The local and traditional Greek tavernas in Athens Greece are plentiful and a cultural mainstay. There are hundreds in Plaka, Monastiraki, Psirri, Piraeus, Kypseli and Petralona. However, many contemporary chefs have taken over the reins and introduced the concept of gourmet tavernas. Here you will find dishes that are driven by ingredients indigenous to what has become known as the Mediterranean diet or flavours from various parts of Greece: olive oil from Crete, organic vegetables and fruits and herbs and honey desserts from the different villages. Chefs and owners have created menus that use simple Greek ingredients to create complex dishes full of flavour. They are a must to explore and experience. Psirri is where you will find the most popular Greek, ethnic and mainstream venues that combine dining and nightlife. But the concept is widespread and restaurants in Plaka, Monastiraki, and tavernas in the southern and northern suburbs of Athens, also feature restaurants with live music. Greek meat-driven concept restaurants are also very popular. Clusters of these types of tavernas can be found in Varibombi, Thrakomakedones, Likovrisi, Stamata, Vlachika, Vari and Glyfada.