Greek food isn’t just about gyros and tzatziki—it’s a cultural experience packed with fresh ingredients, bold spices, and centuries of tradition. Whether you’re craving sizzling souvlaki, creamy moussaka, or flaky spanakopita, the USA has no shortage of incredible Greek restaurants that serve up true Mediterranean hospitality. After scouring reviews, chatting with locals, and sampling dishes coast to coast, here are my top 25 picks for the best Greek restaurants in the USA in 2025. These spots not only serve authentic Greek cuisine—they transport you to the Aegean with every bite.
1. Kiki’s Tavern – Astoria, New York
- Location: 37-14 31st Ave, Astoria, NY
- Must-Try Dish: Whole Grilled Branzino with Lemon-Olive Oil
Astoria is New York’s Greek heartland, and Kiki’s Tavern is its soul. Tucked on a quiet corner, this rustic yet lively spot feels like a taverna in Mykonos. Their fish is flown in fresh daily, grilled over open flames, and served simply with lemon and herbs—just how it’s done in Greece. Add in a glass of ouzo, and you’re practically seaside.
2. The Great Greek – Las Vegas, Nevada
- Location: 5025 S Fort Apache Rd, Las Vegas, NV (Multiple locations nationwide)
- Must-Try Dish: Traditional Moussaka
- Website: The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
What started as a family dream in Vegas has grown into one of the most loved Greek restaurant chains in the country. The Great Greek stays true to recipes passed down for generations. Their moussaka—layered eggplant, potato, and savory ground beef topped with béchamel—is a showstopper. Don’t miss the loukoumades (Greek donuts) for dessert.
3. Zaytinya – Washington, D.C.
- Location: 701 9th St NW, Washington, D.C.
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Kleftiko
- Website: Zaytinya by José Andrés
Renowned chef José Andrés brings a modern spin to Mediterranean cuisine at Zaytinya, with strong Greek influences at its core. The ambiance is upscale but inviting, and dishes are served mezze-style for sharing. Their lamb kleftiko is braised to perfection, rich with herbs and history. This is where elevated dining meets deep-rooted tradition.
4. Taverna Plaka – Atlanta, Georgia
- Location: 2196 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA
- Must-Try Dish: Flaming Saganaki Cheese
Dining at Taverna Plaka isn’t just a meal—it’s a Greek party. With belly dancers, live bouzouki music, and plates smashing with joy, the atmosphere here is electric. But beyond the fun is seriously good food. The saganaki (fried kefalograviera cheese lit on fire at your table) is both a spectacle and a flavor bomb. Perfect for a night out with friends.
5. Opa! – Los Altos, California
- Location: 325 Main St, Los Altos, CA (Bay Area locations)
- Must-Try Dish: Chicken Souvlaki Plate
- Website: Opa! Authentic Greek
A Bay Area gem, Opa! balances casual comfort with high-quality ingredients. Their chicken souvlaki is chargrilled to perfection and served with warm pita, lemony potatoes, and creamy tzatziki. The interior blends rustic wood, exposed brick, and Mediterranean tile for a modern, cozy feel. It’s the kind of place locals return to again and again.
6. Kouzina Christos – Chicago, Illinois
- Location: 1657 W Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL
- Must-Try Dish: Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
Website: Kouzina Christos Chicago
Chicago’s Greek community is legendary, and Kouzina Christos is a neighborhood favorite that lives up to its roots. Their spanakopita is buttery, flaky, and stuffed with spinach, feta, and herbs that taste like a garden in Greece. It’s a small, no-frills spot, but the flavors are big, and the hospitality is even bigger.
7. Estiatorio Milos – Miami, Florida
- Location: 730 1st St, Miami Beach, FL (with locations in NYC, Vegas, and LA)
- Must-Try Dish: Lavraki (Mediterranean Sea Bass)
- Website: Estiatorio Milos Miami
If you’re craving upscale coastal Greek cuisine, Estiatorio Milos sets the standard. Think pristine seafood displayed on ice, flown in fresh from the Aegean. The lavraki (Greek sea bass) is grilled whole and filleted tableside with olive oil and lemon. The vibe is chic yet rooted in old-world simplicity.
