Yefsi Estiatorio Reviews

4.2

1,476 of 13,361 Restaurants in New York City


Reviews

Eggplant Chips.... Mmmmmm

By smghr |

I love this place. It is great for an intimate or first date spot, or for a group dinner. Prices are fair, and the food is delicious. Try the fish specials.

Wonderful Greek flavors in an intimate environment at reasonable prices

By easystreets1 |

We arrived a bit early and sat at the bar to enjoy a glass of wine. The selection includes both the typical array of California, South American, and Australian wines and, based on the 2 reds we sampled, would assume that all are quite palatable. However, 2 seconds after ordering my red, I noticed a large jug behind the bar with fruit floating in it. Yep, you guessed it - to heck with the wine and tuck into some sangria. Smooth, with a fruity flavor, 2 glasses of this went down quite easily and I would strongly recommend giving it a try. As for the meal, well, it's serious food with well balanced and thought out flavors. We enjoyed the pikilia and found the tzatziki and spicy feta exceptional. The taste not to be missed from the appetizer menu was the garides saganaki - shrimp with a tomato sauce and melted feta that just melted into a taste of heaven. Should have licked the bowl (OK, I did when my wife wasn't looking). The mains were quite good as well. I tucked into a healthy serving of mousaka and will feel full until sometime late tomorrow. The beschmel was applied with the skill needed to keep the dish from getting soppy and bland and balanced well with artfully seasoned ground beef. My wife had a lamb kabob which was served perfectly cooked - fantastic char yet still tender. I wish I could tell you about the baklava, but being a bit full, we got it to go and, like the idiot I am, I left it on the table. As for the atmosphere, we were greeted like family. It was quite obvious that this restaurant is frequented by a discerning set of regulars who were on a first name basis with everyone from the hostess to the bar tender. No tacky Greek restaurant here - flaming shots of ouzo, breaking plates, and dancing aren't part of this scene. Rather an adult candlelit atmosphere with Greek music playing softly in the background. Our only complaint was that it could get a bit noisy at times, but the house was full and everyone was in obvious good spirits. Overall, a great time and we'll repeat. We escaped with a bill of $145 plus tip, but had 2 drinks each, 2 appetizers, a salad, mains, and dessert.

Gourmet Greek on the Upper East Side

By Stanley F |

Authentic Greek cuisine in a bistro-like setting. It was a Friday night, the place was full, and the atmosphere was "up". My N.Y. companions are 'regulars' there, and rave about the food. I took a chance and started with the Garides Pastourma, a kind of stir-fry stew of shrimp, onions, garlic, cherry tomatoes and cured beef. It was OK, and filling; just not fantastic or memorable. For the main course I played conservatively, and went for the Brizola, a large (16oz.) Black Angus rib-eye steak, and fries. OK, I confess it wasn't the most 'Greek' of choices, but when it arrived it really was wonderful. Overflowing the plate, and cooked to perfection. All was forgiven ! Reservations recommended.

just checking it out

By Renee M |

Excellent, well prepared food,Extensive but expensive menu. Service was not on par with other similar restaurants in the area. Slow bar service and an attitude from the server. The acoustics are awful, even for a NYC high energy restaurant. Lovely back room.

Perfect for a group or on a date!

By Desiree Fish |

This is a great Upper East Side greek restaurant with great food and a wonderful vibe. Yefsi has great energy and is great for a date night or with a group of friends or family. Their menu is made for sharing. Lots of wonderful mezedes to start all around $15 from shrimp, optopus, sausages, gigande beans, dips, etc, you could just order that for the table! but then you would miss out on the really good fish or lamb dishes.

Neighborhood Stylish Greek Restaurant

By Marc A |

Enjoyed a quiet weekday lunch. After ordering we were offered a tray with several slices of hearty bread, freshly made hummus, and olive spread. The spanikopita appetizer was beautifully prepared and fresh. The filo was light and flaky, and the filling was an ample amount of spinach. It was served on a bed of yogurt. For the main we both had chicken souvlaki sandwiches, served with salad and Greek fries in a pita wrap. The blend of flavors was very satisfying, with nothing being overwhelming. Dessert was a large serving of galatoboureko. The pastry and custard were wonderfully sweet, the perfect complement to tea or coffee.

Great Greek food!

By Sophia L |

I love this quaint neighborhood restaurant. Being Greek, I know Greek food...and this is as good and authentic as it gets. I have yet to have a disappointing dish here. You could easily make a meal of a Greek village (Horiatiki) salad a selection the generous and delicious appetizers such as the perfectly fired calamari, eggplant and zucchini chips, grilled country sausages, or many seafood choices. The entrees warrant returning multiple times to try them all. The Moussaka, Paidakia,....honestly, everything is excellent. But leave room for the Galaktoboureko or Yogurt. Unbelievable.

Delicious food, great ambiance

By Marissa |

Service was on point, and the food was high quality. Definitely would recommend for a date night or nice night out with friends/family!

Delicious Greek food

By rednissan |

Excellent! Recommend sitting in back room if available if you want quieter space--we did! Everything we ate was delicious. Ample portions, reasonably priced. Service very good.

No Sir to Yefsi!

By Harradexperience |

The food at Yefsi can be absolutely wonderful and the wait staff attentive, but the attitude and arrogance of the owner/ host made for one of the most horrible dining experiences ever. Called in a reservation a week in advance and requested a table near the wall or out on the patio stating that one of our party of three is hard of hearing. We were initially met with apologies that nothing was available when we arrived (on time) and the wait could be very long. When given the worst table possible, near the kitchen, in the middle of the room and under speakers that piped in incredibly loud music, we were assured that this would be temporary until some other table opened up. It became obvious that this was a blatant excuse to put us where it was best for the restaurant and not us when tables cleared and we were not suitable to move. Our host condescendingly explained that a specific table was for 5, 4 sat down, tables reserved for 2, which could have been pushed together for the 3 of us near the wall, remained empty. Now my husband and guest remained calm and polite, but I was seething. The incredible noise and impossible location made for a miserable meal. As regular diners who spend a lot of money eating out and enjoy supporting our local establishments, including Yefsi, this was deplorable. Even the complimentary desert did not make up for such a belittling and embarrassing experience. Not only will I cross Yefsi off my list, but I highly recommend others frequent any number of lovely restaurants in the neighborhood where the food is just as good if not better and the owners and staff know how to make their guests feel special.

Fine but not fantastic

By 3girlsBethesda |

We went to Yefsi after reading good reviews on Yelp and Trip Advisor, but we were a little disappointed. The service was very nice and the ambiance was pleasant. It was a week night, so while the restaurant was busy, it was not overcrowded or too loud. I thought the food was just good - not great. We had been in Greece 4 months earlier, and we were hoping for some delicious Greek food. It was a little disappointing. The octopus was the best of the things we ordered.

Wish I could give ten stars!

By A_Miracle_Day |

Excellent. Just excellent. From the moment we walked in the whole experience was exquisite. The hostess seated us with a friendly and warm smile. We even got to choose our preferred location. Our server was attentive without being overbearing. The manager visited to check in on us and the bussers were on it! We were never out of water or without a fork. The whole placed seemed to work as a team. A napkin fell and someone handed my husband a new one before we even knew it was missing. Now, onto the food. Oh. My. God. I got the fried cheese (not even going to try to spell it, sorry). It was AMAZING. So flavorful and perfectly cooked. My husband got the grilled baby octopus, I don't eat seafood, so he was pretty excited to have it. He was SO happy with the choice. (recommended by our waitress Ozge) I tried a piece, and keeping in mind I don't like seafood... I ended up eating half the plate. It was THAT good. Amazing. Main courses. Moussaka. OMG. An amazing blend of savory with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect portions. I wish I could still be eating it. My husband had a seafood dish that he raved about as well. Dessert was amazing. Baklava and another dish I wish I could recall the name of. Ozge had us try it and I ate every morsel. Overall, the experience was a memorable one. We're absolutely going to make this our go-to date special even night. Yes, the prices are high, but worth it. If you like or want to try Greek food, and want a lovely evening out, go here. You won't regret it.

