Top Greek Eateries in NYC | Best Greek Restaurants
Start a food journey through New York City. Its busy streets are home to true Greek culinary gems. This guide highlights top Greek spots in NYC. From Astoria’s cozy tavernas to fancy Greek spots in Manhattan, there’s a lot to explore. Ready for a feast? Enjoy traditional dishes like spanakopita and moussaka, along with new twists on Mediterranean favorites.
Introduction to NYC’s Greek Dining Scene
New York City is famous for its lively Greek dining scene. It blends traditional Greek cooking with New York’s fast-paced life. This started in the 1870s with Greek immigrants from Sparta moving to the city. Many more arrived from places like Crete, Aegean islands, Cyprus, Athens, and Thessaloniki, especially after the 1960s. They brought Greek culture to New York’s food scene.
Astoria is known for its Greek heritage. About 20 Greek restaurants are there, showing the history and culture. If you’re looking for authentic Greek food in NYC, Astoria is where you should go. Zenon Restaurant serves Cypriot food since 1988, and Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna offers a menu that’s both diverse and affordable.
Plaka Restaurant in Bay Ridge is famous for its tasty dishes. These include pita sandwiches, and pork and lamb shish kebabs. Periyali, almost 30 years old, made Greek dining upscale with menus featuring grilled octopus. It stands proud among high-end Italian and French restaurants.
Greek diners started to appear in the 1940s. They offer American food, but also have Greek favorites like spinach pies and moussaka. This mix of foods shows how Greek dining has become a part of New York.
Pylos in the East Village is visually stunning, with clay pots covering the ceiling. It captures the spirit of Greece. Molyvos, which opened in 1997 in Midtown West, focuses on Mediterranean cuisine. It appeals to those who like fresh, wholesome food.
The range of Greek food in NYC is wide. We have Gregory’s for budget-friendly meals and Molyvos for fine dining. As we explore more, we’ll see the variety and richness that make up NYC’s Greek food scene.
Pylos: A Must-Visit in East Village
Pylos is a top Greek restaurant in NYC, especially known for its food and real Grecian feel. It’s in the city’s lively East Village. Here, diners get a deep dive into Greek culture, thanks to the unique decor and carefully made meals.
Ambiance and Decor
Step into Pylos East Village and find yourself in Greece, without leaving NYC. The place has a rustic feel, with a ceiling full of terra-cotta pots and bright blue accents. This setting makes guests feel like they’re in the Mediterranean. The decoration is eye-catching and brings out the Greek vibe, making this place a favorite for a genuine Greek meal experience.
Signature Dishes
Pylos celebrates Greek cooking traditions with its menu. Stand-out dishes include the keftedakia (Greek meatballs) and the vegetarian aginares moussaka. This moussaka uses artichokes and creamy béchamel sauce for a twist. Each dish uses only fresh ingredients and follows traditional Greek recipes.
Here’s more about Pylos’ must-try dishes:
| Dish | Description | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Keftedakia | Greek meatballs with savory herbs and spices | $12 |
| Aginares Moussaka | Vegetarian moussaka with artichokes and béchamel sauce | $21 |
| Spanakopita | Crispy phyllo pastry stuffed with spinach and feta | $10 |
| Lamb Giouvetsi | Lamb stew with orzo pasta in a rich tomato sauce | $25 |
Complementary Beverages
Pylos pairs its meals with an array of fine Greek wines. These wines highlight the dishes’ flavors perfectly. Whether you like Assyrtiko or Agiorgitiko, there’s a wine for every taste on their list.
Pylos’ focus on good food and a cozy setting makes it a must-see among NYC’s Greek eateries. Located in the East Village, it’s easy to get to. And, it’s always bustling with happy diners.
Molyvos: A Mediterranean OG in Midtown West
Looking for the best Greek restaurants NYC can offer? Molyvos is a top pick in Midtown West. Started over 30 years ago, it’s known for its amazing delicious Greek cuisine in NYC. The menu mixes classic and new tastes perfectly.
