Psariston Seafood Tavern, Athens, Greece – Ψάριστον

I have started going to this tavern in 2004. It was colleagues from Thessaloniki who took me there, and started drinking tsipouro from the moment they sat down. Apparently the owner – chef is from the North and serves two types of tsipouro, with and without anise (Pimpinella anisum). But this is not about tsipouro, it is about seafood, so I better get down to it!

Over the four years that I visit the tavern regularly, it has evolved for the better and is now at a level that I can recommend it as one of the best seafood places in Athens, without any doubt.

Its name plays with two greek words, one being “psari” ie fish and the other “ariston” ie best. By combining the two words, the imaginative owners imply that they serve the best fish, “ps-ari-ston”, a word that does not exist in the greek dictionary. But this is not about language, it is about seafood, so I better get down to it!

The inside of the tavern is – on purpose – a kitsch assortment of above average proportions. In a strange way, you have the feeling you are on an island.

The “Psariston” salad is quite fresh and creative, as it has tomatoes, some feta cheese, olive oil, capers, parseley, balsamico and lightly marinated gavros.

The “married fava” dish is also very good, as it combines the “fava” with tomatoes, onions, ans capers.

The octopus dish that came next is another interesting combination: sliced grilled octopus, hot peppers, crushed feta cheese and fresh tomato cubes all in one!

The grilled “chtenia” came next, they were juicy and loaded with flavour! (I cannot translate their name.)

Finally, the medium sized grilled squid was tender and sweet. Perfect!

Practical Info. The tavern is right next to the AB Grocery Store opposite the Olympic Stadium on Kimis Avenue. It is better to call in advance so that they give you instructions, or even better, get a taxi, so that you can enjoy the good ouzo and wine served.

Psariston, Kalavriton 16, Neo Herakleio,