The best authentic Greek food in the city! Kava is well known for having incredible food, and it hits every time. It can be hard to get a reservation as you can only book up to 24 hours in advance, but we managed to walk in on a Saturday for lunch as a party of two! Located in a beautiful part of South End with some, but not a ton of street parking, the restaurant has a small space decorated with a "sea" theme with ropes and a big painting of a sailor. The food is the main draw, and the highlight is really authentically Greek dishes. We tried the Pantzaria (baked beets), kolokithakia (zucchini chips), kalamarakia tis skaras (grilled calamari), keftedes (Greek meatballs), and horiatiki (tomato/cucumber/feta salad). The highlights were definitively the zucchini chips which were so crunchy with a yummy dipping sauce or the calamari which were seasoned in this yummy caper oil sauce, or the keftedes which were perfectly cooked. The beets were pretty basic unseasoned beets, but I love beets and really enjoyed this as a low-acid side to the other food. Lastly, we tried the Greek coffee which came in little espresso cups and was soooo good, would highly recommend. We also have a severe anaphylactic nut/peanut allergy and they were easily able to accommodate and so knowledgeable! Overall we had an amazing time and will certainly be back. read more

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Got to head over to Kava for a second round today and try some things I did not get around to last time, so here are my thoughts: The food REMAINS IMPECCABLE. I was obsessed with the octopus last time and it was once again grilled to perfection with excellent acidity. The zucchini chips were delightful (even as someone who hates zucchini's). The feta psiti was a comfort per usual. What blew me away and I was so excited to try was the lamb chops. They were cooked to perfection, the look was closer to a medium-well (we asked for medium) but the meat was still perfectly juicy and spiced. The mousaka was also lovely, I have only had this dish homemade and it certainly held its own... definitely had a homemade feel with a generous meat portion. The Roka salad was also lovely. As far as drinks go, I enjoyed my aperol spritz and my spicy margarita a lot, I especially like the tsipouro having tried it as a shot the first time, but I think if I were to go again, I might go for wine for a more consistent liquor content. Now let's talk about service. I want to preface that certain things would 1000% be overlooked had we reserved for a busier time, but we went in 15 minutes after opening and by the looks of it, there were more than enough servers for the tables filled in the patio. The first time that I tried Kava, part of the excellent experience was our server. They were such a sweet person who really took the time to bond with us, brought us a round on the house, and just checked on us and made sure we were always doing good. Today really lacked that element. As soon as we sat down, the server informed us that they were out of three small plates, which happens, but not 15 minutes after opening as this was the case. Nonetheless, we were able to order a lot of yummy things, so fine. We then asked if it would be possible to angle the umbrella some way or move to a different table so I would be covered from the scorching sun this afternoon, and our server said "just wait ten minutes, the sun will move behind the building..." I understand that I asked for a patio and obviously you cannot control the sun nor the weather, but I just feel like the situation could be handled a little better -- at least a better response. Then, my dad ordered a beer which was completely warm. We asked for another which was luke warm, so then he just asked for a cocktail instead. The server was kind enough to bring a cold beer on the house later, but again, right at open, you kind of expect things to be in order. Overall, our server was just kind of... there, not super attentive nor pleasant. Another thing, I tried to get around the Resy "day before" policy because the reservations for Sunday opened during my graduation ceremony on Saturday and I wanted to make sure I get my table especially as my parents were catching a flight, so I emailed management in advance per the host's instructions upon calling. We went back and forth rather unnecessarily (with very delayed replies on their part), then I got completely ghosted... Not sure why. I was eventually able to get a table by calling the host after my ceremony on Saturday and they were incredibly accommodating, but they also noted that this was a graduation celebration, yet there was no acknowledgment... I had a graduation dinner last year at a different establishment in Boston and our server went beyond to ensure a great experience and even brought out a hand-written card with our check. These details could really really help the Kava experience in my opinion. Finally, the servers bringing out the dishes were completely confused. Almost every single dish was brought to the wrong table before reaching us and we could see them running around the patio with our order... rather unprofessional. Ultimately, it is the service that leads me to dock a star from my previous rating. Had the food not been as consistently fantastic, I definitely would be docking more. read more