One of the best Greek restaurants in nyc

By Kisses47NYC |

Yefsi (which means taste) has really really good Greek food. Good service and atmosphere. Try the shrimp in beans appetizer, the grilled fishes and the desserts. Plus the Greek wines are great.

Easy tasty lunch- pita & halloumi & pork, salad fries-14. And a cloth napkin. For dinner we like the lamb

By helene-ny |

For dinner try the lamb w cinnamon especially on a cold day.they willlet you try the wines, i do not like Greek wines but New Zealand sauvignon , etc. available. Very good service.

Mixed Feelings

By Harvey M |

I have eaten here twice. I LIKED these dishes at the restaurant: Meatballs in a lemon sauce appetizer (a special of the day). Meat Patties (called Bifteki), which is an entree. Lamb Shank with noodles. I DID NOT LIKE: Zucchini and Eggplant Fried Chips (not much flavor). The fact that I called to make a reservation for one and I was told that they don't seat ones at a table, I am welcome to a seat at the bar (first come first served).

Average sums it about up

By Jack K |

Our friends ordered a table for us to meet in their neighborhood and they frequent the place so I expected an above average eating venture. But I was disappointed. Albeit the baby lamb rack my wife did chose was very good, my bisteki was below average. The meat was OK, but the fries were soft and soggy with oil. The waiter was Greek, but being in NYC showed. Fast and a bit furious, not easy going as waiters are in Greece. Having been in Greece just two weeks ago the different attitude was very noticeable. I ordered for dessert Greek coffee and Greek yogurt. I still have to wait for the coffee and the yogurt turned out to be some kind of sour white cheese, a far cry from delicious Greek yogurt.... The bill was too high for the kind of food and service received. I would look for another place in the neighborhood next time!

Disappointed!

By Summer D |

Had dinner at the new Yefsi restsrunt in Eastchester and was so disappointed. Our waitress was delightful but the maitre'd/manager has no personality what so ever. I don't see this place lasting here. The food is extremely overpriced.we paid $30 for the Thalasino which is orzo and seafood. Well there was no seafood in my dish, just a few mussels and three shrimp. There were no scallops which is what the menu stated. It was a total rip off. Will never go back and don't see it lasting long. We left and the manager didn't even ask us about our meal. Being that its a new restaraunt it would make sense to ask your patrons what they think. The decor is also boring and stuffy.

If a Greek recommends this place, you know it's good!

By Athanasia L |

Being of Greek heritage, I've been to just about every Greek restaurant in NYC, including Astoria! Of all the places that I have been, I have found this restaurant to be the best in the city when it comes to quality, price and ambience. Sure, there are other excellent Greek restaurants in NYC, but none compare to the value you get here. The restaurant itself is beautiful. A contemporary flare, while not the typical blue/white stucco of many places, Yefsi has a style all its own.There is even a garden in the rear for al fresco dining. Any fish dish is delicious. My personal favorite is the Tsipura. You've never had Porgy like this! For lamb lovers, rather than go for the typical kabob, try the Lamb Shank. You will love it! Combine all this with a Greek Salad and you'll be saying "OPA" in no time!

A bit of the Mediterranean in Manhattan

By aliceann1 |

The crowded restaurant on the upper east side in Manhattan was a good sign of what was to come as we sat down with friends for dinner. In spite of the crowds, wait staff was attentive to all our needs and came by regularly to fill water/wine glasses. Food was delicious. Fish tasted like it was right off the boat, salads were fresh, Greek cheeses and specialty appetizers quite good. Breads and house dip were a nice accompaniment.

Erogant staff & medicar food

By dgal71 |

Manager- erogant and liar! Reservation not kept, and lied about availability of tables. Waitress pushi and erogant. Food below avaerage! The apetizer portions are very small, and not tasty. The price of $150 per couple is highly exagerated. Stay away!!!!

Authentic Mediterranean Food on the UES

By Alyssa Z |

Yefsi is an Upper East Side treasure. I have been here more than a half-a-dozen time. The food is consistently delicious and they have a nice selection of Mediterranean wines. The platter of Greek spreads is a must- the spicy feta dip that comes with it is outrageously good. I get that every time I come along with the grilled octopus and the Greek Lima beans. Everyone I have brought here has become hooked and either returns with me or on their own. If you are just a group of two, I suggest sitting at the bar. The bartenders are usually attentive and chatty. This place is packed even on a Tuesday night in the middle of the summer so I suggest making a reservation on OpenTable.

Amazing Restaurant

By BostnChicago |

We eat at this restaurant each time we are in Manhattan. The service is always professional and well paced. The food is exquisite. The entrees tend to be on the large side and when we visit in groups we usually just split many of their delicious appetizers. Perfect for groups, romantic dates or after work drinks !

A pleasant Sunday brunch

By John Z |

This second visit was better than the initial one some months ago. The wait staff was more attentive and the food delicious. While there is a sign announcing the gratis Bloody Mary or Mimosa with brunch (and a footnote on the menu) no one on the staff will ask you if you would like one of these pleasantries after taking your order. Had an Omeletta Me Tyria (omelet with fries), Soutzoukakia Brunch (Greek Meatballs over rice) and Pasta Me Elies along with that great bread they serve (wish I could take a loaf home). This is becoming our go-to place in exchange for the Turkish restaurant in West Haven. You have to expect the prices are higher than anywhere you live outside of NYC, but the food was wonderful and the service much improved. A very good place for a Sunday brunch! We'll be back.

Very good neighborhood spot for Greek food

By Unbongout |

Good service, friendly staff, reasonable wine list, reasonable prices, and best of all well executed Greek standards. This restaurant is one of the benefits of living in the neighborhood. The fried calamari was one of the best I have had in the area!

Delicious Greek but they disrespect you when it comes to reservations

By lynnita30 |

This restaurant has no respect for reservation preferences and will disregard you in favor of landing a random walk- in request. Called for reservations and told we could only reserve at the bar. Upon entering, a walk-in couple before us said they had no reservations, and yet they were given a table blatantly in front of our faces. After complaining to the hostess, no explanation or apology was made. Come here if you are willing to tolerate being dissed as you eat delicious food, but what a shame they couldn't care less about you as long as you order and pay your bill.

FABULOUS

By HillaryNewYork |

Have been going to Yefsi since it opened!! Great fresh fish, the best in the city! Wonderful meza,s and salads. There is not anything that is NOT GREAT!! BEST BAR TENDER, DONNA!!!

Night out with friend...

By 60763Karen |

Tonight was my second time in this restaurant. Food was good but service was terrible. The waitress was very annoying..kept coming to table every 3 minutes and was very loud. Would not be going back and would not recommend...

Excellent food and service

By SamG |

My wife and I love Greek food and been to several. This ranks right on top. The server was from the island of Rhodes and we shared some good memories of our trip there. The regional wine she served us was very good. I must rave about the Lavraki, it was moist and grilled just right with lemon and olive oil, and slightly crispy on the outside. My wife had the lamb shank and she loved it. The portions were generous. If you’re into salads, please try their house Greek salad. It was definitely good.

