Welcome to Restaurant Athene – a little piece of Greece in the heart of Ghent, since 1980.

What began as the dream of a close-knit Greek family and a few good friends grew into a trusted address for anyone who loves real flavours, warm hospitality and an atmosphere where you instantly feel at home. For two generations we have welcomed our guests as if they were family. And by now, many of them are, a little.

Our food? Authentically Greek, the way you would taste it in a charming village on the Peloponnese – only with a view of St Bavo's Cathedral. We serve traditional dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki and grilled sea bream, made with fresh local ingredients and seasoned with love, craftsmanship and a pinch of longing for the Mediterranean. Think grandmother's cooking… but the Greek way, and cooked by men (yes, our chefs prove that a love of cooking knows no gender).

Our prices? Honest and affordable. Because good food should not be a luxury. Whether you come for a quick, hearty lunch (with a wide choice of daily specials), a cosy evening with family, a business meal or an outing with the kids – you are welcome here. Literally everyone. The wine list has something for every taste: from fresh house wines to fine Greek top wines, always at fair prices.

Inside you sit comfortably in our atmospheric main dining room, on the indoor balcony or in a quieter corner – depending on your company or your mood. In summer the air conditioning or open windows keep things cool; on chillier days we keep it warm and snug. And when the sun is out, our terrace with a view of the cathedral is an absolute must.

We know our regulars by name, and new guests usually become regulars quickly. Come and taste, come and enjoy – and let yourself be carried off to Greece without leaving the city.

We look forward to welcoming you. Kalós írthate!