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Had a wonderful brunch today which made it worthwhile to venture out in the cold. The moussaka was hearty, the salad with pears and nuts was very fresh, and we shared a yogurt and berries dessert which was just sweet enough with the honey drizzle. Glad we came on the early side and were seated on the sunny side of the restaurant. Seating was spread out enough for us to have a good conversation. Wait staff was helpful in answering our questions and recommending good choices. We will return! read more

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Kolokithakia / Zucchini Chips (8/10): My favorite dish of the night. The zucchini was delicious, and went well with the tzatziki. However, I didn't think it really lives up to the hype from other reviews. It was good to the extent that fried foods are good. Beyond that, it was a bit too boring to be worth $19. Nothing particularly creative to elevate the dish. Oktapodi / Octopus (7/10): Decent dish, but also did not impress. The pieces with more seasoning definitely tasted better. The rest of the dish tasted rather boring. I wish the octopus had a nicer sear. Keftedes / Lamb Meatballs (7.5/10): Very good lamb meatballs. Super savory. I still don't think these four meatballs are worth $16, though. They're better than NAYA or Cava, but not 3-4x better. Imam / Eggplant (7.5/10): Delicious eggplant. I liked the nice browning of the eggplant skin - it was full of flavor. As for the rest of the dish, it was a bit uninspired. Flavor was a bit dull. The food was all good. I don't think it is worth the price, though. The way the small plates are priced, I'd expect more creativity and more uniqueness infused into each dish. I'd probably consider after at least a 30% price cut. The restaurant was super, super dark. Service was decent. read more

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Had a Friday night reservation at Kava at 7pm. My party of 2 was seated by a window in a tight spot with stool type seating. It was a cold day so I had a jacket that I originally placed on a chair against the wall that was next to me but later had to move it to my lap. Ordered a few dishes and while nothing was bad, there wasn't any particular dish that I'd feel the need to go to Kava specifically to get again. read more

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Very much enjoy this spot. My partner and I shared an entree and three small plates and it was very filling. The space is small, but the ceiling is tall, so you don't feel squish. The drinks were good and the service was wonderful. I would recommend!! read more

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Came here on a recommendation from a friend. Made a reservation same day - came here right when they opened. Had the entire restaurant to ourselves. I looked at ester the waitress and said "take me to Athens" Boy did she. Everything here from the salt to the water to the milk they offer at coffee service , is Greek. You want almond milk? Nope, got Greek replacement. Want coffee? Nope they got freppe -- you guessed it - GREEK! Food was FIRE. You hear and see these dishes often but the flavor -- the flavor!!! Phenomenal octopus and lamb meatballs and beef skewers!! Olive oil to die for! Orange cake -- come on! I was diving in a pool of the freshest oranges.... Delicious take me to Greece because I'm all about this place! read more

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Food was amazing and atmosphere is great. Our waitress was incredibly helpful with wine selection and let us try ones before ordering. However, we had to wait 45 minutes for any meat we ordered. It turned our dinner into over 2 1/2 hours which was frustrating. read more

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Cute little spot in a quiet South End neighborhood with a cozy outdoor seating area. We sat outside and really enjoyed the ambiance--though I did get bitten by a few mosquitos, so maybe bring bug spray? Service was fine--not overly warm, but nothing to complain about either. One downside: there's only one bathroom stall for the entire restaurant, and it wasn't the cleanest. Definitely something that took a bit away from the overall experience. As for the food, it was solid! We had the watermelon salad, one of the dips with bread, and the mixed grill--everything was tasty and the portions were very generous. We left absolutely stuffed. All in all, a nice spot for a casual Mediterranean meal, especially if you can grab a seat outside on a warm day. read more

