Loukoumades: Athens' Honey-Drizzled Doughnuts
A guide to loukoumades in Athens, from their ancient origins and how they are made to the best toppings and where to find a great plate.
Loukoumades: Greece's Oldest Sweet Snack
Loukoumades are small, round fritters of yeasted dough, deep-fried until golden and crisp on the outside and soft inside, then drenched in honey syrup and dusted with cinnamon. They are served hot in a bowl, often with chopped walnuts, and are one of the most popular sweet snacks in Greece, found in specialist shops, street stalls and festivals. A good portion arrives bubbling, with the honey still warm, and the contrast between crunchy shell and airy center is addictive.
The dish is thought to be one of the oldest sweets in the Mediterranean. In ancient Greece, honey-soaked fritters called honey tokens were given as prizes to the winners of the Olympic Games, and a similar sweet appears in the writings of early Greek poets. Today, loukoumades are eaten at festivals and as a dessert or an afternoon treat, and in Athens, a few historic shops, particularly around Aiolou Street, have been making them for generations. Modern versions add toppings such as chocolate, ice cream, pistachios, caramel or fruit.
How to Order Loukoumades
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Choose a classic portion with honey and cinnamon, or add walnuts, sesame or pistachios |
| 2 | Eat them immediately, while the dough is hot and crisp, using a fork or fingers |
| 3 | Share a portion, since the honey is rich and the portions are generous |
| 4 | Pair with a Greek coffee or a glass of water to cut through the sweetness |
Where to Try Loukoumades in Athens
Krinos, on Aiolou Street near Athinas, has been making loukoumades since 1923 and is the most famous place, serving hot, fresh portions with honey, cinnamon and sesame from a counter that is usually crowded. Several other shops in the Monastiraki and Psyrri areas serve modern versions with creative toppings, from chocolate and ice cream to fruit. A portion usually costs about €4 to €8. For the best experience, order them fresh at the counter, and avoid places that serve them from trays that have been sitting out.
Order a small portion first and share. They are best eaten within a minute or two of leaving the fryer, so find a place where they are made to order.