EXCELLENT GREEK RESTAURANT

By HADJICOSTAS |

Its one of the best restaurant with fresh good food and excellent service .Try the started the are amazing ..special the octopus !I hope to be there soon !!

Glad to have a great dining choice in the neighborhood

By john b |

Always crowded, always loud. Excellent food. Glad to have Yefsi in the neighborhood. We have been there at least 6 times this year.

Authentic Greek on Upper East Side

By Mark C |

Dinner was solid. Octopus was sold out which was a bummer. We shared Taramosalata that was great with perfect amount of salt and sweetness, and sausages with black eye peas. Both the Bronzino and Swordfish were good; comparatively the Swordfish was slightly better. Green beans were tasty. Wine list by glass was average, better beer selection. Emily provided super service. It does tend to be loud.

Great Food & Seevice

By strandpark123 |

Have visited yefsi several times and absolutely love the food and the service. Highly recommend this restaurant for delicious Greek food and unpretentious service. Can’t wait to go back. The hostess Christine is first class and truly welcomes you back each and every time. Cheers!

Great food, service and atmosphere

By ro o |

Can't believe the number of times I walked past this place and never tried it. Great little find. The place was packed on a tuesday night which was a good sign. the staff were very attentive and found us a table even though we hadn't booked. The food was good with a good choice. Just wish I'd had the chicken with giant roast potatoes I kept eying up on the table next to us. Will definitely be trying that dish next time and recommend this place. I also liked the fact that it had a busy bar scene and people drinking cocktails and having small bites. Great for just a drink too.

Our Favorite Greek Restaurant when in Manhattan

By ntamborra |

This is by far our favorite Greek restaurant, my wife and I go there at least 1-2 times each month, which means we travel at least 2 hours each way, but its worth it each and every time. This is by far our favorite place

THE BEST!!

By HillaryNewYork |

We have been coming to this restaurant since it opened at least once a week! Christos the chef, owner is TOP NOTCH. He was invited to the White House to make dinner for an affair the President was hosting! The food is always fresh and Deliocious. The drinks are terrific and Thomas one of his matri de's the the BEST!

waste

By ezeyofi |

What a disappointing experience! First, this place is incredibly overpriced for what it is -- I grew up in NY and have lived around the world and I've experienced amazing meals at both pricey and inexpensive restaurants, but this one just did not match up - the pricing and the quality of food. I ordered 3 fairly simple dishes - - A Greek Salad ($15) - when I saw the price and gasped, I thought well, maybe it's a meal size portion, but no - a small appetizer portion which large chunks of cucumber/tomato/onion/feta - outrageous. - zucchini fritters ($9) - fine pricing for an appetizer and they were good - nothing exceptional, just 3 zucchini patties, but how can this be $9 and a salad $15 - still scratching my head on that. - beef burgers ($19) - fine price for a main dish, but the meat was so dry that we couldn't eat it, best thing on the plate were the fries. The waiter (who was very kind and friendly) noticed we weren't satisfied with the burgers, and then continued to explain that other customers were dissatisfied too because they felt they were bland, and his final comment to that was sorry, hopefully when you come in next time they'll be better - what?? who says that in a fine dining restaurant - where is the customer service. up your game..just sayin.

Best Grilled Octopus I have ever eaten!

By Terri S |

My train was late coming into NYC so we were late for our reservation. However, our waiter was so understanding and our table was saved! The grilled octopus was divine-frankly the best I have ever tasted- with a glass of Greek white wine that the waiter let us sample before buying. We had zucchini chips which were yummy with the yogurt sauce, but needed salt. The bass was sumptuous. All in all, a wonderful experience.

Great greek food

By Alain L |

Would classified it as a great neighborhood greek joint. I will probably not drive from jersey city specifically to eat there, but when I visit my friends in the area, I will certainly go back. As I say often, with so many choices around, you really have one chance to impress the customer. And they did. The Saganaki was perfect, as good as greek town in chicago. The grilled octopus was excellent, compare to any great restaurant. Greek salad was classic with a delicious feta. My lamb shank was just ok, but my wife roasted baby lamb was excelent. We topped it with a baklava dessert for a great meal. Place was packed at 8 pm and very lively. Service was good. Will Go back

If there is one dish to get..

By tsangw |

Get the octopus! Some of the best I've ever had - Yefsi is definitely a hidden gem on the Upper East Side.

Excellent Food and Service

By newyorkie12 |

Fresh & delicious mediterranean cuisine. Service was also excellent - helpful and attentive, and made many good food and wine suggestions. Appetizers were wonderful and many to choose from. Overall, a perfect experience both with food and service. Lively atmosphere and best greek food in NYC.

Great food and service

By Autumn M |

We went here for lunch on a Saturday. The service was great and fast. The food was good. The pita was homemade and delicious .

A Gem on the Upper East Side

By universitygal |

Being of Greek heritage we have eaten in a number of Greek restaurants over the years. Yefsi is by far the best. What a find! Food is meticulously prepared and presented. The chef is a master at his trade. Thomas, the maitre'd is friendly and at your service. Look no further if fantastic Greek cuisine is what you are looking for!

Very good Greek restaurant

By robcurtross |

Very clean and attractive dining room with a long bar on one side and many tables on the other. Very clean men's room. Very focused Greek food list with very little "Mediterranean" cuisine. Interesting white and red wine list of about 60 different wines including a nice range of Geeek wines. Excellent bread served with a very good garlic dip. Pita sandwich served with variety of roasted vegetables, perfectly cooked. Very good french fries and an excellent yogurt dressing on the side. Worth returning for dinner.

Wow!

By sprb |

We met family while visiting here and they said the place was good. We had to sit outside on the patio as the restaurant was fully booked but we wwere not disappointed. The food was amazing and very tasty! We ordered entrees to share and it became one of the restaurants that really stuck out while visiting nyc! Would definitely reccommend and go back. Excellent food and excellent service. The waitress was friendly even though we had two small children and an infant. The chef came out to ask how everything was.

authentic Greek on York

By Harv421 |

Yes is authentic greek food on the upper east side of Manhattan. Fish and lamb are fresh and well prepared. Appetizers vary fromvegtable chips to octopus and wonderful shrimp and cheese specialities. Everything is exceptionally fresh and well prepared. Service from mainly Greek staff is knowledgable, but sometimes takes a while. do not hesitate to ask for service staff to recommend.

Nice Greek food

By Susan2350 |

The Greek salad appetizer was very good, but not huge (the feta cheese was excellent but the salad had a little too much green peppers for me). We also ordered the Yefsi (fried zucchini and eggplant) chips which were also good and plentiful (too much for 2 people) but "more-ish" and we ended up finishing them all! Fortunately, we hadn't yet ordered our entrees, so we just ordered another appetizer, the shrimp and cod croquettes, which was just okay. A lot of people seem to partake of the bar area.

Excellent Greek Food!

By Luv2Travel0622 |

I've been to this restaurant a few times and each time had an excellent meal. The food is very good, authentic greek food with a lot to choose from. The service is also very good, the wait staff is very attentive. It does get quite busy, so best to make a reservation. I had seafood and my friends had the steak, both were excellent! It was my birthday and the waiter provided a few sweets for dessert. Very good!

