Craving a bite of Greece without leaving Illinois?
Step inside these nine restaurants, and you’ll be greeted by the scent of sizzling lamb, fresh herbs, and warm pita straight from the oven.
The walls hum with Mediterranean charm, and every dish tells a story of sun-soaked islands and bustling Athenian markets.
Locals flock here for more than the food—they come for the feeling of stepping into another world. From tzatziki that dances on your tongue to baklava that melts like honeyed sunshine, each plate is a little vacation on its own.
Grab a fork, sip some ouzo, and let these hidden gems transport you. In Illinois, you don’t need a plane ticket to taste the magic of Athens—just a hearty appetite and a sense of adventure.
Greek Islands — Chicago
With marble counters and a lively atmosphere, Greek Islands offers a slice of Athens in Chicago’s Greektown. Plates of saganaki, grilled octopus, and whole fish invite communal dining, echoing the warmth of a classic taverna.
Family recipes and swift service complete the experience. Regulars cherish the charred seafood and generous servings that encourage sharing. The combination of bright lemon flavors and flaky spanakopita creates a bustling Athenian evening atmosphere.
For first-timers, the lively room and delicious food make it a memorable experience, reminiscent of dining in Greece’s vibrant capital.
Athena Restaurant — Chicago
In Greektown, Athena Restaurant brings Mediterranean hospitality with a full menu of Greek classics. Emphasizing fresh seafood and grilled meats, the dining room invites long meals and lively conversation.
Comfortable décor and a broad menu cater to varied tastes. Locals appreciate Athena’s reliable favorites and its taverna-like atmosphere where plates are shared, and wine flows.
The service keeps the rhythm of a classic Greek meal, making each visit feel like a neighborhood gathering. With a focus on familiar flavors executed well, Athena stands out in Chicago’s Greek dining scene.
Ithaki Estiatorio — Chicago
Ithaki Estiatorio in Greektown blends island-style seafood with contemporary flair. Located in a site with historical roots, the Mykonos-chic design features open lines and a vibrant bar.
The menu highlights fresh fish imported from Greece and Spain, adding theatrical touches to traditional dishes. Known for its stylish ambiance, Ithaki offers an elegant dining experience that feels like an evening on a Greek island.
The focus on authentic flavors and energetic city pulse makes it a favorite among locals and food critics alike. Ithaki promises a modern, polished twist on Greek classics.
Avli (Avli River North / Avli on the Park) — Chicago
Avli in River North evokes a Santorini patio, inviting diners to share plates and enjoy a communal experience. The menu boasts grilled meats, bright salads, and meze, ideal for both casual lunches and festive dinners.
Locals favor Avli for its sunny patio, Greek-inspired cocktails, and balance of comforting classics with lighter dishes. Whether sipping ouzo or sharing octopus, Avli recreates the relaxed, communal rhythm of Greek dining.
The atmosphere encourages long tables and late-night conversations, capturing the essence of a Greek island gathering in the heart of Chicago.
KALA Modern Greek — Chicago
KALA Modern Greek reimagines street-food classics with modern flair. Offering skewers, bowls, and shareable plates, KALA suits busy city diners seeking authentic flavors quickly. The interiors blend contemporary design with nods to olive groves, and the food emphasizes fresh herbs and citrus.
Grilled meats capture the essence of island flavors in an accessible format. Locals frequent KALA for quick lunches or group orders, enjoying a modern spin on traditional Athenian fast-casual dining. KALA honors the classics while delivering a fresh twist, making it a favorite for convenient yet flavorful meals.
Andros Taverna — Chicago
Andros Taverna in Logan Square brings the heart of a Greek tavern to Chicago. Emphasizing wood-grilled meats and homestyle dishes, the menu celebrates seasonal produce and comforting flavors. Locals enjoy its approachable yet refined offerings like tender lamb and smoky eggplant spreads.
The warm setting encourages lingering, reminiscent of Athens’ smaller tavernas. Andros captures a neighborhood vibe where simple ingredients and confident cooking create a relaxed dining culture. It’s a place where community and cuisine come together, offering a taste of Greek village cooking in a Chicago neighborhood.
Naxos — Itasca
Naxos in Itasca celebrates the Cyclades with generous seafood platters and tender lamb chops. Its family-style service and island-inspired recipes make dinners festive and inviting. Locals in the northwest suburbs consider Naxos a go-to for special occasions or authentic Greek meals.
Plates arrive ready to share, creating an experience akin to dining in Athens’ vibrant eateries. Flavors like garlicky lemon and oregano-grilled meats transport diners to Greece. Naxos provides a convincing Athens-adjacent experience in suburban Illinois, where hospitality and tradition combine for memorable meals.
Vasili’s Mediterranean — Naperville
Vasili’s in Naperville combines Greek hearth cooking with Mediterranean warmth. The menu features wood-grilled entrees and house-made spreads, with a dining room favored by families.
Charred octopus, lamb, and oven-fired specialties add deep flavor and rustic charm. Its popularity stems from consistently flavorful plates and hospitable service, making it feel like a small Athenian taverna.
For diners outside the city, Vasili’s offers an authentic Greek experience focused on grilled meats and shareable starters. The relaxed atmosphere and traditional dishes create a cozy escape to Greece in suburban Illinois.
Psistaria Greek Taverna — Lincolnwood
Psistaria in Lincolnwood offers a family-owned taverna experience with everyday Greek favorites. Gyros, souvlaki, and generous meze make it a neighborhood spot for classic comfort food. The approachable, well-executed staples draw steady weekday crowds, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Psistaria feels like a daytime taverna from Athens’ neighborhoods, where lemon, oregano, and grilled char define the flavors. With reliable hours and family-style portions, it invites relaxed, communal dining.
Psistaria’s straightforward flavors and inviting setting make it a beloved destination for those seeking authentic Greek cuisine close to home.