Greek cuisine in the United States has grown far beyond neighborhood tavernas. Across the country, a handful of restaurants stand out for their dedication to tradition, ingredient quality, and a dining experience that feels both generous and grounded. From bustling city neighborhoods to polished dining rooms, these five Greek restaurants continue to attract devoted regulars and first-time visitors alike.
Taverna Kyclades
Located in Astoria, Taverna Kyclades has become a reference point for Greek seafood in the U.S. The menu focuses on simplicity: grilled fish, lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Whole branzino, lavraki, and octopus arrive perfectly cooked, allowing the ingredients to speak for themselves. Despite its popularity and long waits, the atmosphere remains unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where plates are meant to be shared and meals stretch into long conversations.
Kokkari Estiatorio
Kokkari Estiatorio brings a more refined interpretation of Greek cooking to San Francisco. Inspired by the tavernas of Greece, the restaurant pairs rustic flavors with a warm, carefully designed interior. Grilled meats, slow-roasted lamb, and seasonal vegetables are central to the menu. Kokkari balances comfort and elegance, making it equally suitable for celebratory dinners and quiet evenings centered around good food and wine.
Greek Islands
Greek Islands is a Chicago institution that has been serving classic Greek dishes for decades. Known for its lively energy, generous portions, and traditional recipes, it delivers a straightforward and satisfying experience. Flaming saganaki, hearty moussaka, and charcoal-grilled meats define the menu. Greek Islands thrives on consistency, offering familiar flavors that keep families and longtime patrons returning year after year.
Taverna Agora
In Raleigh, Taverna Agora offers a modern take on the Greek taverna. Designed to resemble an open marketplace, the space encourages sharing and exploration. Small plates, fresh spreads, and regional dishes invite diners to sample widely. The rooftop setting adds to its appeal, making it a social destination as much as a restaurant. Taverna Agora succeeds in making Greek dining feel accessible, lively, and contemporary.
Andros Taverna
Andros Taverna represents a newer generation of Greek restaurants, blending tradition with thoughtful updates. Seasonal ingredients, careful sourcing, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere shape the experience. The menu includes familiar dishes alongside lesser-known regional specialties, presented with restraint rather than excess. Andros feels personal and intentional, reflecting a quieter but confident approach to Greek cooking.
Why These Restaurants Matter
Together, these five restaurants show the range of Greek cuisine in the United States. Whether rooted in long-standing tradition or shaped by contemporary sensibilities, each offers a clear point of view. What they share is a respect for ingredients, a sense of hospitality, and an understanding that Greek food is about more than recipes—it’s about time, conversation, and connection around the table.
