Nightclubs in Greece

Nightclubs that feature laïkó music in Greece are popularly called bouzoukia (deriving from the plural of the main Greek instrument bouzouki).

The best tables are immediately adjacent to the stage and in the center ("proto trapezi pista"), and are always reserved for rich and famous (i.e. high-spending) customers.

Many prominent Greeks were known for their habit of visiting bouzoukia, notably the late tycoon Aristotle Onassis, and the former Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou.

In the late 20th century, new nightclubs became more prominent to accommodate more pop programs, thus instead of tables and meals the set up is more like a typical dance club or small concert venue to be more interactive.

These venues are less prominent as very few artists would be able to fit into this category of musicians in Greece and traditional practices such as serving alcohol and throwing flowers are still maintained.