8. Nostos – Vienna, Virginia (D.C. Suburbs)
- Location: 8100 Boone Blvd, Vienna, VA
- Must-Try Dish: Octapodi (Grilled Octopus)
- Website: Nostos Restaurant
Just outside D.C., Nostos is a modern Greek fine dining gem that consistently ranks among the best in the region. Their grilled octopus—tender, smoky, and drizzled with olive oil—is a masterclass in technique. The wine list is also packed with rare Greek vintages you won’t find anywhere else.
9. Papa Cristo’s – Los Angeles, California
- Location: 2771 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Gyro Plate
- Website: Papa Cristo’s LA
Papa Cristo’s has been serving the LA community since 1948. It’s part restaurant, part Greek grocery store, and entirely legendary. Their lamb gyro is seasoned with secret spices and cooked until juicy and crisp. You can eat in the dining area or grab ingredients from the deli and make your own Greek feast at home.
10. Olympia Café – Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Location: 2210 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM
- Must-Try Dish: Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)
- Website: Olympia Café Albuquerque
Yes, even New Mexico has a slice of the Aegean—and Olympia Café is where it’s at. Run by the same family for decades, this cozy spot is known for its hearty pastitsio, a comforting blend of pasta, spiced ground beef, béchamel, and cheese. It’s local, unpretentious, and consistently delicious.
11. Thanasis Greek Restaurant – Salt Lake City, Utah
- Location: 6196 S State St, Murray, UT
- Must-Try Dish: Chicken Souvlaki Pita
Don’t underestimate Salt Lake’s Greek food scene—Thanasis brings the warmth of a Greek village to Utah. Family-owned and operated, this spot is beloved for its flavorful chicken souvlaki, soft pita, and generous tzatziki portions. The cozy, welcoming vibe makes it feel like eating in someone’s home kitchen.
12. Yanni’s Greek Restaurant – Seattle, Washington
- Location: 7419 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Shank Yiouvetsi
- Website: Yanni’s Greek Restaurant
A longtime Seattle favorite, Yanni’s is all about classic Greek comfort food. Their Yiouvetsi—lamb shank slow-braised in tomato sauce with orzo—is rich, tender, and deeply satisfying. From the olive tapenade starter to their handmade desserts, every bite is packed with authentic flavor and soul.
13. Little Greek Fresh Grill – Tampa, Florida (Nationwide Locations)
- Location: 2560 N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL
- Must-Try Dish: Greek Salad with Chicken
- Website: Little Greek Fresh Grill
If you want fast-casual done right, Little Greek Fresh Grill delivers big flavors with fresh ingredients. What makes this chain stand out is its consistency—fluffy pita, tangy feta, and crisp veggies every single time. Their Greek salad with grilled chicken is a perfect healthy lunch, and their baklava is no slouch either.
14. Greek Islands Restaurant – Chicago, Illinois
- Location: 200 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL
- Must-Try Dish: Saganaki (Flaming Cheese)
- Website: Greek Islands Restaurant Chicago
Located in Chicago’s historic Greektown, Greek Islands has been a pillar of the community since 1971. Known for its lively atmosphere and generous portions, the flaming saganaki is a must—it arrives at your table with a dramatic “Opa!” Their house-made dolmades and avgolemono soup are also top-tier.
15. Niko Niko’s – Houston, Texas
- Location: 2520 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX
- Must-Try Dish: Greek Breakfast Pita
- Website: Niko Niko’s
Niko Niko’s blends tradition with a Texan twist. What started as a tiny walk-up window in 1977 is now a beloved Greek dining institution. Their Greek breakfast pita, filled with eggs, spinach, and feta, is a crowd favorite. They also have an impressive coffee bar and serve rich Greek frappés that fuel Houston mornings.
16. Mediterranean Grill – Nashville, Tennessee
- Location: 4002 West End Ave, Nashville, TN
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Gyro Plate with Rice Pilaf
Tucked away in Nashville’s West End, Mediterranean Grill serves up big flavors in a relaxed setting. The lamb gyro plate is juicy, well-spiced, and served with fragrant rice pilaf and grilled veggies. Their hummus and baba ghanoush are also house-made and perfect for sharing.
17. Eléa – New York City, New York
- Location: 217 W 85th St, New York, NY
- Must-Try Dish: Grilled Lavraki (Mediterranean Sea Bass
- Website: Eléa NYC
Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Eléa offers an elegant, coastal-inspired Greek experience. The decor feels like Santorini meets Soho, and the grilled lavraki is a standout—light, flaky, and served whole with lemon, capers, and olive oil. Ideal for date night or a refined lunch.