Molyvos is famous for its rich menu, including lamb pie in phyllo and warm semolina custard bougatsa. Every dish reflects the heart of Mediterranean flavors.
The food at Molyvos is top-notch, and so is their drink menu. Guests can pick from a unique all-Greek wine list. With over 50 Greek wines, many natural, it stands out among the best Greek restaurants NYC has.
| Menu Highlights | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lamb Pie in Phyllo | Rich and savory lamb wrapped in thin phyllo pastry | $45 |
| Semolina Custard Bougatsa | Warm custard inside phyllo, sprinkled with powdered sugar | $32 |
| Three-Course Lunch Prix Fixe | A sampling of Molyvos’ finest dishes | $32 per person |
| Dinner Prix Fixe | A full dinner experience | $45 per person |
Midtown Manhattan has many top dining places like Milos and Iris. Yet, Molyvos stands out for its excellent Greek meals. It truly feels like a trip to the Mediterranean. A must-visit for anyone who loves delicious Greek cuisine in NYC.
Eléa: Upper West Side’s Greek Gem
Eléa is a top Greek restaurant in the Upper West Side. It can host 170 people, with a cozy 40-seat room upstairs and a bigger space for 130 guests down below. This setup makes everyone feel welcome and comfy.
Kyma, its sister spot, focuses on Greek seafood. Eléa, on the other hand, offers an even mix of meat and fish dishes. This variety means there’s something for everyone, marking Eléa as a standout in NYC’s Greek food scene.
Culinary Highlights
Eléa’s menu shows off the best of Greek cuisine. Dishes like creamy htipiti with feta and roasted chili, taramasalata with ikura, and grilled tsipoura stand out. These favorites showcase their skill and love for traditional Greek tastes.
Unique Ingredients
Eléa is unique for its ingredients. They use cured ikura in their taramasalata for a new twist. Roasted chili peppers add smokiness to htipiti, and pickled capers give a tangy zip to fish dishes. Eléa is all about innovating while staying true to Greek roots.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Seating Capacity | 170 |
| Upstairs Dining Room | 40 seats |
| Main Dining Room | 130 seats |
| Meat and Fish Menu Split | 50-50 |
| Unique Ingredients | Cured ikura, roasted chili peppers, pickled capers |
Whether you love meat or prefer fish, Eléa has top Greek dishes in New York. The blend of a homey yet stylish atmosphere with a creatively crafted menu makes Eléa a place you must check out.
Kyma: Chelsea’s Hellenic Haven
In the lively streets of New York City, Kyma Chelsea shines as a top spot for true Greek food. It welcomes guests with open arms and tasty dishes, making it a key place for both locals and those visiting.
Popular Appetizers
Kyma Chelsea starts off with a range of tempting appetizers. The feta and hummus pikilia is especially notable. It’s a smooth, flavorful dish that brings the Mediterranean right to your table. Then there’s the cheese-filled calamari. It mixes the light taste of squid with delicious cheese for a memorable first course.
Main Course Selections
When it comes to the main dishes, Kyma Chelsea showcases Greek cuisine’s rich variety. Seafood fans should try the freshly-caught fish, cooked just right for a genuine taste of the Aegean Sea. For those who prefer meat, the comforting short rib youvetsi is a must. It mixes tender short ribs with orzo pasta in a dish that truly represents Greek cooking skills.
Kyma Chelsea, with its great appetizers and rich main dishes, captures the real spirit of Greek food in NYC. It promises guests an eating experience they’ll always remember.
Periyali: Flatiron’s Greek Delight
Periyali Flatiron is your ticket to Greece, located in the Flatiron district. Since 1987, it has been a top choice for Greek food in New York City. In 2006, it got a modern facelift to match its traditional dishes.
