Dreamy beaches, incredible food, rich culture—these are just a few reasons why people fall in love with Greece. While NYC’s shoreline doesn’t hold a candle to the Med, a thriving Greek-American community is bringing the best of the homeland to the Big Apple. From Astoria to SoHo, here are six spots to experience Greece in New York City.  

Greek Culinary Experiences

Taverna Kyclades (Astoria, Queens)

This lively taverna serves up some of the most authentic family-style eats—and it’s far from a secret. Both the original Astoria location and its East Village outpost are almost always packed, but it’s worth the wait for impressive portions of hearty dishes like sizzling saganaki, lamb chops, and grilled seafood.

Pi Bakerie (SoHo, Manhattan)

Reward yourself after a SoHo shopping spree with a heaping plate of Greek treats. Nearly everything at this posh spot is made from scratch, from the flaky filo dough used for the savory pies and baklava to the assortment of decadent cakes (the portokalopita, a syrupy orange cake, is absolutely divine). 

Titan Foods (Astoria, Queens)

America’s largest Greek market is the ultimate place to shop for specialty foods and products in Astoria. Come for a dizzying array of cheeses, dried herbs, jams, and other delectable ingredients imported from all over the Balkans. Can’t go in person? Head to their website to purchase goods online. 

Aimé Leon Dore (Nolita, Manhattan)

Teddy Santis, the founder of hip label Aimé Leon Dore pays homage to his heritage by offering traditional Greek coffees, teas, and pastries in his Nolita flagship. Grab a freddo-espresso and pastries, then shop the brand’s latest collection of trendy streetwear (the latest creative campaign was shot in Greece). 

Greek Cultural Institutions & Exhibits

Onassis Cultural Center (Midtown, Manhattan)

This Midtown institution promotes Hellenic culture from antiquity to the present through an extensive rotation of free exhibitions and initiatives. The institution has a particular focus on spotlighting emerging Greek talent in the visual arts, music, dance, and more. 

The Objects of Common Interest Exhibit at The Noguchi Museum (Long Island City, Queens)

Until February, the Noguchi Museum, in Queens, will be presenting an exciting collaboration with award-winning Greek studio Objects of Common Interest inspired by Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi’s profound connection to Greece.