EXCELLENT Greek Restaurant

By Robin W |

What a wonderful meal! Firstly I must say that it is a pretty little restaurant on the upper east side that has truly amazing service and care is taken to every detail. The staff is happy to serve you in any way possible and the follow up on how you are doing by managers, etc. is exceptional! My husband and I went with another couple and enjoyed their zucchini and eggplant chips as well as their fried calamari....both were excellent and very large portions. My main was the Grilled Salmon and I asked for it to be served with their spinach and rice mix. This was probably the best Salmon dish I have ever had...delicate and light and just yummy! For desert we all just shared a wonderful custard cake with yogurt and walnuts. A bit with coffee was perfect...this is an amazing restaurant and you will just love the whole experience!

A bit below average

By robcurtross |

My wife and I were looking forward to those bustling Greek restaurant, and did find a beautiful space and very attentive and friendly service. Cleanliness also appeared very good. I did enjoy my lamb shank which was cooked very well but served with heavy tomato sauce That overwhelmed with the delicacy of the lamb and with much too much pasta. My wife’s moussaka was a total disaster with a very heavy potato crust, very little cheese and almost no meat. The egg plant was cut very thick as well. People seem to have a very good time, but we will not be back.

Our visit to. Yelfsi from England

By Helen S |

We came to New York for a 4 day holiday and to see all the great and amazing sites New York has to offer .....we decided we wand t visit a Greek restaurant,we went on the web and yelfsi looked ideal,as they catered for my severely disabled little girls needs who is in a wheelchair......as soon as we walked in we were greeted by the amazing staff, thy were eager to help find us A suitable table ....we were spoilt for choice with the menu, the squid was To die for ,I had the chicken souvlakia which was absolutely delicious, my little girl had the mousaka ...I would recommend this place highly ,the staff were tremendous , very helpful and greeted us with a smile, they explained to us all the dishes in great detail ....we shall definitely come again .we truly feel that home ,..thanks to mike too who maria got pretty attached to, a truly amazing gentleman .

Family Dinner

By Demetri P |

Beautiful restaurant on the East side of NYCity up on 78th street. The interior was clean and decor well done. Waitstaff was friendly and on top of things. The food was very authentic and delicious!!! We all enjoyed a great dinner

Fantastic Greek food on UES

By Jimmy-the-G-man |

Yefsi's food is on par with Milos in my opinion. Atmosphere is more casual but the service is great and the prices are better! Go with the writer's wine selection and you won't be disappointed!

OK for Greek cuisine but overpriced for what you get

By Gustave D |

I lived just across the street from this place when they first opened up. I have gone several times because it's in the neighborhood. However, the food is below standard for Greek and very overpriced. The service is average and, they do listen to complaints but do nothing to improve.

Top quality greek food

By alkimadrid |

We dined once at this restaurant and really liked it. We order many appetizers that were all really tasty. Especially the fried aubergines are amazing! We were so full that we decided to share fish and salad as a main dish. The fish was baked perfectly and we wished we had more. We chose a white greek wine, that was really good and accompanied the food very well. All in all, we will return.

Come and visit Greece

By VEM59 |

Visiting New York from Australia and decided to try Greek tonight, well in all honesty by far one of the best Greek restaurants we have ever dined. Down to the basics, simple Greek food with know contemporary modern twists. Lamb Yiouvetsi, Lamb Souvlaki, Greek Salad, Oven baked Fetta, Beetroot with Skordalia and keep the Mastiha coming on the rocks and your in for a good night. We have been eating at some very good restaurants recommended on Tripadvisor but so far only 2 that we will return to, one is Basta Pasta and the other Yefsi. Thank you for a good feed Yefsi, until next time.

Stick with the mezze; some of the mains are ugh!

By robcurtross |

We ate at Yefsi Estiatonigrio on York last night, and really enjoyed the pretty venue, the outstanding and friendly service, and the happy diners. Cleanliness was very good, including the men's room. The mezze was excellent; I particularly liked the spicy feta and the hummus had a wonderful taste and aroma of garlic. The pita was good, albeit some pieces were a little bit burned, and the Greek lager was served very cold and was delicious. But the mousaka -- oh, my goodness -- what a mess. It was served "on its side" -- a stack of green beans to the right, then a stack of eggplant, then a stack of overdone burger meat, and finally a stack of mashed potatoes on the left. The sauce was applied willy nilly to some but not all of the dish. Everything was overcooked, and there was almost no flavor. Stick to the mezze and beer.

Average Greek/Nothing Special

By Maxz007 |

We went to Yefsi based on the Zagat's rating of 24; however, it is nowhere near. Patchy service, average food, and very loud. It is ok to skip this place; there are many better alternatives.

Very nice food and excellent service

By squalo7 |

A real surprise, amazing food, beautiful taste, good price and excellent service.. it seems that they listened the other reviewers... suggested!

Authentic Greek by an authentic Greek

By Kisses47NYC |

I pride myself on recognizing Greek food given that I was raised on it and cook it at home. So for me to go out to Greek it had to be phenomenal. Teddies is phenomenal. All the food I’ve ever had here had been great. Try the shrimp-bean-feta app, the lamb shank and the octopus.

This is the best Greek restaurant in NYC

By Matt F |

... and maybe one of the best Greek restaurants in the world (having spent a few months living in Greece). You will not believe the food here.

Such terrific Greek Food

By Mo W |

We love sitting at the bar and ordering appetizers. One is better than the next. And if you still have room for dinner, do not pass up the grilled branzino. The fish is fresh and perfectly cooked. The wait staff at the bar is exceedingly friendly and you will instantly feel like you are known because you have been her multiple times. Every dish is perfectly prepared.

Nice Upper Eastside Addition

By Brooke E |

My girlfriends and I recently ate dinner at this Upper Eastside establishment for one of the group's birthdays, and we loved it! The food was delicious; we especially enjoyed the baklava for dessert with a candle, of course. We also liked how fresh the food was. We had the meze trio to start and to share and then we all got our own fresh fish with sides. The service and atmosphere were nice, too. We got served quickly but didn't feel rushed. The homey, yet hip, environment was perfect for a girls night out or just dinner with friends. We have been here before, and it consistently receives high marks. We will be sure to return again soon.

Ridiculously loud and crowded

By RiddleySkyWalker |

An excellent review of Yefsi got us in the door, but at 9pm on a Saturday night the earsplitting noise level and cheek by jowl seating made for one of the most unpleasant dining experiences of the year. A pity, because the service and food were both good. But, I dare you to hear your companions, or not feel that the bar scene is going to fall onto your table. We thought the back room might be quieter, but people are so crammed in that it feels like you're in a sardine can - which would actually be quieter and more comfortable.

Nothing to write home about

By F.L |

Interesting menu but monochrome dishes missing seasoning, fish overcooked, stale bread, below average service, and overpriced, considering other Greek restaurants. The garden in the back is very nice, skip the terrace in front.

Great local place; good food and service.

By annbury |

My wife and I hit this place after the Marathon, which completely messed up our day. The service was quite good and a young waitress told my wife that her two fish apps and a salad were enough and they were. The grilled octopus is terrific, as are the scallops in an appetizer. My wife had an arugula salad and I had the horiatiki, overpriced at $14 but very good. My main was a beefsteak chopped and cooked with onion, breadcrumbs and cumin. It was a perfect medium rare, which means pink but not raw. For dessert we split a baklava, which was excellent.

Good Greek. Nice neighborhood setting.