Guests enjoy a trip through Greek cuisine with menu stars like tender, grilled octopus. The creamy fava kremidaki offers a fresh taste, blending perfectly with bold flavors.
The menu offers classics like Greek salad, spinach pie, and the famous moussaka. These dishes honor Greek traditions and promise a top-notch dining experience for both regulars and first-timers.
- Oktopodi Sharas: $28
- Calamari: $21
- Spanakopita: $19
- Branzino: $41
- Shrimp Dishes: $41
- Lamb Shank (Arni Youvetsi): $41
- Rabbit Dish (Kouneli Stifado): $51
- Moussaka: $31
- Braised Horta (Wild Greens): $14
You can’t skip desserts here, each at $14, with treats like baklava and ortokalopita. The Greek wines, better by the year, enhance your meal’s enjoyment.
Periyali is a top pick for genuine Greek food in New York. It’s at 35 West 20th Street, open for lunch and dinner. Call 212-463-7890 to book a table and enjoy a Greek feast.
Lola Taverna: A SoHo Standout
Lola Taverna in SoHo is a top spot for dining in NYC’s lively food world. It’s known for its unique take on Greek food, mixing classic tastes with new cooking ideas. This offers guests a memorable meal.
Innovative Dishes
Lola Taverna SoHo is famous for its creative dishes. The menu has spanakopita spring rolls and chicken gyro bao buns. Favorites also include tender lamb chops and grilled octopus, showcasing top-notch ingredients and culinary skill.
Customer Experience
Lola Taverna SoHo isn’t just about great food. It’s also about the vibe and friendly setting. You’ll see lines outside, showing its popularity. The inside atmosphere fits groups and romantic dinners well.
The place is open every day from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. With dedicated service and a great setup, it really stands out.
| Restaurant Name | Location | Highlight Dish | Ambiance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lola Taverna | SoHo, NYC | Lamb Chops | Lively |
| Gospel | Midtown West, NYC | Specialty Cocktails | Trendy |
| La Esquina | Chinatown, NYC | Tacos | Late-night |
| Fish Cheeks | NoHo, NYC | Seafood Platters | Casual |
Mythos: Auburndale’s Family-Run Treasure
Looking for real Greek food in New York? Try Mythos Auburndale. It’s a family-run spot with a welcoming vibe. Right in Auburndale’s heart, Mythos has a snug setting. Here, you can savor Greek meals made with care and precision.
Mythos Auburndale shines because of its menu. It has fresh, grilled fish and classic Greek starters. For example, the melitzansalata, a tasty eggplant dip, shows true Greek flavors. This place stays loyal to its heritage, offering meals that feel like home-cooked dinners.
Mythos sticks to high quality and genuine flavors, making it a key place for Greek food lovers. Whether you’ve always loved Greek dishes or just want to try, Mythos welcomes you. It’s a spot where great food meets tradition.
Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna: Rustic Retreat in Astoria
Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna is known as an old-time Greek retreat by the MICHELIN GUIDE. It stands out among NYC’s popular Greek restaurants. Located in Astoria, it attracts guests with its bold flavors and simple charm.
Unmissable Appetizers
Start your meal at Gregory’s 26 with some amazing appetizers. Try the spicy tirokafteri spread, a hot cheese dip perfect for sharing. Enjoy the crispy zucchini too. It’s fried just right and tastes great with Greek yogurt.
Exquisite Mains
The main dishes at Gregory’s 26 are unforgettable. Their grilled lamb chops are tender and full of traditional Greek flavors. They also serve seafood pasta. It’s made with fresh seafood and herbs, bringing the Mediterranean to Astoria. This spot is a key player in NYC’s Greek restaurant scene. It’s a place food lovers must check out.
Taverna Kyclades: Astoria’s Beloved Spot
Located at 36-01 Ditmars Boulevard, Taverna Kyclades has been in Astoria since 1996. It’s one of the top Greek restaurants in NYC. It brings traditional Greek dishes to life with a modern touch.
