While we probably won’t be celebrating with a massive parade down Atlantic Avenue or an ouzo-fueled taverna crawl this year, there are still plenty of ways to savor Greek culture – like with some incredible food and drinks from restaurants across Brooklyn. Whether you’re craving grilled octopus or rare Greek wines, these 10 spots have you covered.
Yia Yia’s Taverna
$$ | (718) 821-5900 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving authentic Greek flavors without breaking the bank, make your way to this taverna in Brooklyn. They serve the Poseidon platter, Greek salad, chicken kebabs, and a standout Branzino fillet that’s absolutely worth every penny. For drinks, the peach sangria and famous frappe are perfect refreshers on a warm day. The backyard garden is an ideal spot to unwind with a drink during happy hour, and street parking at meters makes it convenient.
Friendly staff keep an eye on your table, even offering complimentary wine refills.
Meze
$$ | (718) 234-6393 | WEBSITE
Meze is currently taking reservations for their popular Lamb Gyro Platter and Chicken Gyro Sandwich, available for dine-in or takeout on weekends. You can also walk in without one – while you’re there, be sure to try their excellent grilled octopus.
Underhill Cafe Brooklyn
$$ | (718) 484-3744 | WEBSITE
For a feast of chicken caprese sandwich, spinach pie, and a platter of pork souvlaki, order from Underhill Cafe Brooklyn. You can also grab a Mythos beer, like the crisp lager that pairs perfectly with their delicious tzatziki and gyro options. They’re currently open for cozy indoor dining near Pacific Street, with a small bar area and complimentary baklava at the end of meals.
Athena
$$ | (718) 965-4578 | WEBSITE
For a cozy family celebration, Athena in Brooklyn is serving up phenomenal Greek food all evening, along with authentic appetizers and drinks that capture the spirit of Greece. You can enjoy it all for dine-in or takeout—or if you’re looking for that same attentive service, owner Teddy’s energy and laughs make every visit special. The portions are large without being excessively expensive, and even those new to Greek cuisine will find the Gyro to be the best they’ve ever had.
The restaurant is immaculately clean, with a large Greek vase in the window adding to its authentic ambiance, making it highly recommended for a perfect dining experience.
Chicken Feastin
$ | (718) 676-9992 | WEBSITE
Chicken Feastin has a few standout Greek dishes on the menu—like the charcoal grilled chicken, which is juicy and perfectly marinated, the tender and juicy ribs, and the Greek salad with grilled chicken served with flavorful lemon potatoes. It’s all available for dine-in or takeout and delivery—order ahead here to avoid the 15-20 minute wait during busy hours.
King Souvlaki
$$ | (718) 333-5016 | WEBSITE
King Souvlaki is celebrated for serving some of the most authentic Greek food in Brooklyn, so there’s no better spot to satisfy those cravings. The beloved Bay Ridge eatery also features their famous lamb gyro on pita with white sauce, all of which you can order for takeout – or you can sit down inside at their casual dining area.
Gyro King Express
$ | (718) 484-0606 | WEBSITE
The Greek spot in Brooklyn has chicken cheese burgers, lamb and chicken with rice, and fresh salads, all of which you can enjoy with a variety of toppings or as part of a great kids’ deal. Gyro King Express is currently open for nighttime workers and those seeking halal food, with a friendly staff including a notably tall guy known for his honorable service, all at a reasonable $10 price point.
Olives & Pita
$ | (347) 909-7121 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving authentic Greek flavors in Bay Ridge, Olives & Pita has you covered. Their roasted pig dinner is $28, and comes with fresh spinach pie, stuffed grape leaves, and the best tzatziki sauce you’ll find in Brooklyn. Order here for dining in, delivery, or booking their backyard patio for private parties.
Avlee Greek Kitchen
$$ | (718) 855-5125 | WEBSITE
Avlee Greek Kitchen consistently delivers on authentic Greek flavors – and their vegetarian-friendly menu is no exception. You can enjoy standout dishes like the tender octopus, hearty moussaka, comforting lentil soup, and flaky spanakopita throughout the year. The cozy atmosphere gets lively during peak hours, so consider takeout when tables fill up. Stop by their Brooklyn location near public transit or find street parking for a quick visit.
Greek Xpress and Pizza
$ | (347) 844-9377 | WEBSITE
Greek Xpress is serving up authentic Greek flavors throughout Brooklyn, so if you’re craving a perfectly seasoned gyro, fresh spinach roll appetizer, or charbroiled chicken skewers with tzatziki, place your order here. Note that the dining area is on the smaller side, but the friendly staff and generous portions more than make up for it.
You can also sit down and enjoy the grilled meats and warm pitas in their cozy space, where the aromas from the charbroiled grill will transport you straight to a taverna in Athens.