The National

TLDR: fine dining worth the price tag, save for a special occasion so you can splurge or grab drinks, appetizers, and dessert to make it a bit more affordable

I had been eyeing this spot for over 6 months before I felt like I had an reason special enough to eat here. I came here to celebrate getting a job in Athens and it was worth the wait.

My partner and I sat at the bar so we could see the entire restaurant and be close and personal with the staff, all who were friendly, personable, and excellent.

Patatas bravas were a favorite of mine when traveling in Spain and The National’s spin on this traditional appetizer is spectacular.
It paired nicely with this pomegranate vodka drink the bartender made for me, an off menu option if you ask nicely.

We had a delightful desert of pistachio ice cream, vanilla cake, and strawberry glaze.

Several items on the menu change with the seasons so check online before you venture here. Everything they make is high quality and delicious, but you might not be able to order the same items we got when we went.

I look forward to returning for my next big life celebration!

I came back with my sister in November of 2021 for drinks, apps, and dessert and we had a great time! We were able to sit outside socially distanced and stay warm with the heaters they have. The staff were all super kind and quick with everything. The cocktails were incredible, the appetizers delightful, and the ice cream was the perfect finish to a great day.

My spouse and I love the national for any ocassion. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable of the menu. We were there in February and my favorite part of the menu was the Spring Chicken with vegetables. Every bite tasted exquisite! Love the wine and cocktail menu. Small building, small bar, but feels very cozy.

Terrible experience! My one year anniversary was celebrated here and it was a disaster. The menu lacks flavor, and the waitress wasn't attentive at all. My salad came out with little to no dressing on it and by the time she came back with the dressing my boyfriend's meal was finished and I asked for the check at that point.... never got the check from the waitress. Instead had to ask the lovely hostess to bring it to us, which she did right away with no problems.

The only complement I have is the Sweet Dreams gin drink was very tasty, but not worth 13 bucks for it came in the smallest cocktail glass made.

Always an awesome experience and delicious food. I haven't been in a couple of years but plan to come regularly again.

The National in Athens was a great spot to enjoy a fun dinner with friends that provided dishes which were more inventive and exciting than most in the area. The menu is mediterranean biased and arranged in smaller but sharable dishes. Even with this the the restaurant strives to source local ingredients. This desire and intimate atmosphere give a local cafe feel that can easily serve as a date or relaxing night out which is very different than most in Athens. I appreciated the attention to highlighting some hard to find ingredients and overall the night was a pleasant one. If in town they are worth while seeking out a reservation!

The National is awesome. Beautiful space, great service, local ingredients. It is not at all expensive for the quality of food you get there. The bar is adorable and a great place for a quick snack. Go to The National!

The cuisine is simply extraordinary and the service superb. The chefs transform ordinary foods--in this case mahi, squid, and kale--and prepare them in indescribably creative and delicious ways. The sauvignon blanc and the dessert tarts were exquisite. And the total bill for the two of us (we did share the entree) was barely over $100. The perfect 18th anniversary dinner celebration. ❤️

Came for lunch on a Thursday. We had a reservation and were glad we did, as we were a party of 6. I had the chicken salad which I highly recommend. The flavors are wonderful and the thinly sliced chicken moist. The red pepper bisque was also a very nice blend of flavors. Others in the party enjoyed the catfish sandwich and the club sandwich, and all agreed that they're French fries get an A rating. Our waiter was attentive and not intrusive. And the atmosphere is wonderful. My only downside would be the noise level, but not really sure what could be done for that. I think we will request a table up against a wall or window next time.

Went for a date. Had to leave early but everything was wonderful until I left. Desserts looked amazing! Will be back to try sometime soon I hope.

Must eat for any resident or foodie visiting Athens.

From the moment I walked in the door, the subtle modern design elements mixed with the industrial facets of the building displayed the space's features beautifully.

I started out with a cheese plate and it was worth the price of admission! Sweetgrass was the best IMO

The patatas fratas was just ok, would be great in a group where many people could enjoy it.

Red pepper Hummus With Lamb was🔥🔥🔥- a must try!!

I deliberated over the braised rabbit and hanger steak and went with the rabbit. I didn't regret my choice as it was so tasty and tender and the pasta cooked to perfection.

Had Mango Sorbet with lime zest for dessert, the lime zest is something I'm going to use to spice up ice cream at home from now on!!

If you like good food, this is a definite must go to for anyone living in Athens or just visiting for a day.

I went a little overboard, 3 tapas, 4 drinks, 1 entree 1 dessert, and my bill was still under 100$

**Second Time I went in right at closing, something i had never done, but the staff was so nice and served us like we were the first people there. My grandmother had just passed and it was first meal out post that event and the staff at the National couldn't of been more accommodating to our family. Will be coming back again and again