The place buzzes with Greek dining spirit, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the enthusiastic service. Plus, there’s a rich menu, from seafood to lamb and kebabs, all made with fresh ingredients.
Seafood is a big draw at Taverna Kyclades. The crispy calamari gets a 10/10 rating, and broiled scallops an 8/10. Even the grilled octopus, despite its oiliness, is a favorite.
Its meat dishes also get rave reviews. The chicken souvlaki scores an 8/10, popular for its size. But the chicken breast has mixed reviews, scoring a 6/10. This reflects varied tastes among diners.
Taverna Kyclades is growing, opening a new location in Bayside. The original spot in Astoria remains loved for Greek food. It’s open all week at specific times, welcoming diners to taste Greek cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for garlic-stuffed clams, creamy mullets, or lamb, head to Taverna Kyclades in Astoria. It’s a must-visit for authentic Greek flavors in NYC.
MP Taverna: Modern Greek Cuisine in Irvington
Near the historic Hudson River, MP Taverna Irvington offers a new take on Greek food. Chef Michael Psilakis, awarded a Michelin star for Anthos in Manhattan, enhances this lively restaurant. Its setting in a former warehouse features high ceilings and large mirrors.
Distinctive Flavors
At MP Taverna, guests dive into unique tastes that bring Greek classics to life. Start with the zesty yogurt dip. For the main course, try savory meatballs or Greek sausages with a twist. Don’t miss the ricotta dumplings with spicy lamb sausage for a modern touch.
Contemporary Twists
MP Taverna merges classic Greek tastes with new cooking styles. It breaks from traditional decor for a sleek urban feel. The dishes blend old and new, just like Psilakis’s other spots, Kefi and Fish Tag. He’s also thinking of opening MP Taverna in Astoria.
Whether you love city eats or want to try Greek food in a new way, MP Taverna Irvington welcomes you. It’s a special spot for exploring modern Greek dishes.
Ovelia: Astoria’s Greek Brunch Haven
Located in the heart of Astoria, Ovelia has rapidly become synonymous with delicious Greek cuisine in NYC. This charming eatery redefines the conventional brunch scene. It blends innovation with time-honored Greek traditions seamlessly.
At Ovelia, patrons are greeted with a menu full of delightful choices, from savory to sweet. The Baklava Pancakes stand out by mixing the rich nutty flavors of the classic dessert with fluffy American pancakes. This creates a morning treat you’ll never forget.
Equally impressive is the Monastiraki Bifteki. They are succulent Greek-style beef patties seasoned perfectly and served with traditional sides. This great mix of textures and flavors shows why Ovelia Astoria is loved by many seeking delicious Greek cuisine in NYC.
The atmosphere at Ovelia is both welcoming and lively. It’s ideal for a relaxed brunch with friends or a casual family outing. Its decor, with rustic and modern touches, makes you feel like you’re in Greece.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Ovelia Astoria offers a unique and tasty experience that goes beyond ordinary brunch. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through Greek cuisine’s rich heritage.
- Baklava Pancakes
- Monastiraki Bifteki
- Traditional Greek Sides
- Welcoming Atmosphere
Next time you’re in Astoria and want a unique brunch experience, put Ovelia at the top of your list. It’s where innovation and tradition come together. They create a perfect blend of flavors and memories.
The Best Greek Restaurants NYC Has to Offer
New York City is famous for its amazing food, including awesome Greek restaurants. You’ll find some of the best Greek spots outside of Europe right here. With help from the MICHELIN Guide, we picked our favorites for you.
Top Recommendations
- Pylos – This trendy spot in the East Village has been around since the 1970s. It’s known for its vegetarian moussaka with artichokes.
- Molyvos – In Midtown West, Molyvos offers the biggest Greek wine list in the U.S.
- Kyma – A Chelsea gem, Kyma serves fresh fish and a tasty pikilia trio of spreads.
