Brettos

Brettos is exactly the kind of place that makes you fall in love with Athens all over again. It’s been operating out of the same spot in Plaka since 1909, and somehow they’ve managed to keep the original charm intact while still feeling vibrant and alive. The moment you walk in, you’re hit by that wall of brightly lit bottles—it’s Instagram gold, sure, but it’s also a genuine testament to their obsession with spirits. The barman will happily spend 20 minutes explaining the difference between their ouzo varieties, and honestly, you’ll want to listen because this is the kind of knowledge you can’t get anywhere else.

The drinks are where Brettos truly shines. Their quadruple-distilled ouzo is smooth in a way that makes you question everything you thought you knew about the spirit, and the mastika is a perfect digestif if you’ve just finished a heavy Greek meal. They also have an impressive wine list and cocktails if you’re not in the mood for traditional spirits, but honestly, you’d be missing out if you don’t try at least one of their house distillates. The atmosphere is relaxed during the day when you can actually get the barman’s undivided attention, but it does get packed late at night—so plan accordingly if you want a proper tasting experience.

What really sets Brettos apart is the sense of history you feel just standing there. This place has seen a century of Athens change around it, from Ottoman times to modern tourism boom, and it’s still serving the same family recipes with the same warmth. It’s not fancy, it’s not pretentious, and it’s definitely not trying to be anything other than what it is: a no-nonsense bar that takes its spirits seriously. If you’re in Plaka and want to skip the overpriced tourist traps, this is your spot.