The Athenian

Hello!

We are Efthymios and Neofytos, two Londoners born and raised in Athens and Cyprus. We launched The Athenian at the end of 2014, as a small street food venture offering freshly made souvlaki prepared in the healthiest, most authentic way possible.

What is souvlaki?

Ask any Greek and they will be sure to tell you that souvlaki is our nation’s favourite food to eat on the go. A quick, healthier alternative to fast food, it consists of a pita wrap filled with grilled meat (or cheese as a vegetarian alternative) and served in a way we love. Its name comes from a medieval word, meaning ‘little skewer’, after the cooking method.

At The Athenian we start making our souvlaki by grilling tender pieces of chicken, pork or tasty Talagani cheese (think halloumi with a more refined texture and minty undertone) marinated in Greek herbs, before wrapping them in a soft, handmade pita and adding freshly chopped red onions, tomatoes, lettuce and parsley. We top things off with a choice of our perfected homemade dips: tyrokafteri (spicy feta and red pepper), tzatziki (cucumber, yogurt and garlic) or our original Souvlaki Sauce, a top secret recipe, designed to lend a subtle sweetness to the flavourings.