18. Santorini Greek Kitchen – Indianapolis, Indiana
- Location: 1417 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN
- Must-Try Dish: Beef Souvlaki Skewers
Santorini Greek Kitchen is a hidden treasure in the Midwest. The owners are passionate about Greek culture and it shows in every dish. Their beef souvlaki is grilled over open flame and served with roasted lemon potatoes and a vibrant Greek salad. It’s cozy, casual, and full of flavor.
19. Taziki’s Mediterranean Café – Birmingham, Alabama (and national)
- Location: 2737 U.S. Hwy 280, Birmingham, AL
- Must-Try Dish: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Website: Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
Though it’s a fast-casual chain, Taziki’s began in Birmingham and still feels deeply personal. Their avgolemono (Greek lemon chicken soup) is a comforting classic, made fresh daily. You’ll also find health-forward takes on gyros, power bowls, and grilled lamb options. Great for families and quick weekday lunches.
20. Zorba’s Taverna – Worcester, Massachusetts
- Location: 97 Stafford St, Worcester, MA
- Must-Try Dish: Moussaka with House-Made Bechamel
If you’re in New England, Zorba’s Taverna is a must. It’s been family-owned for over 30 years and still draws regulars with its moussaka—rich layers of eggplant, spiced ground beef, and fluffy béchamel sauce. The staff treats you like family, and portions are generous.
21. Yasou Greek Grill Café – Cleveland, Ohio
- Location: 530 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH
- Must-Try Dish: Pork Souvlaki Wrap
This downtown favorite packs big flavor into a small, fast-casual setting. Yasou’s pork souvlaki is flame-grilled and loaded with fresh veggies, feta, and house-made tzatziki. The team prides itself on quick service without sacrificing authenticity—perfect for lunch crowds and downtown foodies.
22. The Parthenon – Nashville, Tennessee
- Location: 219 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN
- Must-Try Dish: Gyro Plate with Lemon Potatoes.
Right in the heart of Nashville’s historic district, The Parthenon (not to be confused with the museum) serves up old-school Greek comfort in a laid-back setting. The gyro meat is tender and spiced just right, served with lemon potatoes that fans rave about.
23. My Big Fat Greek Restaurant – Chandler, Arizona
- Location: 2000 N Alma School Rd, Chandler, AZ
- Must-Try Dish: Fried Calamari & Tzatziki.
- MBFGR – Chandler
Big portions, bold flavors, and a festive atmosphere make this Arizona favorite live up to its name. The fried calamari is crisp and tender, and their house tzatziki is a creamy, garlicky standout. A great choice for families or groups.
24. Athens Market Taverna – San Diego, California
- Location: 109 W F St, San Diego, CA
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Chops with Ladolemono
Serving downtown San Diego for over 30 years, Athens Market is a polished yet approachable taverna with real heart. The lamb chops—grilled and dressed in lemon-oregano olive oil—are the house favorite. Add a Greek wine pairing and take in the breezy, coastal vibes.
25. Daphne’s – Multiple Locations (California-Based Chain)
- Flagship Location: San Diego, CA
- Must-Try Dish: Fire-Grilled Chicken Pita.
A fast-casual pioneer in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, Daphne’s offers healthy, flavorful meals across California. Their fire-grilled chicken pita is fresh, tender, and packed with flavor, paired with lemon rice or roasted veggies. It’s a dependable go-to for quick and healthy Greek.
Final Thoughts
Greek cuisine is having a moment—and for good reason. These 25 restaurants represent the very best of what Greek food in America can be: warm, bold, honest, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting to explore Mediterranean flavors, you can’t go wrong with any of these.
So next time you’re planning a foodie trip, skip the chain restaurants and treat yourself to something authentic. Your taste buds (and your soul) will thank you.
FAQs About Greek Restaurants in the USA
Q: Are Greek restaurants in the USA authentic?
Yes—especially in areas with strong Greek communities like Astoria (NY), Chicago, and parts of California. Many chefs stick to traditional recipes and import ingredients like feta and olive oil directly from Greece.
Q: Is Greek food healthy?
Absolutely. Greek cuisine often features fresh vegetables, lean meats, olive oil, and herbs. Dishes like grilled fish, Greek salads, and lentil soup are both nourishing and delicious.
Q: What’s a must-try Greek dessert?
Baklava is the most famous, but don’t overlook galaktoboureko (custard pie) or loukoumades (honey-soaked dough puffs).
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
