Smaragda’s, named after its owner, is a genuine and charming Greek fish tavern tucked away on a quiet street-corner in Pefki (a northern suburb of Athens) serving fresh seafood, flavorsome homemade appetizers as well as many other local delicacies!
Actually this fish tavern has been on my Athens top 10 restaurant list for many consequent years . . . which is saying a lot!
The décor is simple and relaxed with tables set up in a covered veranda (see photo above) or inside in a more cozy, homey kind of atmosphere . . . that I really like! Most importantly however, their fresh food and consistency of taste are hard to resist and are in my opinion the benchmarks of what a good restaurant should have.
The fish at Smaragda’s is always fresh, well cooked, moist and tasty! However, to be totally honest with you . . . my husband and I don't go there so much for the fish but instead, on week-ends only, the best fish soup in town which is packed with flavor, fish and finely chopped veggies . . . just the way we like it!
I also love the small dolmadakia (rice stuffed wine leaves) and the fried, well seasoned revythokeftedes (chickpea balls) . . . that are truly outstanding!
The selection of salads could be a bit more exciting . . . so if you like a plateful of healthiness order the Horta (steamed greens) which are always good; especially when served with grilled or fried calamari or fish or . . . whatever else you may fancy!
To end the meal you will be offered a complimentary sweet are always homemade and often include one of my preferred Greek desserts; Halva (semolina pudding) with or without raisins and always dusted with plenty of ground cinnamon . . . YUM!
Last but not least, please note that this restaurant, adored by its faithful local clientele, can be extremely busy on special holidays or for Sunday lunch. So, I would recommend making a booking prior to visiting it!
Smaragda Fish Tavern
Address:
Nikolaou Plastira & 24 Pindou Street
Pefki, 151 21 Athens, Greece
Tel: +30 21 0805 6379
Opening Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 19.00 – 00.30
Sunday: 12.00 – 17.30
Mondays Closed