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Yum!! Having just recently visited Greece, Kava neo-taverna is one of the closest places that'll make you feel like you're stepping back into Greece. They take all the elements of Greek food and turn them into elevated small plates, which is really where this restaurant shines. My partner and I showed up here during the week for dinner without a reservation and we got seated immediately at the bar. The staff said the tables were reserved (even though there were a couple tables available during our entire 1.5 hour dinner which was a bit annoying). The bar space is a bit crowded, especially with there not being a coat rack in the restaurant, so I would recommend reserving in advance if possible. Service was very attentive and friendly which was appreciated. Honestly every dish we tried was delicious, but the standouts were the fried zucchini, beef short rib orzo, and lamb meatballs. The portions were also very generous, so much so that we ended up leaving with leftovers! I'm sure I'll be back to try some more dishes from here. read more

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Hands down some of the most authentic Greek food I've had outside Greece! I 100% reccomend if you're visiting Boston. LOCATION: Spot is in a cute area with both indoor and outdoor seating. I would recommend coming with a reservation. I felt very comfortable outdoors with umbrellas good blockage from the road. FOOD: Loved EVERYTHING that I ate! I particularly loved the Pikilia platter (trio of dips) as the tzatziki is exactly like my family makes it. The star of our dinner were the kolokithakia (zucchini chips): so perfectly salted and an amazing balance with our drinks. We also had dolma which were cabbage wrapped, something new for me! DRINKS: I enjoyed the wines I tried. Wasn't the biggest fan of my cocktail (Athenian Spritz) but that was a personal choice. SERVICE: Everyone was super friendly and helpful, always checking in throughout our meal. For a nice dinner/drinks with truly a authentic Greek feast, I highly recommend KAVA! read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Veggie haters, prepare to be converted by the zucchini chips here! Of course frying veggies and burying them in tartar sauce is a classic way to trick you into higher fiber intake but Kava pulls it off smoothly enough that it feels healthy. It's a must-order item! The octopus is wonderfully chewy and savory. The lavraki (grilled Mediterranean sea bass) was the killing point for me though. Huge, lemon-y, perfectly crispy skin, and clean finish. Not fishy at all, the perfect mild taste you want from a sea bass. And not to mention, literally huge. We were so full after that. The interior feels like Greece, all the shades of blue and white and natural sunlight come together for a relaxed and naturally luxurious "patio by the sea" vibe. The service is fast! Would go again read more

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This spot is so cute! It's very small and quaint with a dimly lit dining room. Staff was great and the food was great! I loved the zucchini chips and the pear arugula salad as well. The moussaka could have used a little more seasoning, but was still great! read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Zucchini chips - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Kava is most certainly a Boston classic. The food is always delicious and so are the drinks. The zucchini chips and the lamb kebabs are a must! The zucchini was very flavorful and the lamb very tender. Drinks were also very delicious. The resteraunt itself is on the smaller side so it provides a more intimate setting. Love Kava for a girls night! read more

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Authentic Greek bites ina cozy Brownstone. We came twice in one week, once for a friend's bday brunch and another for a birthday dinner. Very different vibes. Brunch we sat al fresco outside and enjoyed people watching in sunny South End. Dinner we sat indoors and appreciated the moody lighting and troves of conversations. read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Mixed Grill; lamb, various kebabs, sausage, side of greek potatoes (to die for) - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Never say no to bread. It sets the tone. Zucchini chips came out first - crispy, salty, and a real portion. Business. Then the Paros IPA - crisp, refreshing, and immediately made it clear I would have 2. Lamb meatballs followed - more oval than ball, but I'm not here to police shapes. Sat on a bed of tzatziki. No complaints. Moussaka was next: warm, rich, comforting. I love beef and potatoes. Then pork vs. chicken souvlaki. Waiter warned: pork's fattier, chicken's his preference. Got both. He was right - chicken wins. Only critique: One less dish and we would've had room for baklava... Would go back. Would order less. Would always say yes to bread. read more

