Soft pita bread, marinated meat, fresh tzatziki and crunchy vegetables: souvláki is a Greek street food classic that seduces with its simplicity, generosity and a nice pretence of a balanced dish. But there’s a lot more to Greek cuisine than just the best sandwiches. In Luxembourg City, as in the surrounding area, there are a number of places where you can indulge in a convivial atmosphere. From the long list, here are five restaurants where you can satisfy your Mediterranean cravings.
Souvlaki The Original
Souvlaki The Original is the place to go for a convivial meal. (Photo: Alix Bellac)
This is one of the station’s must-visit spots if you’re hungry for a bite to eat with friends or colleagues. Souvlaki The Original is the brainchild of Christos and Luc. And you’re guaranteed never to be disappointed. While the decor is fairly basic, with a canteen feel, people come for the cleanliness of the place, the fast, friendly service and the delicious food. Lots of people when you arrive? Nevermind, the tables soon become free and, in fine weather, you can even have lunch outside on their small terrace.
Address: 1, rue du Fort Bourbon, 1249 Luxembourg (gare)
Nostos
This trendy gastro restaurant communicates under a banner of purveyor of Mediterranean food, but this is really Greek gastronomy. The reviews are, for the most part, complimentary, but… you have to find the right day for the dish… of the day, which can offer relative value for money, as the quantities are not always there. There’s also a “but”, because we’ve been told that prices have gone up since Nostos became Gault&Millau’s Mediterranean Restaurant of the Year. It’s true that €8 for a bowl of olives to nibble on while you wait for your meal is a bit steep. Be that as it may, aficionados shrug their shoulders and point out that the beef cheek is remarkable and the Greek salad transports you straight to Milos. Not to mention the discreet, elegant welcome or the advice when it comes to pairing food and wine.
Address: 61, rue des Trevires, 2628 Luxembourg (Bonnevoie)
Athena
A well-known institution in the station area, Athena offers traditional Greek cuisine in a cosy setting. Their souvlákis, served on skewers or in garnished pita breads, feature tender meat marinated to perfection. The homemade tzatziki, which is particularly fresh, adds the essential creamy touch to any Greek gastronomic session. You’ll also appreciate the generous portions and attentive service. A sure bet for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The room is even large enough to accommodate small groups of colleagues or friends almost every day.
Address: 56, rue Adolphe Fischer, 1520 Luxembourg (Gare)
Ambrosia
The Ambrosia is ideally located to round off a day of culture or shopping. The place is well known to all the country’s gourmets. (Photo: Ambrosia)
At Ambrosia, located right in the city centre, opposite the French Embassy, you might expect a handsome Greek ephebe to turn up and serve you the best moussakas. The restaurant takes a more contemporary approach to Greek cuisine. Souvlákis are prepared à la minute, with particular attention paid to the quality of the produce. Chicken, pork or vegetarian versions: there’s something for everyone. The meticulous presentation and seasonal terrace add to the pleasure. An ideal address for a gourmet break between two appointments, during a shopping spree or on a romantic evening when the restaurant takes on a more intimate feel.
Address: 10, rue Notre Dame, 2249 Luxembourg Ville-Haute
Maison du Meze
Meze is often associated with Lebanon, but this is a restaurant of Greek delicacies. The place has a family atmosphere. The souvlákis are tasty and well grilled, accompanied by fresh salads and homemade sauces. Everything is available to eat in or take away. The restaurant is appreciated for its consistency and friendliness. An excellent option for a gourmet meal after work or at the weekend, where families have always had their habits.
Address: 167, route d’Arlon, 8009 Strassen
Whether in a traditional or revisited version, Greek cuisine, and souvláki in particular, has found its place in Luxembourg. These addresses prove that this joyful and balanced cuisine appeals to a wide range of people. Would you like to discover or rediscover it? All you have to do is choose the location for your next gourmet getaway. As for Demis Roussos’s waistline… If it’s stretching you, rest assured, it would take a lot more than a few gourmet forays to feed the same.
