One of the biggest surprises for American and British travelers visiting Greece is how affordable eating out can be — especially compared to restaurant prices back home. While Greece has a reputation for luxury island dining, everyday restaurant costs are often far lower than in the US or UK.
This guide compares restaurant prices in Greece vs the US and UK, using real-world examples so you know exactly what to expect — whether you’re grabbing a quick meal or sitting down for a long seaside dinner.
The Big Picture: Is Eating Out Cheaper in Greece?
Yes — in most cases, significantly.
For US and UK travelers, Greece offers:
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Lower menu prices
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Larger portions
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Fewer hidden charges
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Less pressure to tip
Even in tourist areas, prices often remain reasonable compared to major cities like New York, London, San Francisco, or Manchester.
Casual Dining: Taverns & Local Restaurants
Greece
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Main dish (taverna): €10–16 ($11–17 / £9–14)
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Shared meze plate: €6–9 ($6.50–10 / £5–8)
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House wine (½ liter): €5–7 ($5.50–7.50 / £4–6)
United States
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Casual restaurant main: $18–28
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Appetizer: $10–15
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Wine (glass): $12–18
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United Kingdom
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Pub or casual dining main: £14–22
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Starter: £6–9
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Wine (glass): £7–10
Verdict: A full taverna meal in Greece often costs 40–60% less than a comparable meal in the US or UK.
Street Food & Quick Eats
Greece
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Gyros or souvlaki wrap: €4–5 ($4.35–5.45 / £3.50–4.30)
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Spinach or cheese pie: €2–3 ($2.20–3.25 / £1.70–2.60)
United States
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Street food or fast casual: $10–15
United Kingdom
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Takeaway meal: £7–12
For budget-conscious travelers, Greece is one of the best food-value destinations in Europe.
Mid-Range & Upscale Dining
Greece
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Three-course meal (mid-range): €20–30 ($22–33 / £17–26)
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Seafood restaurant (per person): €25–40 ($27–43 / £21–34)
United States
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Mid-range dinner: $35–60+
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Seafood dining: $45–70+
United Kingdom
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Mid-range dinner: £25–40
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Seafood dining: £30–50
Even upscale Greek restaurants often feel reasonably priced to US and UK visitors — especially outside high-end islands.
Drinks, Coffee & Extras
| Item | Greece | US | UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee (café) | €3–4 | $5–7 | £3.50–4.50 |
| Beer (restaurant) | €4–5 | $7–9 | £5–6 |
| Dessert | €4–6 | $8–12 | £6–8 |
Another big difference: you’re rarely rushed in Greece. You can sit for hours without pressure to order more.
Tipping: A Major Cost Difference
Greece
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Tipping is optional, not expected (learn more for Tipping in Greece)
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Rounding up or leaving 5–10% is generous
United States
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Tipping 15–25% is expected
United Kingdom
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10–12.5% often added automatically
For Americans especially, the absence of mandatory tipping makes dining out feel noticeably cheaper.
Where Prices Rise in Greece
Greece becomes more expensive when you:
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Choose restaurants with sunset views in peak season
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Order imported wines or premium cocktails
Even then, prices are often comparable to — not higher than — the US or UK.
How to Eat Well for Less in Greece
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Choose tavernas one or two streets away from waterfronts
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Order meze to share
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Drink house wine instead of bottled imports
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Eat your main meal at lunch — portions are the same, prices often lower
Final Verdict: Greece vs US & UK Restaurant Prices
For American and British travelers, Greece is consistently more affordable when it comes to eating out. From street food to full sit-down meals, you get better value, simpler pricing, and a more relaxed dining experience.
Food is one of the areas where Greece truly shines — not just for flavor, but for value.