I went on Valentine's Day and it was busy, but inviting. The ambiance is dim, cozy, with music paying. I enjoyed it. The food was great. We got several shareable plates including the short rib which came out piping hot and was delicious, the zucchini chips were a stand out and the salad was light and fresh. I also ordered a cucumber vodka drink that was garnished nicely. The server was attentive and everything came out pretty fast. When in Boston, I would definitely recommend. read more

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Very cozy neighborhood joint in the south end. If you are a big group and looking for easy parking, this might not be the best spot. If you want a planned intimate meal (reservations are recommended) tapas style then this is your spot. Overall the food was good. The zucchini chips are what they are known for which I can understand why. They aren't greasy and make for a great semi-fiber/health and semi-guilty pleasure. The tzatziki sauce was good, but not amazing. We loved the sauce that came with the shrimp and started dipping the chips with that sauce. The Octopus was fine, not the best and not the worst. The grilled sea bass was good but not worth the price. It was nice they debone it but there will still some small bones and a few scales. Our least favorite was the beef in grape leaves. It needed a sauce. read more

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Eaaaasy 5 stars for this sweet little spot in the South End! I stopped by on a Saturday afternoon after visiting the Sowa Winter Festival (only a few blocks away) and had such a great meal. First things first: it's not easy to snag a res here. It's super popular, the space is really small, and reservations only open up the day before at 10am. They do save space for walk-ins, but I'd plan carefully if you want a guaranteed table or have a larger group. We started out with a round of Cucumber Tonics which were so fresh, tasty, and honestly dangerous--they went down so easy I could have had a dozen. We chose to practice self control instead, and followed these up with just one round of off-menu espresso martinis, which were also delicious (but a little sweet, definitely a good move for dessert). After reading all the other reviews, I knew we had to start our meal with the kolokithakia (zucchini chips), which truly lived up to the hype. So thin, crispy, and perfectly plated on a bed of tzatziki. We also sampled the grilled octopus, lamb meatballs, and shrimp saganaki. Everything was perfect--no notes!! TLDR: Kava is among some of the very best greek food in the city. The staff is so kind and attentive, and the atmosphere is intimate and chic at the same time. Can't wait to come back! read more

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Kava is a popular spot for good reason. They only open reservations one day in advance at 10am so it's a great option for last minute plans. What we ordered for two people: - lavraki (grilled sea bass) - nicely charred on the outside but a bit overcooked inside and bland. Other places in the city have better whole grilled fish. - imam (eggplant) - loved the eggplant but wish there was more eggplant rather than onions - kolokithakia (zucchini chips) - perfectly crisp with delicious yogurt sauce but the portion is huge so it may be hard to finish with only two people - saganaki (shrimp) - well cooked with flavorful tomato sauce - chicken souvlaki - okay but nothing unique read more

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All I really need to say is that when I shared a picture from here on my IG story, all my local friends were like THAT'S MY FAV SPOT! It truly held up to its reputation. Everything was so good, portions were well sized, and the atmosphere pleasant. When we asked if they had a mocktail lemonade situation, they didn't, but basically made one for us on the spot which was so nice and thoughtful. It was so good! Like a lemonade spritz. Food wise, we got the fried zucchini (HUGE, filling, and so good). Octopus dish was amazing and so flavorful. We got a Mediterranean salad with tomatoes, feta, onions and cucumbers. Delcious and fresh! And then we got a short rib (I think?) situation that was SO good. I will definitely be back! read more

Used to love Kava, but the last two visits have been a letdown. The food's still good and the wine list holds up, but the whole experience now feels cheap, like you're on a timer. Staff hovered from the second we sat down, and dishes came out so fast they barely fit on the table. I asked multiple times to slow it down--didn't matter. The manager paced by our table the entire time, visibly checking our progress. We were handed the check while we still had full glasses of wine. When we said we wanted another round, we were told we'd have to move to the (packed) bar. We'd been there an hour, with a reservation. This place has slipped into churn-and-burn territory--too many tables, servers bumping into you, hurried ambiance, zero sense of hospitality. With so many better options nearby, it's just not worth it anymore. read more

