Set the scene.
When it comes to blending cultures, few do it as effortlessly–and deliciously–as Demetri Makoulis and Sarah Schneider. The duo behind the Williamsburg brunch spot Egg Shop has returned to the city’s food scene with Gus & Marty’s, a Greek-American restaurant just a stone’s throw away on the border of Greenpoint.
Named for their fathers, each of whom played a pivotal role in shaping Demetri’s Greek-American heritage, Gus & Marty’s is as much about family as it is about exceptional food. The space, crafted by Sarah Carpenter Studio, fuses warm, rustic elements–think limestone walls and marble floors–with playful nods to Demetri’s and Sarah’s own lineage. Quite literally, in fact: ceramic busts of their fathers and vintage family portraits line the walls.
The dining room, split into two sections, is buzzy yet intimate and is ideal for a quick bite and a glass of wine or long, lingering dinners.
What can we expect from the food?
Honoring tradition while embracing modern sensibilities, the menu combines the rich flavors of Greece with a fresh New York perspective. Fueled by their vision to create a neighborhood gathering spot (on an otherwise overlooked corner) where classic Greek dishes are given a contemporary update, the couple enlisted the expertise of culinary consultant Chef Kenny Cuomo (formerly of Per Se, Blue Hill Farm, and Del Posto) and Chef Peter Lipson, who has honed his skills at notable establishments such as Emepllón and Northern Spy Food Co.
Every meal here should begin with freshly baked hand-stretched pita and meze; more specifically, the Taramasalata with Trout Caviar. This dish–a playful homage to the traditional Greek combination of smoked fish and potato–also nods to New York’s long-standing love affair with smoked fish and caviar, bridging the gap between Greek and Jewish appetizing cultures.
For something light and refreshing, try the Horiatiki Salad, a vibrant mix of cucumber, tomato, feta, capers, and a generous drizzle of Gus & Marty’s exclusive extra virgin olive oil. However, anyone in the know will opt for Dakos & Mizuna Salad: a true Greek specialty with mustard greens, crispy Cretan croutons, and creamy Mizithra cheese, all tossed in a zesty sesame vinaigrette.
Moving into larger plates to share, Crispy Whole Shrimp–served with a tangy yogurt sauce, Aleppo pepper, and mint–offers a crunchy, flavorful bite. The Moussaka a la Eggplant Parm is a sumptuous take on the classic Greek dish with crispy eggplant, silky bechamel, Vlahoriti cheese, and a rich beef ragù that delivers all the indulgence of an eggplant parm with a distinctly Greek twist.
The grilled fish and meat offerings shine with dishes like Petit Gyros & Fries, where roasted garlic, pickled peppers, and spiced tzatziki take the iconic handheld classic to new heights. However, the Whole Fish for 2 is truly the showstopper here: fire-roasted branzino, served with capers, dill, garlic, and lemon quickly became a customer favorite.
Those craving something that speaks to the soul of Greek home cooking should order the Roasted Lamb Shoulder; it comes perfectly tender and complemented with fennel, crushed olives, and crispy potatoes.
Tell us about the drinks.
The beverage program, a thoughtful exploration of Greek wines, spotlights indigenous varietals from regions like Thessaly, Achaia, and Macedonia.
Craving something stronger? Ouzo, Tsipouro, and Mastiha–beloved Greek spirits–are on hand, as are classic cocktails that carry a Mediterranean flair.
Final thoughts?
Gus & Marty’s invites guests to celebrate the joy of good food and family traditions. On a quiet corner of Brooklyn, the ideals of a Greek-American taverna meet the best of New York’s culinary scene.
Top Takeaways:
Location: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Address: 232 N 12th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Cuisine: Greek-American
The vibe: The rustic design evokes the laidback environs and conviviality of a rustic taverna while the menu promises a true New York-influenced dining experience.
Pricing: $
Takes reservations? Yes–Resy
Our favorite dish on the menu: The Taramasalata with Trout Caviar and Moussaka a la Eggplant Parm should not be skipped.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Dinner: Monday from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday to Thursday from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; and Saturday and Sunday from 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
