When cravings call for Mediterranean, the eye of the storm is through the stomach. Simple and fresh ingredients run the Greek gamut on Long Island preserving the foods natural tastes in the process. Eight Long Island Greek restaurants have a knack for leaving guests with a healthy dose of satisfaction.
Related Content: Go Greek Opens in Garden City
Platia, Syosset
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Platia’s menu delivers both conventional and creative Greek cuisine; generous portions are just part of the bargain. When it comes to quality, the seafood selections are not to be taken lightly, especially the octopus. Char-grilled octopus harmonizes with vinegar, olive oil and oregano for a bite as tender as the most expensive filet mignon. Go.
MP Taverna, Roslyn
There are no wrong choices at this traditional Greek tavern. Chef and owner Michael Psilakis works to incorporate Greek cuisine as an everyday food choice through rustic and authentic presentations. Standout dishes include flavor-packed “grandma’s Greek meatballs,” the signature MP chopped salad and lamb chops garnished with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes and red onions. Go.
Taverna 38, Williston Park
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Hospitality is the name of the game at neighborhood restaurant Taverna 38. There are cozy white leather booths and chairs, light wood-grain tables and white curtains with blue accents that treat guests with warmth. Complementing the genuine décor impressive entrees feature the Garides Psites, sautéed shrimp dressed with tomatoes, feta, garlic and white wine and the Greek Paella, a mix of fine, fresh shellfish simmered in tomato and served over orzo. Go.
Kyma, Roslyn
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Kyma knows how to treat its guests like royalty. There are high ceilings, billowing curtains, stone accents and of course classic high-end Greek cuisine. The oven-baked baby lamb shank with orzo, feta and tomato sauce and the grilled giant tiger shrimp glazed in extra virgin olive oil and lemon know how to attract and audience and keep them lingering. Go.
Yiasou Yeeros, Plainview
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This one is for the gyro lovers. Think beef, lamb and chicken gyros that stand by antibiotic-and hormone-free meat. Plus, menu items are available individually or in a platter for the whole family, with specials like the “Little Village” assortment, consisting of gyros, burgers and souvlaki for four people. Go.
Go Greek, Garden City
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Go Greek’s kitchen is as simple as they come. There is no freezer, microwave or even a can opener in sight. Everything is prepared as straightforward as possible incorporating non-GMO and antibiotic-free meats, hand-selected spices, fresh beans and olive oil directly from the owners’ family-operated farm in Greece. Definitely add the chicken, pork and vegetarian gyros, lamb souvlaki, dolmades, tzatziki and spanakopita to your foodie buck list. Go.
Neraki Greek Mediterranean Grill, Huntington
Nestled in the charming town of Huntington, Neraki delivers exquisite seasonal and market driven menus. Seafood is the all-encompassing show stealer. For starters, those who fancy sardines are in luck, the sardeles are delicious grilled or pan-fried. As far as entrees go, any of the flounder, salmon or scallop selections are top notch. Go.
The Greek Grill, Huntington
The casual nature of this laid-back hideaway is what makes it a local gem. Come for the traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki and spanakopita and stay for the fun Mediterranean delights like homemade hummus and falafel. And of course gyros. Go.