This has to be some of the best Greek food I've had. I was walking by on a visit to Boston and am so happy they had a space at the bar for me. Everything I had was simply amazing! Nothing too extravagant just good food. You must get the zucchini chips with the tzatziki, I cannot stop thinking about that dish! I also fell in love with the Roka salad and will forever be trying to remake it! The inside is very intimate and nicely decorated. All the staff were very friendly and accommodating!! If I find myself back in that area it will be a must go for me! read more

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My friend and I were originally sat at a table by the window. We were asked to move to hightops shortly after, which was uncomfortable and definitely a tighter space. Our original table was instead given to these two ladies who arrived later than us. They seemed to know the manager on the floor. To be honest, was not a pleasant experience. Other than that, very nice waitress and front staff. Food was decent, although the lamb lacked flavor and needed seasoning. The calamari was weirdly too acidic for my taste and the octopus (which is usually my favorite thing on the menu) was too salty. read more

This is one of my favourite restaurants in the city and some of the best Greek food I've ever had. The zucchini chips are a must. The octopus is consistently great in flavor but hit-or-miss on tenderness. I've had it tough some times and tender others. Doesn't bother me that much though. The short rib is spectacular. The bread is ridiculously good (and the olive oil). I also think the baklava is absolutely world-class. read more

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The food here is hands down some of the best in Boston. I cannot recommend coming here for the quality of food and how they make such great dishes with simple ingredients cooked right. The grilled octopus was my absolutely favorite and the viral zucchini chips are good but not great. The service is was great as our waiter provided himself on being Greek and having great insights in what to order. The reason this is not 5 star review is the inside was cramped, crowded, and overall uncomfortable. Please come here and try a little bit everything. It was all very good. Small sized dishes so you do end up spending a lot of money but for a fun night out for a date this would be perfect. read more

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Highly recommend the octopus with olive oil. The portions are quite small we had to each get a plate. We also got the three dips and only really liked one of them. The beef stew and feta cheese were fantastic! Will definitely return. The place is packed on Friday nights and weekend so I'd highly recommend making a reservation. Value: 7/10 Food: 8/10 Service: 8.5/10 Experience: 8/10 read more

So excited to secure a reservation for KAVA on Saturday evening. First-time diners who had heard amazing reviews. Let's start by acknowledging the food is amazing. So authentic, you feel like you're in Greece. The three of us shared four menu items. Our fav without question was the renown zucchini chips (Kolokithakia), followed by the baked feta (Bouyoirdi), braised beef short rib (Uvetsi) and in forth place, the grilled octopus (Oktapodi). The portions were perfect for three and the pacing of our order was excellent. If I could do the evening over again, I wouldn't have sat inside. The tables are too small and too close together. The seats were very uncomfortable. And what was most surprising, it took over 10 minutes to get someone to clear our plates and provide our check. read more

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Food was actually great! Just felt kinda discriminated here. Staff was only nice to those white folks and I was patty ignored except my waitress. The tall guy seems like the manager was only greeting to white people asking how it is made me feel sick to my stomach. I did not want to experience an Asian hate here and when I dine out, especially when food is not that cheap. read more

KAVA was very cozy! It was a dark, small, sultry ambience. The service was very good all around. I went for dinner and tried five different plates. The fried zucchini was definitely the star of the show! Excellent texture and delicious dip. Unfortunately the octopus did not live up to the hype. It was very chewy and I didn't love the texture or the seasoning. I enjoyed the lamb meatballs tho. Overall it was a nice dinner! read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Octopodi - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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One of our favorite neighborhood places. The reservation system can be a bit annoying (opening for reservations the day before), so over time we've just tried our luck with walking in and sitting at the bar which has actually worked out quite well on most nights. As it's a small space and can be quite busy, it's not the place to linger once you're done with your meal (as there's often a crowd waiting to take your place). The food and drinks are consistently good. Our favorites include the Athenian Spritz, kolokithakia, uvetsi, the chicken souvlaki. We always look forward to going back. read more

We loved it! Very crowded and high energy, but the food was amazing and service was excellent.

