10 Incredible Greek Spots in California That Prove You Don’t Need a Passport for Real Mediterranean Flavor
California’s diverse food scene has welcomed Greek cuisine with open arms, creating authentic Mediterranean havens across the state. From family-owned tavernas to upscale eateries, these spots bring the flavors of Greece to the Golden State without the transatlantic flight. Whether you’re craving perfectly charred souvlaki, creamy tzatziki, or honey-drenched baklava, these ten Greek treasures deliver the true taste of Greece right in your neighborhood.
1. Kokkari Estiatorio, San Francisco
A cozy fireplace welcomes you into this upscale Greek sanctuary in San Francisco’s Financial District. Named after a small fishing village on the island of Samos, Kokkari serves wood-fired specialties like lamb chops and whole fish with the same care you’d find in a Greek grandmother’s kitchen.
Their grilled octopus with lemon and olive oil has earned legendary status among locals. Since 1998, this beloved institution has been the go-to spot for celebrating special occasions with authentic mezedes and hearty main courses that honor Greece’s culinary traditions.
2. Aliki’s Greek Taverna, Los Angeles
Family recipes passed down through generations form the heart of Aliki’s menu in bustling Los Angeles. Blue and white décor instantly signals your arrival in a slice of Santorini, complete with photos of Greek islands adorning the walls.
Regulars swear by the moussaka – layers of eggplant, potatoes, and seasoned ground beef topped with creamy béchamel sauce. Owner Aliki greets many customers by name, creating a neighborhood vibe that keeps locals coming back for authentic gyros and her secret-recipe baklava that strikes the perfect balance between honey sweetness and nutty crunch.
3. Mykonos, Burlingame
Seaside charm defines this Peninsula gem, where the aroma of herbs and grilling meats greets you at the door. White-washed walls and blue accents create an island atmosphere that perfectly complements the fresh seafood dishes.
Founded by the Loufas family in 1997, Mykonos serves up generations-old recipes with California flair. Their signature lemon potatoes accompany perfectly grilled lamb souvlaki, while the saganaki (flaming cheese) provides tableside excitement that never fails to delight first-timers.
Weekend evenings feature live bouzouki music, transforming dinner into an immersive cultural experience. The restaurant’s warm hospitality makes everyone feel like part of the family – exactly what you’d expect in a traditional Greek establishment.
4. The Great Greek, Sherman Oaks
Tucked away in a Valley strip mall, this unassuming spot surprises first-timers with bold, authentic flavors that rival Athens’ best tavernas. Opened in 1982, The Great Greek has become a neighborhood institution where regulars are treated like family. Weekend nights transform the restaurant with belly dancers and plate-breaking festivities that capture Greek celebratory spirit.
Their tender lamb shank falls off the bone after slow-cooking in a tomato-based sauce infused with cinnamon and cloves. Don’t miss their avgolemono soup – a velvety lemon-chicken concoction that locals order by the quart during cold season. The massive portions ensure you’ll leave with tomorrow’s lunch, making this family-owned treasure a value that keeps the tables consistently full.
5. Evvia Estiatorio, Palo Alto
Silicon Valley’s power players frequently close deals over Evvia’s legendary grilled lamb chops and mesquite-fired seafood. Sister restaurant to San Francisco’s Kokkari, this Palo Alto institution brings the same attention to detail to the Peninsula.
Their moussaka consistently ranks among the Bay Area’s best, with a silky béchamel that achieves the perfect golden crust. A robust wine list showcases Greek varieties that perfectly complement the robust Mediterranean flavors.
Since opening in 1995, Evvia has maintained its reputation as the region’s premier Greek dining destination, balancing rustic tradition with the refinement expected by its tech industry clientele.
6. The Fat Greek, Yucaipa
Mountainside Mediterranean magic awaits at this family-run taverna where the portions live up to the restaurant’s playful name. What began as a food truck has evolved into a beloved brick-and-mortar establishment serving Inland Empire residents craving authentic Greek flavors.
Gyro meat spins on vertical rotisseries visible from every table, promising fresh-carved perfection in every pita sandwich. Their tzatziki, made fresh daily with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, has developed such a following that they now sell it by the pint.
The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes it perfect for family dinners, while their efficient takeout operation serves locals looking for a quick Mediterranean fix. Don’t leave without trying their homemade loukoumades – honey-soaked dough puffs that provide the perfect sweet ending.
7. Greek Street Grill, Riverside
College students and professors from nearby universities flock to this fast-casual spot for affordable Mediterranean meals that don’t sacrifice authenticity. The modern, minimalist space features a mural of the Greek isles that serves as the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy food photos.
Their build-your-own concept lets diners customize bowls with bases like lemon rice or salad topped with protein options including perfectly seasoned chicken souvlaki or traditional gyro meat. Family recipes shine in their sides – especially the tyropita (cheese pie) with its flaky phyllo exterior and creamy feta filling.
Founded by the Stavros family in 2015, Greek Street Grill bridges traditional flavors with contemporary dining preferences. Their house-made baklava ice cream sandwich represents this perfect fusion of old-world flavors with new-world creativity.
8. Kali Greek Kitchen, Palo Alto
Farm-to-table Greek cuisine stars at this Silicon Valley hotspot where California’s fresh produce meets Mediterranean cooking techniques.
Unlike many Greek spots, Kali offers extensive vegetarian and vegan options, including mushroom souvlaki that satisfies even dedicated meat-eaters. Their yogurt bar features house-made Greek yogurt with toppings ranging from traditional honey and walnuts to California innovations like pomegranate seeds and avocado.
This creative approach to Greek cuisine keeps the restaurant packed with diners seeking healthy Mediterranean fare with a local twist.
9. Greek Bistro, Laguna Hills
Sunset views over the hills create a magical backdrop at this Orange County treasure where outdoor dining reigns supreme. Twinkling string lights and bougainvillea create a romantic atmosphere perfect for date nights and special celebrations.
Chef Nikos brings his Cretan heritage to every dish, specializing in seafood preparations rarely seen at other Greek restaurants. His octopus carpaccio with capers and olive oil showcases Mediterranean ingredients with sophisticated presentation that appeals to Orange County’s discerning diners.
The restaurant’s weekend brunch has developed a cult following for dishes like baklava French toast and Greek-style eggs Benedict with lamb. Their house-made Greek yogurt comes from a closely guarded family recipe that Chef Nikos brought from his village – thick enough to stand a spoon in and impossibly creamy.
10. Christakis Greek Cuisine, Tustin
Generations of Orange County families have celebrated milestones in this taverna’s festive blue and white dining room. The scent of oregano and lemon permeates the air, coming from the open kitchen where flames occasionally leap from saganaki presentations.
Owner Christos emigrated from Cyprus in the 1980s, bringing family recipes that showcase the island’s unique culinary influences. Their kleftiko – slow-roasted lamb wrapped in parchment – arrives at the table with theatrical presentation as servers unfold the paper to release aromatic steam.
Their extensive meze menu encourages sharing and conversation, exactly as you’d find in a traditional Greek dining experience. Many regulars skip the menu entirely, asking Christos to send out his daily recommendations for an authentic taste of his homeland.
