The 11 Best Greek Restaurants NYC

Greeks have a long-standing love affair with seafood; therefore, it’s no wonder fish is an integral part of their diet. If you want to indulge in Greek seafood, Taverna Kyclades in Astoria is a place you must visit.

This authentic Psarotaverna in N.Y.C. offers some of the best Greek seafood delicacies you can ask for. Everything from the fish to other ingredients is seasonal. To boost the flavor, they also provide an extensive list of wines to choose from. Don’t worry about going over budget, as everything is reasonably priced.

The food, cozy ambiance, and low-key atmosphere are also part of Taverna Kyclades’ charm. Here are some guaranteed dishes you’ll love:

Estiatorio translates to an authentic restaurant. So, if you’re looking for a Greek-style fine dining experience, consider Loi Estiatorio in Midtown. This restaurant was the brainchild of Greek celebrity chefs Maria Loi and Arno Mueller. Through this eatery, they wanted to introduce the taste of the authentic Mediterranean region.

While most eateries rely on setting up plates with complex dishes, Loi Estitorio doesn’t. Their success lies in simplicity. Using seasonal ingredients, they ensure freshness and quality.

Apart from the food, the dining area is also simple yet attractive. The ambiance fits well for casual lunches. Consider trying out these dishes if you’re there for lunch:

Pylos doesn’t sound all that savory; even the Greeks would agree, as it translates to clay pots. But this East Village Estiatorio puts these claims to rest. Featured in the Michelin guide, it’s a destination worth a visit.

As one of the best greek restaurants nyc, Pylos offers New Yorkers authentic Greek cuisine. A single bite will transport you to a little cozy hut in the Cyclades, with the gentle breeze from the beach.

Pylos’ ambiance only enhances the illusion. The whitewashed walls, lapis blue insets, and stark-white crockery give it a rustic Mediterranean appearance. The Taverna’s ceiling features suspended terra cot pots, which give it its name.

While the restaurant is a must-visit destination, reserve a spot online to enjoy the great food with its stunning ambiance. Here are some recommendations worth checking out:

Greek food is hard to come by in N.Y.C., with only a few restaurants offering an authentic experience. If you’re looking for a place to fine-dine with family, we recommend Aliada restaurant.

This Greek Taverna boasts enough room to serve not only your family and friends. The exterior sidewalk seating also has something special. The sidewalk is fenced with herb planters, which act as natural air fresheners while you dine on your meal.

But the ambiance isn’t the only good thing here. They serve stellar traditional Greek and Cypriot dishes made using the freshest ingredients. Whether you want meat, vegetables, or seafood, they have something special for everyone.

Here are some recommendations you should try:

Tucked away in the West Village, Snack Taverna has been a go-to spot for lovers of Greek cuisine since 2003. Its warm and intimate vibe makes it perfect for date nights or casual dinners with friends.

You’ll find traditional and modern Greek dishes that will leave you wanting more, especially when paired with one of their excellent Greek wines starting at just $8 a glass. This little gem knows how to balance authenticity and creativity, making it one of the best greek restaurants nyc.

If you do visit Snack Taverna, here are some great recommendations to get started:

Visit Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna to taste authentic Greek cuisine. While not as big as other tavernas and Estiatorio on the list, it complements it with a tremendous Greek taste.

Stepping in, you’ll feel like you’ve come into a small house in Greece. Greek paintings decorate the wall while the tables are covered with red-checkered tablecloths. Apart from the décor, the food is also great. Its appearance and taste give it a home-cooked feeling. Some dishes you need to try out include:

Fine dining is usually associated with French cuisine. They were the ones who developed several cooking and presentation techniques. Most French restaurants nyc are all about fine dining, but if you’re looking for a taste of Greek and an upscale dinner, Eléa is your prime destination.

Fitted with whitewashed walls and pretty lighting in a bi-level space, this Greek restaurant in N.Y.C. offers a rustic appearance. The upper space is made into a bar area, whereas the basement is a dining area reserved for groups. Due to the large area, it’s one upscale diner where you won’t have to wait long for a table. You’ll have a little wait time and a spot for you and your friends to enjoy their meal.

It’s not just the ambiance that makes the restaurant special; the food here is top-notch. Eléa does everything to serve authentic Greek cuisines that are easy on the eyes and savory on the tongue. Some recommendations worth trying include:

If you’re looking for a spot with deep roots in N.Y.C.’s Greek dining scene, Periyali is the place to be. Since 1987, this restaurant has seen trends come and go but has maintained its charm while evolving.

After a facelift in 2006, it combines the old-school Greek feel with a modern, upscale touch. It still serves what many consider the best “modern Greek cuisine” in the city. The vibe is lively, and the big back room is perfect for hosting parties—ideal if you have a special celebration.

Consider trying out these Periyali specials:

For those who crave authentic Greek cuisine, Yefsi on the Upper East Side is a culinary gem that doesn’t disappoint. This spot might be a little fancier, but it’s worth the splurge when ready for a memorable meal.

The ambiance may not blow you away, but the food definitely will. They serve classic Greek dishes with a spot-on flavor, making it one of the best options in the neighborhood. Trust us, it’s worth a visit.

Here’s what you can order if it’s your first time ordering at a Greek restaurant in N.Y.C.:

Souvlaki GR is your go-to spot for quick, tasty, and inexpensive Greek cuisine. What started as a late-night hot spot has become a reliable choice for anyone craving Greek street food. This Lower East Side gem doesn’t try to be fancy – it’s all about serving delicious, no-frills dishes that hit the spot, especially after a night out.

If you’re looking for brunch at a Greek restaurant in N.Y.C. that hits all the right notes, Ovelia Psistaria Bar in Astoria is your perfect choice. This restaurant offers traditional and Greek-inspired brunch dishes to keep you coming back. It has a cozy outdoor area and a massive bar, ideal for a relaxed weekend morning with friends.