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Greek From Greece
Master Critic Review
Greek From Greece
7.7
Greek From Greece (GFG Cafe Cuisine) feels like a casual Greek canteen a block from Penn Station, serving build-your-own bowls, pita gyros, and phyllo pies. Guests mix imported feta, halloumi, and Kalamata olives with fresh salads, then finish with baklava or thick Greek yogurt and a freddo coffee.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-Your-Own Pita Gyro, Spanakopita Spinach Pie, Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: A Greek fast-casual cafe near Penn Station built around Mediterranean bowls, gyros, and phyllo pastries.
Who should go: Commuters craving quick, affordable Greek before or after the train.
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull between lunch rush and evening commute.
What to order: Custom pita gyro, spanakopita, Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts.
Insider tip: If you’re catching a train, grab a warm spanakopita and freddo to go—they hold up well for the ride.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce around Penn Station; paid garages on 7th Ave and 8th Ave typically run $25–$45 for short stays.
Dress code: Completely casual—commuter-friendly attire, gym clothes, and everyday wear are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during peak commuter waves; generally easy to hold a normal conversation during off-peak hours.
Weekend wait: Minimal waits; traffic is lighter since it’s a commuter-oriented spot.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak train rush, especially at the build-your-own bowl line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—falafel, feta-forward salads, veggie bowls, and multiple phyllo pies.
Vegan options: Moderate—salads, grain bowls, and hummus-based combinations work, but some toppings (feta, yogurt sauces) need swapping.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free bowl bases and proteins are available, though phyllo pastries and pita wraps are not; no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for low-key and practical; it’s more of a fast-casual commuter stop than a lingering date environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations, and seating turnover is quick; expect to find a spot except during heavy Penn Station surges.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals with older kids; limited space and fast pacing make it less ideal for strollers or long family meals.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and lower prices than most nearby Mediterranean options, with solid commuter grab-and-go reliability.
Skip if: You want a quieter sit-down meal, broader mezze selection, or more polished Greek cooking—look to full-service tavernas instead.