- Taverna Kyclades – Famous in Astoria for its chargrilled fish, now also in the East Village.
- Eléa – This Upper West Side favorite features a unique dessert, elmek, with mountain tea-infused custard.
- MP Taverna – In Irvington, enjoy modern Greek food with dishes perfect for sharing.
- Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna – A go-to place in Astoria for its tirokafteri served with pita.
- Lola Taverna – Standout in SoHo offering creative Greek-inspired dishes.
- Snack Taverna – Since 2003, this West Village spot has been loved for its Greek wines.
- Periyali – A historic Manhattan Greek restaurant known for its outstanding cuisine.
Visitor Tips
- Reservations: Make sure to book ahead for places like Kiki’s and Pylos, especially during busy times.
- Best Dishes: Try special dishes like Eléa’s mountain tea-infused custard or Mythos’ chargrilled fish.
- Dining Experience: For a genuine feel, eat family-style at MP Taverna or share mezedes at Yefsi Estiatorio.
- Ambiance: For a distinct vibe, check out Pylos’ clay pot décor and Avra’s flowered courtyard.
- Cuisine Insights: Taverna Kyclades is expanding, a sign of their popular Greek fare.
Conclusion
We’re finishing our look at top Greek restaurants in New York City. It’s clear New York City has a lot for Greek food lovers. From the traditional touch of Pylos in the East Village to MP Taverna’s modern twist in Irvington, our guide covers everything.
Each place we mentioned has its own special vibe. You might like Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna in Astoria or the classy Avra Estiatorio. You’ll find everything from classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki to unique eats like Glikadakia at Ithaka. This guide shows the variety and culture of Greek restaurants in NYC.
For the best Greek dining in New York City, think about the atmosphere, what’s on the menu, and the area it’s in. Whether you’re all about food or just starting to explore, this guide helps you choose well. The best Greek spots in New York City offer more than just great food. They give you a memorable experience that highlights Greek culture and cooking.
FAQ
Where can I find the best Greek restaurants in NYC?
Check out Pylos in the East Village, Molyvos in Midtown West, and Eléa on the Upper West Side for great Greek food.
What are the must-try Greek restaurants in NYC for an authentic experience?
For true Greek tastes, Pylos has a rustic feel and terra-cotta decorations. Try Periyali in Flatiron for simple, traditional Greek flavors.
Which Greek eateries in New York City offer modern takes on traditional dishes?
Molyvos gives traditional dishes like lamb pie a new twist. Lola Taverna in SoHo makes unique dishes such as spanakopita spring rolls and chicken gyro bao buns.
Are there any popular Greek restaurants in NYC for seafood lovers?
Taverna Kyclades in Astoria is loved for its garlic-clams and creamy mullets. Mythos is another spot for fresh, grilled fish.
Where can I find delicious Greek cuisine in NYC that features innovative ingredients?
Eléa on the Upper West Side mixes traditional Greek flavors with new ingredients like roasted chili peppers, cured ikura, and pickled capers.
What Greek restaurants in NYC offer a memorable dining experience with standout decor?
Pylos is unique with a ceiling full of terra-cotta pots and blue details. Periyali offers both stylish décor and a traditional Greek menu.
Can you recommend any Greek dining spots in NYC with an extensive wine list?
Pylos and Molyvos have large wine lists with Greek wines, perfect for a full Mediterranean experience.
Where should I go in NYC for a unique Greek brunch experience?
Ovelia in Astoria has creative Greek brunch items like baklava pancakes and monastiraki bifteki.
What are the top Greek eateries in NYC that offer a robust and familial dining atmosphere?
Mythos in Auburndale gives a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with home-style Greek appetizers for a cozy meal.
Are there any upscale Greek restaurants in Manhattan with a contemporary menu?
For fancy Greek dining, Kyma in Chelsea is ideal. It has dishes like cheese-stuffed calamari and fresh fish in a modern setting.
