Manhattan's Best Greek Restaurants [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured the streets of Manhattan, indulging in mouthwatering moussaka, perfectly grilled souvlaki, and the fluffiest baklava you can imagine. After visiting a dozen top spots, I’ve compiled a list that captures the essence of Greek cuisine right in the heart of the city.

You can trust my taste buds; they’ve been on countless culinary adventures, and I have a knack for finding the authentic flavors that transport you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just curious to try out some feta and olives, I promise there’s something here to tickle your palate and satisfy your cravings. Get ready to dive into a delicious journey!

Yasouvlaki

Highlights
Exceptional service
Delicious meat platter
Juicy, well-charred skewers
Friendly, accommodating owners
Reasonable prices

Yasouvlaki is a charming little haven tucked away in the bustling streets of Manhattan, and let me tell you, it completely exceeded my expectations! Right from the moment I stepped in, the exceptional service pulled me in—each team member was not only friendly but also incredibly accommodating, ready to recommend their favorites.

Now, let’s talk about the food! The delicious meat platter was a symphony of flavors, showcasing tender, juicy, and well-charred skewers that practically danced on my palate. Each bite was a delightful tribute to traditional Greek cuisine, and I couldn’t help but relish the robust seasoning that made each skewer sing.

The prices at Yasouvlaki are refreshingly reasonable—perfect for both a casual lunch or a cozy dinner without breaking the bank. It’s not every day that you find a place that combines high-quality cuisine with affordability!

So, if you’re in the area and craving Greek flavors, I wholeheartedly recommend paying a visit to Yasouvlaki. It’s an experience that will leave you smiling, satisfied, and perhaps planning your next trip back!

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Taverna East Village

Highlights
Delicious Mediterranean food
Attentive and friendly staff
Quick and efficient service
Clean and inviting atmosphere
Recommended broiled shrimp

Review of Taverna East Village

As I strolled through the charming streets of the East Village, my anticipation grew for an evening at Taverna East Village. As I stepped inside, I was instantly greeted by a clean and inviting atmosphere that set the perfect stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The attentive and friendly staff made me feel at home, guiding me with recommendations that didn’t disappoint.

I delighted in their broiled shrimp, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned, leaving a lasting impression on my palate. Each bite sang with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to authentic Greek cuisine. What truly impressed me, though, was the quick and efficient service that kept the dining experience flowing smoothly, ensuring that my glass never ran dry and my cravings were promptly satisfied.

Dining at Taverna East Village was not just a meal; it was a delightful celebration of flavors and hospitality. If you're in Manhattan and seeking a spot where culinary excellence meets a welcoming atmosphere, this gem should be on your list. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Loi Estiatorio

I had the pleasure of dining at Loi Estiatorio, a hidden gem in the heart of Manhattan. The ambiance felt like a cozy Greek taverna, with warm lighting and delightful music that whisked me away to the Aegean. The standout dish was undoubtedly the lamb chops, perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a harmonious blend of spices that transported my taste buds directly to Greece. Don't miss their housemade tzatziki—it’s a refreshing companion to any meal! If you’re seeking an authentic Greek experience, Loi Estiatorio is a must-visit for a tasteful journey through the flavors of Greece.

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Kellari Taverna

Kellari Taverna is a delightful gem that transports you straight to the heart of Greece without leaving Manhattan! The authenticity of the Mediterranean flavors is palpable in every dish, especially the grilled octopus, which is tender and beautifully charred. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering. I also reveled in their extensive wine selection, featuring some fantastic Greek labels. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive, striking the right balance. For anyone seeking a genuine taste of Greece, Kellari Taverna stands as a must-visit culinary escape!

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Nerai

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, Nerai is a delightful culinary escape that transports you straight to the shores of Greece. The ambiance is elegantly inviting, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. I savored the Grilled Octopus, which was tender and beautifully charred. The Greek Lamb Chops were succulent, bursting with flavor and perfectly paired with a refreshing tzatziki. To top it off, their Baklava Sundae was a divine fusion of textures and tastes. If you're seeking a taste of Greece in Manhattan, Nerai is an experience that delights the senses and should not be missed!