By Kafpro |

The food was authentic. Good. Fresh. The room is very nice. It's tucked away in a residential neighborhood on the Upper East Side. It's popular with locals, but they are very welcoming. It's worth finding when you desire a real Greek meal.

So Fabulous

By Ken C |

I've known Yefsi and chef/owner Chris for many years...it has been one of my NYC favorites since it opened. I don't miss living in New York but I do miss eating at Yefsi...whenever I have to be in the city, I comfort myself with Chris' amazing plates!

Yefsi: Maybe or Maybe Not

By theelephantman |

We had dinner here on a Wednesday night at 8:45 PM. It wasn't crowded and tables were available but when I asked to be seated before the rest of my party showed up, I was told to have a seat by the bar. That was the general tone of the service we received for the rest of the night. The waiter did what was required and little more. The food was OK. My salmon dish over risotto was alright but it seemed something was missing from the plate beside the smallish size serving. My daughter ordered the chicken kabob and she and I both found it dry and not particularly memorable. Prices were a bit steep for this type of restaurant at this location. Maybe I got them on a bad day, but on this visit I was disappointed.

Will satisfy your craving for good greek food!

By 1cw |

We were very happy with our recent visit to Yefsi! There were 6 of us in our party and the overall consensus was very positive. In particular, I would recommend the grilled veg appetizer, as well as the various dips with pita - I would skip the greek salad. For a main course, the lamp skewers and rice were scrumptious, also had good reports on the grilled chicken and grilled octopus. The group didn't have room for dessert, so I will have to wait until my return visit to sample their desserts!

Awesome Saturday night dinner!

By nycfamily27 |

Wants to try something new in the neighborhood and found this on OpenTable. What took me so long to find the place?!?! Great food, great looking restaurant, excellent service. Greek food that was fresh, tasty and interesting. Loved this place!

Food and service 11/10

By Nicola A |

We traveled from lower Manhattan to visit after a recommendation from a friend. Totally worth it. Service was amazing. Staff very attentive. Our server Nikki was so friendly. Food was beautiful. I can’t recommend this place enough.

Best Greek on Upper East Side

By Edward L |

The selection of food is excellent. Almost always the whole fish is wonderful and so is the octopus. On occasion, both are too well done. A shrimp special and a pork special are terrific,, but expensive, so ask for the price first. Their grilled vegetables and shrimp with feta are delicious as is the roast chicken. I love to order pita bread as a supplement. The place is extremely noisy, so it is better to go with no more than four people. Make reservation to ensure you get a table as even the bar area fills up. Depending on your waiter, the service is terrific or just fair. Dinner with two appetizers, two mains, dessert, and a bottle of wine will cost you around $135 - $160 depending on what you order.

Good Greek food

By BronxWanderer |

Went here for the first time with another couple who are regulars. The hostess, owner and server were very welcoming towards them and also welcomed us with a friendly greeting. The service was excellent all around. Even the busses were on top of everything and our water glasses were never empty. The wine list was good but the cheapest glass was $16 and a bottle I believe was $50. The Greek salad was excellent although not overly large for the $18 charged. Everything we ordered from the lamb chops to lamb shank was delicious and served hot. We sampled several different deserts which were all devoured quickly. Loved the baklava. We sat in the room in the rear of the restaurant so, although noisy, was not as bad as sitting in the front near the bar. The restaurant is not inexpensive and the portions were not overly large but I would go back when I am in the neighborhood.

What a marvelous find in my own neighborhood

By richardallan2016 |

We have recently moved into a new apartment in a somewhat new neighborhood and needed an early dinner. At 5:30 this lovely restaurant was just beginning to fill up when we were handed a menu at least 15 inches long with the left side devoted entirely to small plates and the right column main courses. We ended up with six small plates for the two of us--too much. BUT oh so very delicious. The service is warm and observant to the pace of your eating. There is a full bar with both Greek and domestic wines.

The best in NYC

By Tuany M |

I had an amazing time at Yefsi Estiatorio. The restaurant is so well located. The food is just amazing and surely the best greek food I ever tried (including in Greece). Everything was so delicious and tasteful. I recommend the fried cheese and the fish. For deserts, the real greek yogurt is remarkable. The staff are very friendly and regardful. I wish I could return more often, but I will definitely come back as soon as I come to Nyc again.

Not worth the trip or $213 - no alcohol.

By Cheesy |

Cold service for overpriced mediocre Greek food. "Greek" salad was pathetic. Grilled fish was minnow-scule. We went to upscale really good Greek restaurant the next night for the same cost.

Ena megalo elliniko estiatorio

By Ross R |

I am not Grekk but I love Greek food and have gone to Greece several times. This is one of the best Greek neighborhood restaurants I have found. The staff is all Greek asnd they don'y mind me practicing my Greek with them. The food is wonderful and the service amazing. I highy recommend this restaurant

Good Food But LOUD!

By Getitright212 |

A genuine Greek treat on the east side and worth a trip over to York Ave. Food is proper which is my "high praise". It's fish especially as you'd want it but other very good choices too. The biggest distraction is NOISE. Why restaurants as good as this don't dampen it somewhat is hard to understand. Buzz is fine; jackhammer noisy isn't. If you like Greek food, you'll like this

shhhh, don't tell anyone about this fab restaurant

By Marlene |

Food is excellent Greek, Large portions, moderate prices. lovely garden room in the back. Problem: It is amall you must have a resesrvation and you have to book far in advance. Share an assosrtment of appetisers, even share entrees. Portions are big. York Avenue is far east, But not to worry, if you go, stop in first at Sothebys, a few blocks south on York. Even if you can't bid for something in the 7 figures, . It's the best free art museum in town.

Very good Greek food on the UES

By Paul C |

Yefsi is surely the best Greek restaurant on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. They specialize in seafood and the fish is very fresh and expertly prepared. The main inside dining room is warm and the wait staff is knowledgeable and attentive. There is a small garden space in the back but it is actually enclosed. Overall, I think the main dining room is the better place to sit. Since there are so few Greek restaurants in this part of town, it can be hard to get a reservation on short notice. But once you are seated, it's a great experience. We'll be back.

Brilliant Food..Unfriendly Service

By debralynn108 |

I was amused when my experience perfectly matched the other reviews I had read. When we entered the restaurant there were many 4 tops available but we were told they had to save them for bigger parties....(we were 3). which never manifested.... I want to clarify that the wait staff was marvelous...it was the hostess and the manager who were rude, but ultimately gave my brother his card and said he should call him before he comes next time (we DID have a reservation.. On to the food... Utterly divine. Both fishes, all the veggies (although the string beans are a tad too tomatoie for my taste.... Octopus appetizer the best I have tasted, grilled veggies very tasty... LOVE the hummus they serve with bread. Reasonable prices, unexciting crowd, but it is tucked away on York so many are not trudging from the west side as I did

Finally, a Greek restaurant in Manhattan whose food Brits would count as Greek

By Tubulosity |

We went for lunch on a Sunday on the spur of the moment, after finding two other brunch venues that we like to go to unexpectedly full. The restaurant was quiet and not crowded. (I see other reviewers have found it noisy in the evenings.) Everything about the experience was what I've been looking for (in terms of a Greek restaurant in Manhattan) for the last thirty years! The taramasalata tasted great and had the right texture, as it would be prepared in a Greek restaurant in London, Paris, or Athens. (In general, Greek restaurants in New York just don't get taramasalata. They mainly use a disgusting recipe that Greek cooks brought to New York in the 1920s and which has the texture of a incompletely-blended mousse, with no perceptible taste of garlic or olive.) The other appetizers were excellent also. For a main course I had lamb chops, which were out of this world. And the retsina I had with my meal was a good-quality one that actually tasted as retsina should -- another rare thing around these parts. The service was efficient and friendly and, for the quality of the food, the price was very fair. We're certainly going back soon.

third time there

By ahoughton |

really excellent greek food. have been with the same group of 7 three times over 3 years and the food is still excellent. staff v friendly. great choice. only downside its that is quite loud so if you're interested in an intimate evening of deep conversation, might not be the ideal place. but the food is worth the trip.

