Tiki Bar Athens

Tiki Bar Athens has been bringing a South Pacific mood to Koukaki since 2007, and it describes itself as the original tiki bar in the city. It is on Falirou Street, across from the Acropolis Museum, and the official city guide lists it among the best cocktail bars in Athens, noting its relaxed, loud and fun atmosphere and its retro decor with a 1980s feel.

The drinks are exotic tiki cocktails, and the classics are the ones to try first. The official city guide singles out the Zombies and Mai Tais as popular choices, both rum-based drinks closely associated with tiki culture. The bar also serves food inspired by many different cuisines, so you can eat as well as drink without moving on.

Music is a big part of the experience. DJs play upbeat music from all decades, and in winter the bar hosts a few selected live gigs, which draw a local crowd. The playful tropical theme and the music make it a good choice for a cheerful night out with friends rather than a quiet date, and the atmosphere becomes livelier as the evening goes on.

Tiki Bar Athens suits groups of friends, students and visitors staying in Koukaki who want an easy-going bar close to their hotel. Prices are moderate. It is also a practical stop after a late visit to the Acropolis Museum, which stays open until 22:00 on Fridays. Opening hours are not listed on the official city guide or the bar's own site, so check before making a special trip.

The bar is a short walk from Akropoli metro station on Line 2 and from Syngrou-Fix on the same line. Koukaki's streets are full of tavernas, cafés and other bars, and the pedestrian avenue of Dionysiou Areopagitou, which leads around the Acropolis, is just to the north, so it is easy to combine an evening walk below the rock with a cocktail here. The bar's tropical theme and decor are a deliberate contrast with the ancient sights nearby, which is part of the fun after a day spent among ruins and museums, and the live winter gigs are a good way to catch local musicians.