Modern Greek small plates with standout flavors and lively service; portions run small so plan 2–3 plates per person for a satisfying meal.
Cherchez La Femme delivers grade A performance through exceptional food quality—particularly standout octopus and moussaka—paired with attentive, knowledgeable service and appealing church-side setting. The grade reflects solid execution across dimensions, though occasional food safety concerns and recent portion-size complaints prevent higher standing. A reliable choice for elevated Greek meze in central Athens.
The room feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos, with leafy touches and a view of the cathedral across the street. Servers are often praised as cheerful and quick, and one guest put it simply: "They looked after us and kept the plates coming." Outdoor tables make for great people-watching in the heart of Athens. In the kitchen, this is Greek cooking polished rather than pretentious—classic meze and mains with subtle lifts like sumac on sea bass or a chilled red pepper soup. Portions are intentionally small, so plan on sharing two to three plates each if hungry. It suits diners who enjoy bright, produce-forward flavors and an easy rhythm more than heavy comfort platters, and desserts like ekmek or house cream puffs add a sweet finish. Families do fine here thanks to familiar staples like chicken souvlaki, fried potatoes with cheese, grilled talagani, pastitsio, and simple salads. There is no explicit kids menu on the provided list, but the menu offers approachable options for younger palates; just expect smaller portions and order accordingly.
Area vibe: Central, historic-core corridor near cathedral; lively pedestrian flow, mixed locals and visitors, bistro-lined streets.
Safety: Generally safe, busy and well-lit; occasional street solicitation reported near outdoor tables.
What's nearby: Steps from Mitropoleos Square and Plaka; churches, boutiques, hotels and sights within minutes.
Standouts include grilled Octopus, silky Fava, and comfort mains like Moussaka or Pastitsio, with Ekmek for dessert.
It’s a casual spot that fills up and gets noisy at night, portions are small, and there’s a drinks-only seating policy to watch for.
A stylish, warm room with a church-side patio and lively, music-driven energy that keeps the pace upbeat.