Could Not Have Been Any Better!

By Richard J |

The good feeling about Yefsi began the moment we walked in except for the noise level in the main dining room. We were fortunate to be seated in the beautiful and cozy back room which was so much quieter...and prettier. Our server, Ria, was exceptional. Thoughtful, warm and friendly and very helpful throughout our meal. I am always very affected by a server's manner of relating to my party. On my next visit - which is a sure thing - I will request the back room and Ria and I suggest you do the same. The Malbec we ordered was fine, but not better than that. The Lahanika - an array of seasonal grilled vegetables served with tzatziki sauce was excellent, as was the Octapodi - grilled baby octopus, capers, red peppers and onions in a red wine vinaigrette. The Horiatiki a/k/a traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, olives, and feta was wonderful...especially the large very tasty feta cheese cubes. Our two entrees were the Lavraki or Dorado and the Tsipoura or Swordfish Steak. The back and forth "oohs and ahs" between us made it clear that we had happened upon an exceptional eatery that will become a local favorite. My dining partner and I are not dessert eaters so we politely declined the on-the-house offering of a dessert, so cannot help you there, but I hope I have conveyed that Yefsi is special and very much worth a visit. Fair to tell you that this is not budget dining. A bit pricey, but worth it in my book.

Good Greek Food

By Janet D |

The food here is excellent, with a great variety of dishes. Four of us enjoyed sharing a number of dishes. the service was excellent. It was surprisingly full for a Monday PM. It was very noisy so if you want a calmer atmosphere don't go @ 'prime time'. We sat outside in an enclosed garden area which was very attractive but also noisy. A plus - its on Open Table.

Wait Staff Needs To Be Improved

By Yorkiemom520 |

I have eaten at this restaurant many times since it has opened. It is a neighborhood restaurant that always has a crowd. I requested that my three friends and myself eat in the garden . Restaurant did accommodate us. The main part of the restaurant is extremely noisy. Three of us arrived before the other diner and we were seated in the garden. We ordered glasses of wine. When the other diner arrived it took awhile before wait staff to come over to take her drink order. We requested bread and again had to wait for it. I had requested pita bread and requested it a second time. I was told it takes time to make it. We ordered our appetizers and main dishes. One of my dining companions wanted another glass of wine and it took awhile to get the attention of the wait staff. Our appetizers and main dishes were very good. I would recommend the Greek salad, zucchini chips and chicken with lemon potatoes. Maybe it was just an off night for Yefsi.

Beautiful little restaurant with great food

By Pranay R |

This place is run and managed by the Executive Chef, which is very evident in the quality of the food that is served here. The Chicken, the Hummus, the sausage salad and the fish here are to die for. There is also a cheese appetizer which we ordered 3 times, it was so delicious none of us could resist the temptation. Really worth a visit.

Great food and service

By annbury |

We went here again tonight and the food was just great. The service was good, too, as I only drink water these days and the young man with the pitcher kept coming back. We had yefsi chips, which are zucchini and eggplant slices deep fried for two seconds and served with tadziki. Then I had lamb meatballs in tomato sauce on rice and it was scrumptious. My wife had a salad and two crab cake apps; I had a taste of her crab and it was yummy. A great place, very cheerful.

Run, don't walk...

By tracydepascale |

This is one of my favorite restaurants in NYC, and not just because I live two blocks away:) The food is ALWAYS amazing and the service is excellent. I've never had a bad meal here and they are always so warm and welcoming. I've tried just about every dish on the menu and love them all. It's definitely a hidden gem.

Really good neighborhood Greek spot

By Traveltroel |

We had a delightful light meal at Yefsi a few days ago. Had the grilled octopus; the calf's liver and a platter with small portions of tzatziki, taramasalata and spicy feta. All were delightful. The restaurant has outdoor seating and a nice dining room. Great for a nice casual meal.

Very Good East SIde Greek

By Allan S |

I went to this restaurant on Easter Sunday at the recommendation of a Greek friend and was not disappointed. This York Avenue venue has been a home to a host of other places but this appears to be the best one that I have been to. Their small plates were delightful especially the octopodi with onions and the shrimp with the large greek beans in a light tomato sauce. Of course the Lamb with Potatoes was done properly(a bit over done for me) but excellent with the oregano seasoning . Unfotunately for me there was locomodos(the greek donuts that I love but very few places have them. Service was okay but teh coat check girl should learn to get off the phone when people need their items(very disappointing). All in all a good east side place and I would woul djust go there for the octopodi and drinks after work. They also have a lovely back room good for parties.

A Surprise - Real greek in old yorkville

By Megazord |

Excellent food where you would not expect it. Great neighborhood place which rivals the city's best greek.

Tasty!

By Mary L |

While the space is rather tight and the noise level high, the food makes the trip worthwhile. Freshness is key--the salad vegetables are right off the vine, the bread just baked, and the various sauces and dips are out of this world. They offer a very wide array of appetizers, with something for everyone, Traditional Greek dishes were authentic and delicious. Would definitely recommend!

Lovely service, great food

By Edward L |

We have eaten here many times. The mezze is wonderful. I love the octopus and the eggplant and zucchini chips. The grilled vegetables are delicious. The pork chop special is fabulous. The fish is fresh and the portions are plentiful. The chicken with lemon potatoes is probably my favorite. The place is noisy, but what NY restaurant isn't. Dessert is always perfect--moist but not too sweet.

Great dinner with friends

By MissMari |

Had a really nice time here for dinner with friends. Great service. Amazing good and wine. The wines are great and my server allowed me to test the wine before I got it. The Greek salad is wonderful and fresh. The fried cheese is delicious. Fish entrees and mussels are top notch. Dessert cakes were great but the greek yogurt put us over the top!

Excellent place

By vermonter57282 |

Service very good. Atmosphere very nice. We went right when they opened at 5 pm and so no reservation was necessary. The food was great. The beet salad was the yummiest thing we had on a 4 day NYC restaurant exploration. Swordfish also great. The bread and hummus they give you to start was fantastic.

Wow, amazing tasty and inexpensive

By Alexia3647 |

One of the best Greek restaurants in NY. I grew up in a Greek-American home so am picky with eating Greek out. Service was great. Place gets packed so make reservations. The octopus, giant Lima beans with shrimp, lamb Yuvetsi ( stew with noodles) and santorini white wine are highly recommended. The only thing I didn't love was the spinach pie special. Too heavy on the spinach and light on feta. The deserts were great especially the walnut cake, yalaktobouriko and baklava. Overall a great time.

Good local spot; nice lamb and good service

By annbury |

We decided to give this local spot a shot one night and it was excellent. The place was jammed but the service was brisk and professional. I particularly remember the baby lamb chops with lemon potatoes and a cake for dessert. Better than its predecessor, Rafina.

