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Elia
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Elia
8.6
Polished modern Greek with a seafood-forward menu, attentive service, and a lively bar right on Locust Street. Locals use it for date nights and celebrations, with mezze-to-grill dishes done with care.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Octopus, Lavraki (branzino), Lamb Chops (Arnisia Paidakia)
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Refined Greek cooking with strong seafood and a serious bar.
Who should go: Couples, celebrations, seafood lovers
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7 for easier reservations and bar seats
What to order: Grilled octopus, lavraki, lamb chops
Insider tip: Bar seating moves fastest for walk-ins on busy weekends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Locust can be tight after 6pm; nearby public garages on Locust and Cypress typically have spots. Valet offered Friday–Saturday evenings ($10).
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—think polished jeans, button-downs, or chic dresses. Most guests elevate slightly for date night or celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—expect a buzzy atmosphere with music and conversation, but still possible to talk across the table.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation after 6:30pm; bar seating fills quickly but turns over regularly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is relaxed and efficient for midweek meals.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample mezze options (spreads, salads, spanakopita, grilled vegetables) and a few mains.
Vegan options: Limited—roughly 2–3 dishes can be modified on request; staff is knowledgeable about adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many items are naturally gluten-free (grilled proteins, salads, seafood); gluten-free pita available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Elia’s intimate lighting, polished service, and lively bar set an ideal tone for a romantic but not stiff evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed—try early evening walk-ins at the bar or patio. Reservations are strongly advised on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—best suited for adults or older teens. No children’s menu or play area, and the ambience leans toward date-night and social gatherings.
Best For
Better for: Upscale Greek dining, attentive service, and seafood execution surpass most local Mediterranean spots in both polish and presentation.
Skip if: You’re after quick takeout or a casual gyro lunch—this is a sit-down, full-service experience built for evenings out.
Elia
8.6
Upscale Greek with polished service, a lively bar, and seafood-forward specials; Executive Chef Mehmet Duygu oversees a broad mezze-to-grill menu. Locals use it for date nights and celebrations in the heart of downtown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Octopus with Lemon-Oregano, Lamb Chops, Saganaki
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Refined Greek cooking with a strong seafood program and bar.
Who should go: Couples, celebrations, seafood lovers
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7 for easier reservations and bar seats
What to order: Octopus, lamb chops, saganaki
Insider tip: Bar seating is fastest on busy weekends and still gets the full menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street and nearby garage parking (Broadway or Locust) with moderate availability after 6pm; valet sometimes offered on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy; most guests wear elevated evening attire—collared shirts, dresses, or upscale denim.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; energetic dining room but you can still hold a conversation at smaller tables or the bar early evening.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats fill by 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; quieter midday crowd.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample mezze, salads, and pasta options clearly marked on menu.
Vegan options: Limited—grilled vegetables and a few mezze can be modified on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff accommodate and can adjust many dishes including seafood and meats.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic lighting, stylish setting, and polished service make it one of Walnut Creek’s best date-night picks. The bar is ideal for a more casual first meeting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible early on weeknights or at the bar, but weekend tables typically require advance booking due to popularity.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—more of an adult atmosphere focused on cocktails and social dining; older teens are fine for family celebrations.
Best For
Better for: Seafood and upscale Greek fare with lively ambiance—ideal for dates and celebrations compared to quieter Mediterranean spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking a casual gyro or takeout-style meal; this is more of a refined, dine-in experience.