Forest Hills gets a lot of attention because of its Tudor architecture and tennis history, and it’s that rare Queens neighborhood where you can still find authentic family-run spots tucked between the high-rises. Whether you’re there to argue that Rego Park is its own thing (it is, but it’s not), proudly rock a Forest Hills High School hoodie, or simply to find the perfect spanakopita before catching the E train, we’ve got you covered.
Taverna Kyclades Bayside
$$ | (718) 631-2000 | WEBSITE
Located in Bayside, Taverna Kyclades serves seafood pasta, grilled calamari, and lamb chops that draw crowds daily. But it’s their perfectly seasoned grilled octopus and fresh fish that’s the main attraction here. Cooking and eating it feels like you’re playing a tongs-and-lemon version of a seaside feast (but without the sand). The bright dining room gets lively thanks to the families, groups of friends, and the sizzling sounds from the open kitchen.
All of the high-quality seafood is fresh, from the stuffed shrimp with crab meat to the fried whiting. Throw in some pita with tzatziki or a huge slab of feta salad to round out the meal and find out which friend has some culinary skills.
Gus and Marty’s
$$$ | (929) 745-2806 | WEBSITE
At this Forest Hills spot, the standout dishes include moussaka, taramasalata, whipped feta, crispy anchovies, gigantes, octopus souvlaki, and gyros (you’ll need at least the moussaka if you want to be satisfied), as well as a lamb riblets option that ups the ante with thoughtful preparation and rich flavor. And if you’re not in the mood for a gyro, the spinach pie and octopus get the job done. They’re all delightful and work perfectly when you need a lively, comforting meal.
There’s ample seating for sipping on an enjoyable wine and staring at the sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere between bites of the most satisfying Greek food you’ve had in weeks.
Elea
$$$ | (212) 369-9800 | WEBSITE
In a sea of other buzzy Greek spots, Elea is a cozy, kebab-filled standout. The Forest Hills restaurant serves excellent spreads, pita, and chicken kebabs that are larger than your plate. Order each of those, plus their fresh-centered fish, and get comfortable at the quiet patio outside. The drink program is no slouch either (wines are sourced from excellent selections), so you could also relax at the cozy bar with just a bottomless mimosa.
Telly’s Taverna
$$ | (718) 728-9056 | WEBSITE
Telly’s Taverna is a comfortable space where some people share family-style platters, and others savor fresh fish while “sharing” family-style platters. The menu at this taverna features options like incredible Greek salads and tzatziki for starters, and tender lamb kabob with crispy potatoes or grilled jumbo shrimp with rice for mains. We usually go for the saganaki. The Telly’s signature dishes are all solid, but their perfectly cooked branzino is the best in town.
Stamatis
$$ | (718) 932-8596 | WEBSITE
When parking at Stamatis gets a little bit tricky, we seriously consider circling the block a few extra times just to secure a spot. It would be worth the minor hassle just to get our hands on that roasted lamb from this Forest Hills spot a little sooner. The lemonaise sauce gives the dish a bright edge, plus the portion of lamb you get feels like it came from a whole animal.
But we prefer it this way: nestled on rib bones with roasted potatoes and for way more ($32) than a quick meal down the street.
Aliada
$$ | (718) 932-2240 | WEBSITE
Aliada is the best Greek restaurant in Astoria. This Queens spot is where you go for classics like grilled calamari and octopus, as well as lamb ribs and Shrimp Santorini. The dining room has lots of large wooden tables, so it’s an easy place to walk in with a few friends at the last minute, pass around some wine, and eat huge portions of swordfish. While there are lots of dishes on the menu, the Kopanisti is the clear highlight.
The creamy whipped feta has a peppery kick, giving it a nice blend of tang and spice. Since the service is always warm and attentive, it’s a good solution after a long day or after exploring Forest Hills and realizing you want authentic Greek flavors without the fuss.
Little Greece
$ | (718) 310-6030 | WEBSITE
Come hungry and prepare to leave satisfied. The generous portions and flavorful dishes are worth every bite at this City Island gem. The cozy counter-service spot serves tender lamb gyro pita sandwiches, homemade tzatziki with perfect tang, and crispy Greek-style fries loaded with herbs. There’s limited seating inside, but it’s not about where you’ll enjoy your meal—it’s about savoring authentic Greek food made with passion.
Avra Madison
$$$$ | (212) 937-0100 | WEBSITE
Avra Madison has a single location in Forest Hills where they serve a fantastic fusion of Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with a focus on healthy, delicious food. All of their dishes are thoughtfully prepared and come with fresh ingredients like grilled vegetables and quality seafood. And they’ll all come in handy when you want a relaxing dining experience without breaking the bank. The $28 salmon with grilled vegetables is the can’t-miss thing to get here.
The sauce they drizzle it with is like a light, herby vinaigrette with a brightness so refreshing we wipe the plate just to get the last taste. The wine selection is of the best quality and taste, and the staff is very nice and helpful. While some might find the halibut or NY strip steak less satisfying, the overall experience—especially the warm, welcoming ambiance and beautifully designed space—makes it highly recommended.
Souvlaki GR Kouzina
$$ | (212) 832-0395 | WEBSITE
Although it’s one of the top Greek spots in the city, there’s never a wait at Souvlaki GR Kouzina in Midtown Manhattan. This means you’ll feel like you’re the guest of honor when you come in for an order of flavorful lamb chops with lemon potatoes or a Greek salad with life-changing feta. You can always count on this place for excellent meatballs that are well-seasoned so they have a savory, herby pop to each bite—they’re even better as a wrap in a warm, soft pita.
You’ll encounter families who’ve been here three times this week and friends pulling out wine (it’s BYOB) while they wait for a fresh moussaka platter to share.
Underhill Cafe Brooklyn
$$ | (718) 484-3744 | WEBSITE
Underhill Cafe Brooklyn has a cozy, inviting storefront near Pacific Street, and if you somehow happen to miss that, the aroma of roasting pork and fresh herbs will draw you in. And it’s the hearty souvlaki platters with creamy tzatziki that will keep you coming back.
A chicken and potatoes plate here only costs $14, and while they have excellent options like the spinach pie, chicken caprese sandwich, and vegetarian selections, there’s nothing better than the pork souvlaki loaded with onions and tangy tzatziki. These platters have so much flavor, you’ll just have to assume there’s a bed of potatoes somewhere underneath.
They also offer complimentary baklava at the end of meals and Mythos beer on tap, so this is a good move after a day exploring the neighborhood or catching up with friends.
Tinos
$$ | (646) 370-6067 | WEBSITE
Tinos serves the most authentic Greek food in Forest Hills. The pita and eggplant dip somehow stays warm and pillowy despite working as a sturdy base perfect for scooping up the chunks of dorado, octopus, and the many other dishes that come on their extensive menu.
One of our favorites at this cozy family-owned spot (which offers complimentary desserts on certain nights), is the simultaneously rich and refreshing Greek salad, topped with crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and feta over a bed of fresh romaine.
