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The Casual Greek
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Casual Greek
8.1
The Casual Greek is a chic, cozy Midtown East taverna serving fast lunch gyros and souvlaki alongside more composed Greek plates and a full bar at night. Strong recent reviews praise the warmly welcoming staff, well-seasoned grilled meats, and flexible format that works for quick counter meals, sit-down dinners, and happy hour. Pricing sits comfortably below the big-ticket seafood palaces nearby, making it an appealing neighborhood option for everyday Greek cravings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gyro Pita (Pork or Chicken), Loukaniko with Sauteed Spinach, Mixed Souvlaki Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A neighborhood Greek taverna balancing quick counter-service lunches with full-bar dinners and well-executed tavern classics.
Who should go: Office workers and locals wanting relaxed, modern Greek plates.
When to visit: Lunch for fast gyros; 4–7pm for happy hour and casual drinks.
What to order: Pork or chicken gyro pita, loukaniko, mixed souvlaki platter.
Insider tip: For best value, look for weekend or happy-hour prix fixe deals that bundle meze, mains, and a drink.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Turtle Bay, especially after 5pm; nearby garages along 2nd Ave typically run $18–$28 for evening stays.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — office attire, jeans, and sneakers are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner and happy hour; still easy enough for normal conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes for walk-ins; larger groups may wait longer due to the compact dining room.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; counter service moves quickly even at peak times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — Greek salads, spanakopita, grilled halloumi, and several meze options.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — expect 2–3 options such as hummus, select salads, and vegetable sides.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be prepared gluten-free, including grilled meats and some salads; pita-based dishes are not GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates — the cozy room, friendly staff, and approachable pricing create an easygoing atmosphere, though it leans more relaxed than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — walk-ins are common, especially for small parties. Arrive slightly before peak dinner hours if you want a table without waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with school-age children; the menu is approachable and service is flexible, though the space is compact and not ideal for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Everyday Greek meals with friendlier pricing, quick-service flexibility, and consistently seasoned grilled meats.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale seafood, whole grilled fish, or a more formal Greek dining experience — nearby high-end tavernas suit those occasions better.
The Casual Greek
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Business Lunch Power Players
A short walk from the UN, The Casual Greek serves gyros, souvlaki, salads and a few heartier plates in a bright, blue-and-white space that feels more like a neighborhood taverna than a Midtown cafeteria line. Generous portions and fair pricing keep it on rotation for nearby offices and residents.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork or chicken gyro platter, Lamb smash burger, Spanakopita
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Greek comfort fare in a relaxed, taverna-like room with notably large portions.
Who should go: UN-area workers and locals wanting hearty Greek without a splurge.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners before the after-work rush.
What to order: Gyro platter, lamb smash burger, spanakopita starter.
Insider tip: Split a platter and a starter—most plates are easily shareable for two lighter eaters.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near UN Plaza; metered spots open more frequently after 6pm, but expect circling during business hours. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; office attire and jeans both fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate — steady counter-service chatter but easy enough to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Generally minimal; 5–15 minutes for a table during peak early evening.
Weekday lunch: Short line during the noon rush; seating typically turns over quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good options — spanakopita, Greek salads, falafel plates, and several sides.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — salads without feta and certain vegetable sides; no dedicated vegan entrées.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free choices like salads and platters without pita, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure meetup than a romantic first date. The counter-service format and bright dining room are comfortable but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. At peak lunch you may wait a few minutes for a table, but turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with kids 6+; the menu is approachable and portions are large. No high chairs or dedicated kid’s menu, so very young children may find it less convenient.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions, straightforward Greek comfort dishes, and quick service at fair prices compared to pricier Midtown tavernas.
Skip if: You want a slow, atmospheric Greek dinner, seafood-heavy menus, or broader mezze selections — nearby full-service Greek restaurants will offer a more expansive experience.