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Souvlaki GR - Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
Souvlaki GR - Lower East Side
8.4
Souvlaki GR’s original brick-and-mortar on Stanton Street brings a whitewashed, alleyway-in-Mykonos feel to the Lower East Side, backed by a menu of charcoal-grilled skewers, pitas, and hearty casseroles. With 1000+ combined reviews across platforms and a long-running run since 2011, it’s a reliable choice for groups who want spreads, salads, and skewers in a lively, transportive room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken souvlaki pita, Octapodo ksidato (charcoal-grilled octopus), Moussakas with béchamel and eggplant
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A long-running LES spot for souvlaki, pitas, and Greek comfort dishes in a Mykonos-inspired setting.
Who should go: Friends sharing skewers, pitas, and spreads over drinks
When to visit: Prime dinner hours for full energy, earlier for shorter waits
What to order: Chicken souvlaki pita, grilled octopus, moussakas
Insider tip: Build a table of dips and salads first, then share a mix of skewers and casseroles as mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Stanton Street; expect to circle during peak hours. Nearest paid garages are along Ludlow and Essex, typically $25–$35.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests lean polished but relaxed. Jeans and nice tops are totally appropriate.
Noise level: Lively with consistent background music; conversations are doable but expect energy and chatter during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins depending on party size; groups of 4+ may wait longer.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; light-to-moderate flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including Greek salads, spanakopita, fries, and dips.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—salads without cheese and select sides; best to confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Many grilled skewers and salads are naturally gluten-free; ask about pita substitutions and cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, lively first date where energy and shared plates help break the ice. The space is upbeat rather than intimate, so it’s ideal for fun rather than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect variable waits at peak dinner hours. Arriving early or later in the evening improves your chances; groups benefit most from calling ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy grilled meats and casual dining. The tight LES space and louder atmosphere may be less ideal for toddlers or strollers.
Best For
Better for: A transportive Mykonos-style setting, dependable skewers, and group-friendly spreads at approachable prices—ideal for casual celebrations or catching up with friends.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic Greek dinner or ultra-traditional preparations; nearby spots with calmer atmospheres may suit those needs better.