Cypress on York Ave..Upper East Side 78/79th

By Theresamlana |

I have lived in area since 1988...Yefsi is the best thing that has hit our neighborhood since Sedutto Ice Cream or Agatha and Valentina on 1st Ave ....previously a Greek Restaurant which had hardly any patrons ever there, I actually felt badly fir the owners...eventually about 3 or 4 years ago YEFSI ESTIATORIA opened snd has been jammed packed ever since...Thanks to Chef/Owner Christos..He is a Cypriot Gentle Soul whose recipes are authentic and delicious..his menu is a perfect balance of fish and meat..and greek tapas like appetizers. ..he is a noted chef from days gone by at Milo's , Avra..and many greek favorites in midtown...I eat here at least 1 per week....the vibe is very positive...dim lighting ..bar you can eat at as well...and an outside area in back of restaurant..music is piped in...staff friendly...A MUST TO TRY AND SEE FOR YOURSELF..will not be disappointed. ..try the Grilled Octopus. ...excellent

One of the better Greek restaurants in Manhattan

By eleni99999 |

Very good high end Greek food. T has a good variety. The bar is very nice and busy. Service is quite good and very friendly especially when they recognize you as a regular.

Very good dinner with friends

By Sharpdon |

The food was very good. The Garden Space in the back of the restaurant was exceptional. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a very good place to eat in NYC. I'm not a big fan of Greek food, but this restaurant is for everyone.

Our favorite Greek Resturant

By ntamborra |

This Greek Restaurant is by far the most amazing Greek food we have had. It is our favorite place to go to for Dinner which we have done so time and time again. Love it, love it, love it.

Yum

By Stuart_in_DC |

My wife has been before and filled on the grilled vegis. Tonight she had s shrimp metRO. I had lamb chops and a nice Greek red wine. 4 nice chops tasty

appetizers were good but

By PETERPNYC |

Ate here Friday night and the appetizers and salad were very good. Tables for 2 were tiny and unless you don't plan on eating They are way too small for 2 hungry men. Bronzino left a lot to be desired . Stick to the apps and you will be OK . 3 stars cause apps were 4 Star !

Greek Food As It Should Be

By silverandbluedog |

Yefsi is an authentic Greek restaurant in several ways. The welcome by the owner and hostess make you feel as if you are in the Greek isles. The space is tasteful and cozy. The Greek waiter's English is not so good, but he knocks himself out to make you happy. Their Greek salad has the best tomatoes I have ever eaten and redefines the category. The lamb is mouthwatering (I ordered it medium to be conservative but hoping it would really be medium rare and it came out just right!). I loved the lemon potatoes that came with the lamb. Red wine by the glass was excellent. Hummus and tzaziki were superb. On the way out, the owner gave us a heartfelt farewell. We shall return!

Delicious brunch!

By traveluster011 |

Delicious and different brunch than the sameo, same-o. Hostess was as warm and friendly and happy to see you as anyone in NY. Service was excellent and the food was varied and different but not all "Greek", just with a Greek twist. Well worth a brunch detour than waiting for an hour for pancakes somewhere. I genuinely look forward to returning for lunch and/or dinner!

Very tasty food!!

By marianna1981 |

We visited NYC a couple of months ago and really wanted to dine at a Greek restaurant as I really love this type of food. Well, Yefsi was really up to our expectations. I had a Greek salad and it was amazing! Greek Yoghurt is also not be missed, you won't regret it. The staff was really helpful and service was fast. NYC is far from where we live, but if we ever go back we'll certainly eat at Yefsi again!

Greek Charm

By Steven S |

Lovely Greek restaurant on the far (York Avenue) Upper East Side of Manhattan. Fine wine list but superb appetizers. You can pick and choose but the zucchini and eggplant chips with a yogurt side and the callimari with a lemon - mayo dip are exceptional. If you are having a veggie choice with your main course, go for the spinach - rice combo. Well worth the trip!

Very Good, but.....

By sthespa |

The property is very attractive and cozy. Our party of 6 first visited the bar for a few before dinner cocktails. The bartender eye measured every drink. The stemware was small enough that measuring just made no sense at all. Ok so the drinks were small and pricey. We then proceeded to sit down for dinner and also ordered 2 bottles of wine. The food was excelllent and portions were average size. The service was ok, nothing special. We then ordered a couple of expresso's and 1 after dinner drink. We were quite surprised that they didn't even offer to treat us to the small after dinner order that we had. Between the bar and dinner we spent $ 600.00. I really think picking up 2 cups of expresso and 1 liquor would have been a classy move and one that would warrant us returning. The fact that they didn't was a bit of a turnoff. Also we felt as if they wanted us to get up so the next party could be seated. I think we spent enough that we should not have felt as if they wanted us to get up and not linger. Overall the meal was very good.

Delicious Greek Food

By KG1962 |

Having recently moved to the area I was delighted to find this gem in the neighborhood. The food is amazing, and the lamb chops are not to be missed. I go early as it can get loud later as it's so popular, however with food this good it deserves to be as busy as it is.

Amazing Greek Food--What's Not to Lovea?!

By xebec01 |

The atmosphere was fun and inviting as soon as we walked in. The restaurant had a good vibe and was not too casual and not too dressy. The service was very hospitable and helpful--gave good wine recommendations when asked and attentive to our table, as needed. Our table did dinner meze style and it was all delicious! The pairings were traditional with modern takes to some extent and each was wonderful. After sampling 5 of the dishes, it seems like I couldn't go wrong with a choice on the menu. The beets marinated in garlic was particularly tasty and not overpowering at all. The feta with the eggplant puree underneath was also a table pleaser along with the gigandes. There were plenty of vegetarian options, too, which was a major plus for us. It was a really enjoyable dining experience from start to finish and I would recommend full heartedly--it seems like it would appeal and please most people and appetites. Hope you go and be sure to make reservations as the restaurant is full and walk-ins will be hard to come by.

Good people, good service

By Elizabeth S |

This place has been doing gangbuster business since it opened nearly two years ago. I have eaten in various ethnic restaurants around the world. This is the best. The food is fresh without that "restaurant" taste to it. I followed the manager, Gregori, over there from another venue. He and all his staff are really on top of their game. There is nothing Gregori wants more in this world than to manage a high quality, tight ship and this is it. If I didn't live across town, I would be in there more frequently.

Friendly Greek on upper east side

By weyl-59 |

Outstanding neighborhood spot on York -- many good choices including grilled whole branzino -- lemon potatoes are wonderful -- enjoyed appetizers: taramasalata, octopus, Greek sausage. Strong wine list including whites from Santorini.

Great food but rude owner

By szunia |

It's amazing but every time i come to this restaurant the owner and the service are so incredibly rude and dishonest. I come back because the food is good. But I would never recommend this to a friend or family or more importantly business associates. If only Greek food could travel well I would order in for delivery. Seats at the bar were reserved for patrons who never showed up and tables were denied us because of " arriving parties who needed bigger tables " who never showed up. They were out of Chardonnay and substituted more expensive wine. When I brought this to the attention of the owner he dismissed me rudely and walked away. Although the food is consistently good, the restaurant is very noisy, the owner rude and not accommodating. Rudeness has no place in hospitality business.

Excellent Greek cuisine in restaurant with fine decor

By christopherbO9687MP |

Our family had reservations (recommended) at this upscale Greek restaurant, which has an extensive fish dishes menu in addition to the traditional Greek cuisine items. I had the swordfish, which was excellent. Others had the pork dish, and enjoyed it. We also had the traditional Greek salad. We were seated promptly and had reasonably fast service; even on a busy weekend evening. We've had great Greek food over in Athens, and this restaurant holds up to that standard.

