at the outdoor space of the grand Zappeion Megaron, next to the National Garden, where the organisers are promising an atmosphere resembling a luxurious picnic.
For any foodie who’s new to the city, Taste of Athens is a dream come true; at no other festival or event can you meet – and sample dishes from – so many stars of the Greek gastronomy scene.
In the kitchens of fourteen pop-up tents, some of Athens’ most renowned restaurants will present special tasting menus at remarkably low prices (3-12 euro/dish). The restaurants include Michelin-starred Spondi, Hytra and Varoulko, along with the acclaimed Balthazar, Fuga, Psomi & Alati, Vezene, Birdman, Cookoovaya, FΒΚ, Artisanal, Sense Athens, Mr Pug Athens and Ergon.
(Find more information about all of the participating restaurants here, and see the menus they will be preparing here).
Aside from sampling dishes, guests can also attend seminars on various topics by world-class chefs at the Chef’s Theater, hone their cocktail mixing skills at the House of Tanqueray No. TEN and the Johnnie Walker Discovery Bar; learn the secrets of pairing food with the perfect wine; and witness unique collaborations between famous Greek and international chefs in Zappeion’s Aegli restaurant as they pair up to create new menus for the event. Meanwhile, children can join workshops and games at the Kids Zone.
Two ticket categories are available. The standard ticket costs 20 euros (or 16 euros for Diners Club International members and 15 euros per person for groups of at least five people) and includes entry to the festival, access to the Chef’s Theater, the Exhibitors Zone, the Kids Zone and the Music Stage, and 1 dish worth 3 euros.
A VIP ticket costs 50 euros (or 40 euros for Diners Club International members) and includes 1 dish worth 9 euros, plus access to the VIP Lounge, a welcome drink & oyster treat, valet parking, and entrance to the opening reception on September 19. Entrance is free for children up to six years of age.
The festival functions as a restaurant, offering 2 sessions per day: lunch from 12.00-16.00 and dinner from 18.30-22.30. Each ticket (sold here and here) is valid for one session.