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estiatorio Milos Midtown

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, estiatorio Milos offers a delightful journey to the Aegean with its fresh seafood and classic Greek fare. Upon entering, I was greeted by a warm ambiance that feels both elegant and inviting. I indulged in the signature grilled octopus, which was perfectly tender, and their vibrant Greek salad, bursting with flavor. The imported olive oil left a memorable finish on each dish. Service was impeccable—attentive yet unobtrusive. A true gem for Greek cuisine lovers, estiatorio Milos delivers an experience that is both sophisticated and wonderfully authentic. Don’t miss their baklava for dessert!

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Tziki

During my delightful visit to Tziki, I was greeted by a warm ambiance that instantly transported me to Greece. The tzatziki was refreshingly cool, perfectly matched with warm pita bread that whisked me away to sun-kissed shores. I indulged in their lamb gyro, where tender meat met zesty tzatziki in a flavor explosion. Each bite was nothing short of divine! Don't skip the baklava—its sweet, flaky layers felt like a gentle hug from the Mediterranean. With friendly service and a charming atmosphere, Tziki is truly a hidden gem in the bustling streets of Manhattan. An absolute must-visit!

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Avra Madison

My visit to Avra Madison was nothing short of enchanting. The moment I stepped inside, the inviting decor and the aroma of fresh Mediterranean herbs transported me straight to Greece. I indulged in their seafood towers, a stunning display of oceanic treasures that tasted as good as they looked. The grilled octopus was perfectly charred, tender, and bursting with flavor. To top it off, the service was impeccable, blending warmth with professionalism. This gem in the heart of Manhattan beautifully captures the spirit of Greek cuisine, making it a top contender in my search for the best Greek restaurants.

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Pylos

Pylos is a true gem tucked away in the East Village, where the ambiance transports you straight to the Aegean coast. The moment I walked in, I was charmed by the rustic decor and cozy vibe, making it perfect for a romantic dinner. Their moussaka is a must-try, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite of the tender meat and rich béchamel was heavenly! I also loved the tzatziki, refreshing and creamy, a delightful start to the meal. With attentive service and a robust wine selection, Pylos delivers a genuine taste of Greece in the heart of Manhattan.

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Molyvos

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, Molyvos is a true gem that celebrates the essence of Greek cuisine. As I stepped inside, the warm ambiance instantly transported me to the Aegean Isles. My taste buds danced with excitement as I savored the delectable grilled octopus, perfectly charred and seasoned, paired with an exquisite lemon-dill sauce. The moussaka was a comforting delight, layered with rich flavors that sang with every bite. The service was as welcoming as a Greek family dinner, making my visit unforgettable. If you’re seeking authentic Greek dishes in the city, Molyvos is a must-visit destination!

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Lola Taverna

At Lola Taverna, I felt transported straight to the heart of Greece. The vibrant decor and inviting ambiance set the stage for what turned out to be an unforgettable culinary journey. The Mediterranean-inspired menu dazzled my palate; each dish was a symphony of flavors. I savored the lamb chops tenderly grilled to perfection, and the traditional moussaka was simply divine. The friendly staff made culinary recommendations that hit the mark. For dessert, the baklava was a sweet, flaky triumph. If you're seeking a slice of Greece amid Manhattan's hustle, Lola Taverna is an absolute must-visit!

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Avra Rockefeller Center

At Avra Rockefeller Center, dining feels like a Mediterranean getaway amidst the bustling city. The crisp tabbouleh and succulent grilled octopus were standout dishes that whisked my taste buds straight to Greece. The ambiance strikes a harmonious balance between elegance and warmth, perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering. Service was attentive without being intrusive, allowing me to savor each delightful moment. Don’t skip dessert; their baklava is a sweet symphony! Overall, Avra beautifully captures the essence of Greek cuisine, making it a must-visit spot in Manhattan for anyone craving an authentic experience.

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