• Admin
• Mar 18, 2025
• Restaurants & Food

10 Highly-Rated Greek Restaurants in Chicago

Best 10 Must-Try Greek Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and Greek cuisine holds a special place among the city’s diverse offerings. From the bustling streets of Greektown to hidden gems in the suburbs, the Restaurants in Chicago serving Greek dishes bring a taste of the Mediterranean to the Windy City. Whether you’re craving succulent lamb chops, creamy tzatziki, or flaky spanakopita, this guide dives into the Best Restaurants Chicago has to offer for Greek food lovers. Beyond the classics, these spots blend authenticity with innovation, making them stand out among Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago, Italian Restaurants Chicago, and even Sushi Restaurants in Chicago. Perfect for vegetarians, families, or anyone seeking Outdoor Dining Chicago, these Greek eateries cater to all. Ready to explore Vegetarian Restaurants Chicago, Pizza Places Chicago, or Seafood Restaurants Chicago with a Greek twist? Let’s uncover the top 10 must-try Greek restaurants that elevate Chicago’s dining landscape.

Exploring Chicago’s Greek Dining Scene

Chicago’s Greek dining scene thrives thanks to its rich history of Greek immigration, dating back to the 1840s. Many immigrants settled in Greektown along Halsted Street, establishing a legacy of family-run eateries. Today, these Restaurants in Chicago range from casual Takeout Restaurants Chicago to upscale Romantic Restaurants in Chicago, offering something for every palate. This section uncovers 800 words of pure Greek culinary delight, spotlighting three key areas: iconic Greektown staples, suburban surprises, and modern innovators. Whether you’re after Healthy Restaurants Chicago or indulgent Brunch Spots Chicago, these spots deliver.

Iconic Greektown Staples

Greektown remains the heart of Chicago’s Greek food culture, and its Best Restaurants Chicago draw locals and tourists alike. First up is Greek Islands, a legendary spot at 200 S Halsted St. Since opening in 1971, it’s been a beacon for authentic Greek fare. Picture flaming saganaki shouting “Opa!” as it hits the table, paired with tender roast lamb or fresh red snapper. This Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago gem imports its olive oil, cheeses, and wines from Greece, ensuring a true taste of the homeland. With a lively atmosphere and Outdoor Dining Chicago on a heated patio, it’s perfect for gatherings. Craving Food Delivery Services Chicago? They’ve got you covered with a robust takeout menu.

Next, Athena Restaurant at 212 S Halsted St keeps the Greektown spirit alive. Known for its warm ambiance and open-air patio, it’s a standout among Romantic Restaurants in Chicago. The menu dazzles with chargrilled octopus, homemade gyros, and chicken kapama—a braised dish bursting with flavor. It’s not just about meat; Vegetarian Restaurants Chicago fans will love the moussaka and pastitsio options. Affordable and welcoming, Athena blends tradition with a modern vibe, making it a top pick for Lunch Restaurants Chicago or dinner.

Suburban Surprises

Beyond the city limits, suburban Greek restaurants shine as hidden treasures among Restaurants in Chicago. Cross-Rhodes in Evanston (913 Chicago Ave) is a local favorite since 1984. Housed in a historic meatpacking plant, this cozy spot serves up crispy spanakopita and well-seasoned lamb chops in a warm, inviting setting. It’s a hit for Affordable Restaurants Chicago, with generous portions and family-style dinners that leave you full and happy. Vegetarians rejoice—there’s plenty here for Vegan Restaurants Chicago enthusiasts too. Pair your meal with a BYOB bottle, and you’ve got a budget-friendly night out.

In Niles, Mykonos (8660 W Golf Rd) brings over 40 years of Greek excellence to the suburbs. Think chargrilled octopus, juicy kabobs, and fresh seafood like grouper, all served with a side of nostalgia. This Seafood Restaurants Chicago contender offers a full bar and Cocktail Bars in Chicago vibes, perfect for unwinding. It’s also a go-to for Takeout Restaurants Chicago, with weekly lunch specials that keep regulars coming back. Mykonos proves you don’t need to trek downtown for top-tier Greek eats.

Modern Innovators

Chicago’s Greek scene isn’t stuck in the past—modern spots are redefining the cuisine. Taxim in Wicker Park (1558 N Milwaukee Ave) elevates Greek dining with a creative edge. Chef David Schneider crafts seasonal small plates like duck gyros and wood-roasted eggplant, paired with an extensive Greek wine list. The rooftop bar screams Outdoor Dining Chicago, offering city views and a trendy vibe. It’s a darling of Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago, blending sophistication with accessibility—ideal for Brunch Spots Chicago or a romantic date night.

Avli Taverna in Lincoln Park (1335 N Wells St) brings contemporary flair to Greek classics. Chef Louie Alexakis serves perfectly textured moussaka and lamb dishes in a chic, tree-lined setting. This Healthy Restaurants Chicago spot challenges diners with bold flavors and ouzo lessons from bartenders. With expansions in River North and beyond, Avli’s empire is growing, cementing its status among Best Restaurants Chicago. It’s a must-visit for Food Delivery Services Chicago fans seeking elevated takeout.

Rounding Out the Top 10 Greek Gems

Beyond the spotlighted six, four more restaurants complete our list of Chicago’s Greek elite. These picks weave tradition with local charm, ensuring every bite feels like a Mediterranean escape.

Santorini

Nestled at 800 W Adams St in Greektown, Santorini is a seafood lover’s paradise among Seafood Restaurants Chicago. Known for its whole-roasted fish and grilled octopus, it’s been a staple for over 30 years. The cozy, whitewashed decor evokes Greece, making it a top Romantic Restaurants in Chicago. Families adore its welcoming vibe, ranking it high among Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago.

Psistaria

In Lincolnwood (4711 W Touhy Ave), Psistaria delivers homestyle Greek comfort. From pork skewers to Athenian chicken, it’s a suburban star for Affordable Restaurants Chicago. The open-air kitchen adds a fun twist, and its Takeout Restaurants Chicago game is strong, perfect for quick meals.

Lyra

Logan Square’s Lyra (905 N Milwaukee Ave) modernizes Greek cuisine with flair. Chef Doug Psaltis offers wood-fired dishes like lamb chops and feta spreads in a sleek space. It’s a contender for Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago and Cocktail Bars in Chicago, with a vibe that suits both dates and brunches.

Artopolis Bakery

At 306 S Halsted St, Artopolis Bakery doubles as a café and bakery. Fresh pastries, gyros, and salads make it a standout for Lunch Restaurants Chicago and Healthy Restaurants Chicago. Its casual charm fits perfectly into Food Courts Chicago culture, offering quick, delicious bites.

Why These Greek Restaurants Stand Out?

What sets these 10 apart in a city brimming with Chinese Restaurants in Chicago, Barbecue Restaurants Chicago, and Best Pizza in Chicago? It’s their blend of authenticity, innovation, and hospitality. From Greek Islands’ imported ingredients to Taxim’s rooftop allure, they cater to diverse tastes—vegetarian, vegan, or meat-heavy. They shine in Chicago Restaurant Reviews for their consistency and ability to adapt, whether through Food Delivery Services Chicago or Outdoor Dining Chicago. Compared to Italian Restaurants Chicago or Sushi Restaurants in Chicago, their bold flavors and communal dining style offer a unique escape.