KAVA neo-taverna is time and time again on lists of best restaurants in Boston, and pictures of their zucchini chips have been following me all over the internet so I came to check them out. Kolokithakia (zucchini chips with tzatziki) - great texture combination between the fried exterior, zucchini interior, and the creaminess of the tzatziki. It was good, but definitely a dish that needs to be shared because it gets boring quickly. Oktapodi (grilled octopus, olive oil, lemon, oregano) - pretty standard grilled octopus Kalamarakia tia skaras (grilled calamari, olives, mint, olive oil, lemon) - loved the flavor combination, but wish they were a bit stronger. This dish also came out lukewarm bordering on cold... Imam (eggplant, tomato, onion, garlic, kasseri cheese) - saving grace of the meal, this came out piping hot and was a fun combination of flavors and textures. Also, my table had grease stains on the paper table setting presumably from the prior party, which I would generally not expect from a restaurant like this. 3.5/5 stars rounded up to a 4. read more

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This used to be my favorite restaurant in Boston - very authentic, full of flavor, and great service. My last visit was kinda meh: Service was mostly still kind (depends on who we interacted with), atmosphere in a Saturday agreeing was really vibrant, and the food... was just okay. The grilled calamari and the fried zucchini were delicious, hands down. Both salads (Arugula + halumi and tomato + cuc + feta) felt very "wet". Also, all dishes (wet the exception of zucchini were smaller than I remember. Also too small for their price. For example, the halumi cheese was really really small :( the calamari disappeared in seconds, and not just because it was good. I'd come back again, but I think that a couple more pieces of tomato wouldn't kill them read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Tiny halumi salad (over dressed, but still good) - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Hmm. Portions small. Price large. Cold seating by door. Curtain doesn't help. Food service fine but food lacking in taste and preparation. Will not return . read more

I have only heard great things about Kava - 3 separate people recommended this place to me. Now I wish they hadn't, because I went in with very high expectations, but ended up not being impressed with the food. It is very likely that I am simply not familiar with the flavor profile of these dishes, which is why I gave 4 stars instead of 3. The stuffed cabbage was delicious, though. I also think some items were overpriced for the amount you get; I left the restaurant not really feeling full. I thought the service was decent. The restaurant itself is very small and can get quite loud because it is so busy. I don't plan on going back, I just wish I had gone in with lower expectations. read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Lahano Dolmades - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I kinda don't want to leave this review because it's already hard to get a table here as is but!!!! BEST Greek food in Boston!!! Great ambiance, service, wine, music and dessert!!! read more

Great food great atmosphere. Just not full bar. Zucchini chips are my favorite! Highly recommend read more

KAVA neo-taverna - Sea Bass - Greek Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Outstanding Greek food whose specialty is small seafood offerings. My husband and I shared $200 worth of food over two meals. My favorites were the grilled octopus, the halloumi, and the fried zucchini. We got it for takeout, but the ambiance is small, intimate, chic, and dimly lit, with actual authentic Greek music playing. Our entree, however, was disappointing. We got the mixed grill to sample a variety of meats, but most of the meat skewers and sausages were notably dry. These were no better than what you'd find at Mediterranean fast food spots. The only thing that we liked was the paidaka - grilled lamb, which we found to be extremely tender. Kolokithakia Oktapodi Keftedes Kalamarakia Tia Skaras Mixed Grill Horiatiki Roka Imam Kounoupidi Tirokafteri - Spicy Feta Galaktoboureko read more

Just a great spot overall. Great food, great service, great cute south end vibes. We also overstayed our welcome wayyy beyond our allocated time and we apologized, but they didn't mind at all and were very accommodating. The halloumi salad was amazing, highly recommend. Octopus was great and I feel like the zucchini chips are just a must as everyone orders them and they're really good. Messed up on which feta we wanted to order, so will definitely need to come back. read more

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