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Greekman's
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Greekman's
8.2
Casual Greek taverna from the Freedman's team serves Aegean-inspired souvlaki and mezedes on a vine-covered parklet patio. Charcoal-grilled meats complement an all-Greek wine list in this neighborhood restaurant that transforms strip mall dining into island-style romance after dark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcoal Grilled Octopus, Lamb Chops with Tzatziki, Feta-Stuffed Phyllo
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: All-Greek wine list with charcoal-grilled Aegean specialties on vine-covered patio
Who should go: Wine enthusiasts seeking festive small plates atmosphere
When to visit: Dinner after dark when string lights illuminate the patio
What to order: Grilled octopus, lamb chops, oyster mushroom souvlaki
Insider tip: Small plates add up quickly—go for drinks and three bites
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive after 6pm, arrive early or use rideshare for dinner
Dress code: Elevated casual - sundresses and linen shirts fit the Mediterranean vibe better than athleisure
Noise level: Moderate outdoor ambiance - conversation-friendly with soft background music and natural wine bar energy
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation after 7pm, book ahead or arrive at opening
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually available, minimal wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong options including oyster mushroom souvlaki, mezedes spreads, grilled vegetables
Vegan options: Possible - several mezedes work (ask for modifications), but limited mains beyond mushroom skewers
Gluten-free options: Challenging - pita is central, but grilled meats and some mezedes accommodate with advance notice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - string-lit patio creates romantic atmosphere without feeling stuffy, shareable small plates encourage interaction, and moderate noise level allows actual conversation. Skip if you want somewhere quieter or more formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights yes, weekends risky. Bar seating is first-come and overlooks the action. If you're set on weekend dinner, book 3-5 days ahead or arrive right at 5:30pm opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime casual yes, evening date night vibe makes it better for older kids (10+). No kids menu but mezedes and grilled meats work. Outdoor seating helps with noise concerns but it's not a family-focused spot.
Best For
Better for: Charcoal-grilled authenticity and all-Greek wine program beat most LA Greek spots for quality-to-scene ratio. Choose this over generic Mediterranean when wine matters and you want festive small plates over full mains.
Skip if: You want quiet romance (try Osteria La Buca instead), need extensive vegan options, or prefer traditional taverna pricing - small plates approach runs $$$$ for full meal despite moderate individual prices.
Greekman's
8.2
Modern Greek taverna from the Freedman's team serving charcoal-grilled souvlaki and Aegean-inspired mezedes in a vine-covered setting. The intimate space blends speakeasy vibes with Greek kitsch, featuring an all-natural Greek wine list and small plates designed for sharing across their patio and cozy dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb & Beef Souvlaki, Grilled Octopus, Feta Phyllo Pocket
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: All-Greek wine program and charcoal-grilled preparations elevate traditional taverna dishes
Who should go: Date night couples and wine enthusiasts seeking modern Greek dining
When to visit: Dinner service, especially weeknights for easier seating without reservations
What to order: Souvlaki party platter, lamb chops with tzatziki, honey balls for dessert
Insider tip: The vine-covered patio offers the best atmosphere on warm evenings
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - relatively easy to find on Sunset Junction side streets after 7pm, but allow 5-10 minutes to circle. Meters free after 6pm.
Dress code: Elevated casual - think nice jeans with a button-down or flowy dress. The vine-covered patio has date night energy, so skip the gym wear.
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - the small space keeps it cozy without being loud. Perfect for actually hearing your date.
Weekend wait: 45-75 minutes without reservation after 7pm, especially Friday/Saturday. Bar seating sometimes available for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: Dinner-only concept - opens at 5pm daily
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - Greek cuisine translates well with mezze like spanakopita, grilled vegetables, and multiple dips. Easily build a full meal from small plates.
Vegan options: Possible but limited - hummus, vegetable skewers, and select mezze available. Call ahead to confirm dairy-free preparations on grilled items.
Gluten-free options: Challenging - many signature items involve pita and phyllo. Grilled meats and salads work, but cross-contamination likely on shared charcoal grill.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for first dates - the intimate patio setting and shareable small plates create natural conversation flow without being stuffy. The all-Greek wine list gives you something interesting to discuss, and the moderate noise level means you'll actually hear each other. Request patio seating when booking.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights before 7pm or after 9pm. Weekends are tougher - your best bet is arriving right at 5pm opening or snagging bar seats. The team from Freedman's runs a tight ship, so reservations strongly recommended Thursday-Saturday.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for 10+ year-olds who appreciate sit-down dining. The intimate space and sharing-style service doesn't lend itself to toddlers. No kids' menu, but the souvlaki and honey balls work for adventurous young eaters. Consider earlier seating (5-6pm) if bringing children.
How much should I budget per person? Plan $60-80 per person with wine. The small plates are designed for sharing - figure 3-4 plates for two people plus a bottle from their Greek wine list. The souvlaki party platter ($45-55) can anchor a meal for two with one additional mezze.
Is the patio heated for winter? Yes - vine-covered patio has heaters for cooler LA evenings. Still request it year-round as it's the signature setting. Interior dining room is cozy but significantly smaller with limited seating.
Best For
Better for: Choose Greekman's over Souvla or Antico for the curated all-Greek wine program and charcoal-grilled depth of flavor. The Freedman's team brings speakeasy-level attention to detail that elevates it beyond typical Greek tavernas. Better intimate date spot than larger Greek restaurants in the area.
Skip if: You need easy parking and quick service - the Silver Lake location and small space create logistical friction. If you want traditional Greek-American portions or a family-style feast, head to Papa Cristo's instead. Also skip if your date is vegan or needs extensive gluten-free options - the menu doesn't accommodate well.