Top 10 Best Greek Restaurants in New York

This elegant Midtown establishment brings a refined, contemporary sensibility to Greek cuisine with a menu that balances tradition and innovation. The lobster pasta with Greek cheese and tomato is a luxurious standout that beautifully bridges Italian and Greek culinary traditions. The sophisticated dining room with its modern art and warm lighting attracts a mature crowd looking for a quieter, more refined alternative to the bustling Greek steakhouses nearby. Their pre-theater menu is a savvy choice if you're catching a show at Carnegie Hall or City Center.

Avra's Midtown location epitomizes upscale Greek dining with a scene that's as much about seeing and being seen as the food itself. The grilled octopus appetizer is Instagram gold—perfectly charred tentacles artfully arranged—but it's the Dover sole that true aficionados order. The soaring ceilings and marble-clad interior create a grand, almost theatrical atmosphere that works equally well for business entertaining or impressing out-of-town guests. Expect a powerful crowd at lunch and a glamorous dinner scene that extends well into the night.

This Upper West Side neighborhood spot is a hidden gem that locals fiercely protect—intimate, unpretentious, and consistently excellent. The moussaka here is properly made, with layers of eggplant so delicate they melt on your tongue beneath that creamy béchamel crown. The cozy, taverna-style setting with exposed brick and rustic touches makes it perfect for casual dinners where you can linger over appetizers and Greek beer. The service feels like dining at a friend's place, with staff who remember regulars' names and preferences.

When you're ready to splurge on the crème de la crème of Greek seafood, Milos delivers an experience that justifies every dollar. This is where you'll find the freshest Mediterranean fish in the city, displayed on ice and priced by the pound—select your own and have it simply grilled with ladolemono. The elegant, minimalist interior with its iconic white-on-white design scheme attracts celebrities, diplomats, and anyone celebrating something special. Service is formal but warm, and the Greek salad here sets the gold standard that all others aspire to match.

The Upper East Side's answer to sophisticated Mediterranean dining, ZOI brings a fresh, health-conscious approach without sacrificing flavor. Their grilled lamb chops are thick-cut, herb-crusted, and cooked to a perfect medium-rare that makes them worth the splurge. The bright, modern space with an inviting bar area attracts a well-heeled neighborhood crowd, from young families at brunch to couples on weekend date nights. The outdoor seating in warmer months is prime real estate for people-watching on Second Avenue.

This Chelsea charmer proves that exceptional Greek food doesn't require white tablecloths or a hefty price tag. The lamb souvlaki platter is what keeps regulars coming back—perfectly marinated, chargrilled, and served with the fluffiest pita you've ever encountered. The casual, fast-casual setup makes it ideal for a quick lunch or easy dinner with friends, while the quality rivals spots charging double. Their homemade tzatziki is so good, locals buy it by the container to take home.

This Midtown mainstay has been wooing the business lunch crowd and celebrating diners for years with its refined approach to Greek classics and impeccable service. The whole grilled fish presentation is spectacular—they'll bring it to your table for approval before expertly filleting it tableside. The light-filled dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking 54th Street creates an elegant backdrop for deal-making or special occasions. Spring for the Greek wine pairing to elevate your meal; their sommelier knows how to match indigenous varietals to each course perfectly.

This newcomer in Tribeca is already making waves with its modern take on Greek taverna culture and an impressive natural wine program. Chef-owner brings regional specialties from lesser-known Greek islands, and the saganaki here—flambéed tableside—is pure theater and pure delicious. The intimate space with its minimalist whitewashed walls and marble bar feels distinctly Cycladic, making it ideal for small groups looking to discover beyond the typical moussaka. The seafood changes daily based on what's freshest, so ask your server for recommendations.

Tucked away in the East Village, this cozy taverna feels like stumbling into someone's Greek grandmother's dining room—if that grandmother happened to be an exceptional chef. The clay pot baked dishes are what you come for, especially the lamb kleftiko that falls off the bone with the gentlest prod of your fork. The rustic, candlelit atmosphere with hanging copper pots creates an intimate vibe perfect for romantic dinners or catching up with old friends over endless bottles of Greek wine. Arrive early or expect a wait—this neighborhood gem doesn't take reservations for parties under six.

This sleek Mediterranean hotspot near Madison Square Park serves up modern Greek-Turkish fusion in a sophisticated setting that's perfect for power lunches and date nights alike. The grilled octopus here is legendary—tender, charred to perfection, and finished with a drizzle of olive oil that'll make you want to order a second round. With its airy dining room, extensive meze selection, and a bar scene that buzzes well into the evening, Barbounia strikes the perfect balance between upscale and approachable. Don't skip the Turkish coffee to finish your meal.