Fun Greek Experience

By Jaimee A |

This was a fun Greek experience. The restaurant is really nice and looks recently renovated. We sat outside in the garden which was lovely. We had: - Horiatiki - Greek salad - it was very tasty. Tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta and olives. No lettuce which was unique. - Pikilia - Taramosalata, Melitzanosalata, Spicy Feta, Tzatziki - All delicious. I especially liked the spicy feta. The tzatziki was delicious. - Kotopoulo Souvlak K- chicken kebobs - tasty if a bit too charred. - Saganaki - lightly fried cheese served with lemon, delicious - Mousaka - terrific. Savory delicious. - Calamari - tasty - Mojito - too watery The service was great and the bathrooms were exceptionally clean.

"A JEWEL AND ONE OF THE BEST"

By HillaryNewYork |

If you want to treat yourself to one of the best restaurants and best kept sercrets in New York, find yourself going to Yefsies! The food is Greek food and so delicious and fresh! My husband and I have been dining here at least once a week since it opened, The TOP CHEF Christos, is truly amazing. He just received 2 Michelin awards and was invited to the White House to make a diiner for the President and his guests.That tells you how great he is! There is a delightful outside enclosed patio which is perfect for romantic evenings! The food is top top notch. There is not anything that is not good on the reasonably priced menu! The fish is the best in the city and always fresh!Christos has a top notch bar tender and a very friendly and professional staff! A reservation is a must!!! You will walk away thinking, "When I am coming back'? A Must!!!

Great food and service

By Roman B |

Enjoy delicious Greek food and great service. Good choice of meat and fish, big list of Greek wines. Of course you need a reservation at busy evening. The restaurant is really popular and you can stuck in the queue waiting for the table. I've made my reservations directly from Foursquare via OpenTable. It's quite convenient.

Good neighborhood restaurant

By Yorkiemom520 |

Have been to Yefsi for brunch, lunch and dinner. The lunch and brunch menu are somewhat limited . The dinner menu is quite extensive. The appetizers are very good and I especially like the Greek salad. I would not recommend eating the lamb chops they were tough and not worth the price. The chicken dish was excellent and when I return I will be ordering it again.

A great new Greek find!

By Caris25 |

I had the opportunity to eat with friends at this new greek restaurant for an early dinner during the week; located on the east side on York Avenue between 78th and 79th streets it serves Greek and Cypriot home cooking.After a drink at the bar, we sat at the back of the restaurant in a great round table overlooking the patio (which I was told is open for al fresco dining during the warm months of the year). Our Greek host chose a set of starters and main courses for all five of us accompanied by some excellent red Greek wine. The food as well as the service were excellent. I particularly liked the tsaganaki (fried greek cheese),the pastourma (thin slices of spiced sausage served with pasta), the vegatable croquettes. By the time we finished at approximately 8 pm the restaurant was full with people waiting to be seated.... Well done to the Chef, kitchen and waiting staff for a superb greek meal.

A Greek Hideaway

By John Z |

Visited on a sunny Saturday afternoon but arrived too early and they were not quite ready for lunch. Once everything got started, the service was fine and the choices were variable. They serve a brunch-like menu that includes egg dishes, as well as a variety for the vegetarians or carnivors in your group. The Greek salad was very big and quite tasty. Also had a delightful pita with Greek cheese and Cypriot pork tenderloin. It is clear that the menu we had on that saturday is unlike those you find online. The restaurant's website itself, is awful and incomplete, so you cannot get any info there. The big surprise was the meals came (without additional charge) with either a mimosa (quite good), bloody Mary or coffee, though the waiter did not tell us or ask if we wanted any one of these (saw it on the menu). A bit pricey for the food, but still, I'd return for the food.

A Greek Tragedy

By Noam L |

The place looks nice but that's where it ends. The food is way over priced for such basic dishes ($15 for a small Greek salad? The only thing Greek about it was the lack of time and effort they took to cut up the tomatoes) and the service was a solid "meh". More about that later. For the main dish we orders beef burgers. The waiter even recommended them. They were uneatable. Dry, hard to chew and basically impossible to eat. When the waiter asked us if we enjoyed them (we clearly didn't seeing how they were still mostly untouched on our plates) we told him what we thought, and his response was "yeah, some people find them dry" and walked away not before he said that maybe next time we would have better luck. To quote my 6th fav rapper Eminem: "Next time? There will be no next time"

Disappointed!

By Valleyforgegirl |

Heard good things about this restaurant but unfortunately was a big disappointment for me! However my husband and my children enjoyed the food very much. I am a strict vegetarian so I asked the waiter if the chef could substitute veggies instead of seafood in the orzo and I was told very rudely the chef does not take specific requests. I would not recommend this restaurant to any of my vegetarian friends!

Outstanding

By James H |

Outstanding Food and Great Service. Super Friendly Staff. No rush to eat...Can enjoy your meal... Only go to NYC once a year and this is a Must stop.

Good food, bad attitude.

By arthshapiro |

The food at Yefsi is good Greek food but the people are awful. They've been open for more than a year and the hosts, including the owner are, at best, unfriendly and, at worst, downright nasty. Service is poor mainly because the management doesn't seem to care. What a pity, the food is very good. I guess they don't get it.

Amazing experience

By meredith54 |

We visited the restaurant on Easter for lunch and we really enjoyed it. We had typical Easter plates that were all very tasty and in good portions. The place is very vibrant, with fun Greek music, the staff is helpful and smiley, the owners are friendly and very warm-hearted, making you to truly enjoy your visit. The experience we had during our visit is comparable to the experience you get when you are in Greece, definitely recommended restaurant both for lunch or dinner.

A pricy but good neighborhood place

By Marilyn A |

The food is very good but I do think expensive. It is also noisy. They do have an outside eating area and if weather was better we would have eaten there. The wines are all Greek so I had a Greek beer

Love this place - best Greek I found in NYC

By ro o |

This place is only a few minutes from my apartment and I stumbled across it one day and gave it a try. What a great find. The place was packed but they found us a table fairly soon. The menu is really good and the food fabulous with great service. The place also had a great bar which was busy and a great place to stop by for cocktails and snacks. Definitely recommend anyone to try it.

As always very good

By Oystein N |

We wnt there for a Sunday lunch, and we both had Mediterranean fish with a bottle of Greek white wine, preceded by champagne

Good food and very good service indeed!

By Oystein N |

We went there for a Saturday brunch, wanting fishy stuff rather than eggs etc. The food was great, as was the wine. The service was efficient, quick, friendly and discrete. The place is quier and good for conversation.

Great greek food

By KCKC |

My husband and I wanted a Greek restaurant that offered something other than mostly fish, since I don't eat fish. We checked out the website for Yefsi and liked the menu choices. The hostess was lovely and greated us warmly, the waiter was friendly and professional and made great recommendations for wine as well. Our food was terrific. The octopus salad, Gigante beans, greek salad, swordfish, and Bifteka were all delicious. I prefer my bakalava with more nuts but their version was ok, just not my style. We will definitely go back.

Excellent greek cuisine!

By Irene K |

We are Cypriots and we were looking for a greek restaurant to eat. Thanks to the trip advisor we went to yefsi. And we didn't regret it! The food was excellent, the hospitality was perfect. Also we spoke to the sef who was also Cypriot. Just go and try some plates of the Greek cuisine.

Great Greek food - highly recommended

By THN_DK |

Can only agree with the other reviewers - great food: octopus starter really excellent+good deserts. Highly recommended