The 8 Best greek restaurants in Jamaica New York City
Greek restaurants in Jamaica, NYC, offer a tantalizing escape to the Mediterranean right in the heart of New York City. These establishments bring the rich, authentic flavors of Greece to your table, complete with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere. With a variety of dishes to choose from, including classic gyro, souvlaki, and moussaka, as well as mouth-watering desserts such as baklava, these restaurants provide an unforgettable culinary experience, transporting you to the sunny Greek islands without leaving Jamaica, Queens.
1. Pylos
Experience the flavors of Greece in the heart of NYC

Pylos offers a delightful dining experience with its inviting atmosphere and authentic Greek cuisine. The staff provides excellent service, ensuring a memorable meal for all guests. Among the standout dishes, the baklava is particularly noteworthy, with its perfect balance of sweetness and flaky texture.
Diners can anticipate a taste of the Mediterranean with Pylos's menu, featuring traditional staples such as moussaka and spanakopita. The cozy ambiance, coupled with the exceptional food, makes for an enjoyable meal. It is highly recommended to include Pylos in your dining plans for an unforgettable encounter with Greek culinary traditions.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Periyali
A taste of Greece in the heart of NYC.

Periyali has always been a highly regarded Greek restaurant, but the recent renovation has elevated it to an even higher level. The food quality is now exceptional, and while not inexpensive, the generous portion sizes make it worthwhile for dishes like salads, fish, and lamb chops. The atmosphere remains intimate and cozy, making it an ideal location for a romantic evening.
Periyali has been a beloved Greek restaurant for many patrons for the past 30 years. A recent visit featured a selection of excellent appetizers, including giant beans and a hummus-like dish. The lamb chops, a consistent favorite, were once again outstanding. The restaurant's location is not convenient for everyone, but for those willing to make the trip, the quality of the food and overall dining experience makes it well worth the effort.
3. Nerai
A contemporary twist on sophisticated Greek dining

The restaurant offers exceptional Greek cuisine, featuring dishes that are both well-presented and bursting with unique flavors. Standout menu items include Lavraki, a whole grilled fish, and Pastitsada, a dish consisting of pasta topped with braised beef or rooster. The dessert selection is equally impressive, with highlights such as Saragli, a sweet pastry with layers of filo and chopped nuts, and Sokolatina, a rich chocolate cake.
The service at this establishment is characterized as friendly, professional, and efficient, creating an overall pleasant dining experience. Servers are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, providing excellent recommendations. However, some reviewers have noted that the service can start and end late, which may affect the timing of the meal. Additionally, a few reviewers have mentioned that the wait staff appeared to be stressed during their visit. Despite these minor issues, the majority of reviews overall are highly positive, with patrons praising the quality of the food and the high level of service.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Stamatis
Experience a taste of Greece in the heart of Astoria

Stamatis offers an authentic Greek dining experience with standout dishes like the Red Snapper and Pork Souvlaki, which are skillfully prepared and full of flavor. The Galaktoboureko dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, reminiscent of a family home, is complemented by a team of staff who are both friendly and attentive.
The reviewer's meal at Stamatis consisted of a variety of Greek comfort foods that left them more than satisfied. The avgolemono soup, in particular, stood out for its rich and tangy flavor, complete with pieces of tender chicken. The service provided by the team, including a server who had recently arrived from Greece, was knowledgeable and welcoming. The reviewer ended up ordering too much food and took most of it home to enjoy later. Overall, a highly recommended dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
5. Sweet Afton
Astoria's best spot for craft beers and burgers.

Sweet Afton boasts a charming decor that enhances the dining experience. Exposed brick, velvet curtains, and delicate flowers on tables establish an intimate ambiance, making it an ideal location for a romantic date or a lively gathering with friends.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
6. Donovan's Pub
Woodside's Landmark Gathering Place since 1966

Donovan's Pub is known for its welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, making it a popular spot in the neighborhood with a large Irish population. The pub offers a diverse menu featuring traditional Irish and American cuisine, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Prices are reasonable, ensuring that guests can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
In addition to its delicious food, Donovan's Pub boasts outstanding customer service, with friendly and attentive staff who go the extra mile to make guests feel welcome. The pub's lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music performances on weekends, creating an upbeat and energetic ambiance. Despite its bustling atmosphere, Donovan's Pub manages to maintain a family-friendly environment, with separate dining areas away from the bar for those seeking a quieter meal. Overall, Donovan's Pub is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for great food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Lola Taverna
Bringing the magic of the Greek Isles to Soho.

Lola Taverna, a lively and fashionable restaurant in the heart of SoHo, has gained a reputation for its mouthwatering lamb chops that have foodies and socialites eagerly lining up for a taste. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with a chic and modern décor that complements the innovative Greek-inspired dishes being served.
Despite the hype around its tender and flavorful lamb chops, Lola Taverna also offers a mix of Greek-inspired dishes that may be seen as overpriced by some diners. While the presentation of the dishes is visually appealing, the taste and quality of the food do not necessarily live up to the steep prices, causing some to raise eyebrows at the value-for-money proposition. However, for those seeking a trendy and upscale dining experience, Lola Taverna's allure is undeniable.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Snack Taverna
Soulful Greek cuisine with a West Village vibe.

A charming and cozy ambiance awaits at this Greek restaurant nestled in West Village's quiet streets. The casual atmosphere makes it an inviting spot for all types of diners.
The Greek salads on the menu are a standout, showcasing fresh and traditional ingredients. High-quality produce is used, elevating the simple dish to something truly satisfying. The dressing, in particular, shines and enhances the flavors of the vegetables and olives. A must-try for all visitors.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner