Sleek, chic, and elevated are three of many elegant terms to describe Paros, the new-ish Greek restaurant that’s graced New York’s Tribeca neighborhood since its October opening.
The restaurant—aptly named for its inspiration, the Greek island Paros, located in the Aegean Sea—was opened by George Pagonis, once a Top Chef finalist who gained experience working at the ever-popular José Andres’ Zaytinya and Kyma, and his brother, Nicholas Pagonis.
George Pagonis said in a release near the restaurant’s opening that it will “transport” diners to the Greek island.
“Just over 140 miles southeast of Athens, in the heart of the Aegean Sea, lies the sunbaked island of Paros: a tourmaline-watered oasis tucked away in the beautiful Cycladic Islands,” said George Pagonis, in a statement on the restaurant’s website, elaborating on his connection to the island. “Each summer, my brother, Nicholas, and I would spend the entire season enjoying the Paros sand and surf, soaking up our family’s native culture…and sampling the island’s glorious food again and again.”
Nicholas Pagonis echoed his brother’s effusive sentiment in the October release about Paros, the place, and shared their personal connection. “Paros stands as a tribute to the beautiful island on which we spent our summers growing up,” he said. “A true full circle moment for my brother and I, to share a piece of our family, and our culture, with New York City.”
The restaurant does give off that tranquil by-the-sea breathing-a-sigh-of-relaxation vibe. The whitewashed walls, adorned with vines and bright flowers, give the open space a bright feel. The concept is meant to encapsulate Cycladic architecture.
In the months following its debut, Paros made headlines for appealing to the likes of Taylor Swift, but the restaurant offers far more than celebrity allure. The environment, light and airy yet trendy and hip, lends itself to every occasion, from family dinners and girls’ nights out to intimate date nights and celebratory gatherings.
And while the restaurant’s atmosphere is reason enough to visit, the menu takes the dining experience to another level.
We kicked off our dining experience with a cocktail from the restaurant’s white marble bar—and the Grecian-tini, made with Grey Goose Vodka, Skinos Masticha, mint, and fresh cucumber juice, was delightful, refreshing, and worth ordering a second to enjoy with dinner. Paros also boasts a bevy of other cocktail options, liquor options, and an extensive wine list.
Dinner was exceptional. Standouts from our experience included Tuna Crudo, accented by yuzu, green olive, dill, red onion, and togarashi, which was flavorful and light; Lamb Chops, served with hand-cut fries; and the Lavraki, a grilled whole fish that was aptly described as flaky and mild on the menu.
We finished off the meal with Greek Yogurt, a dish typically topped with sour cherries, walnuts, and honey, which we opted to have sans walnuts. The thick yogurt felt indulgent to spoon up after a meal that felt high quality and luxurious yet not overly filling.
The meal was one worth considering in the months to follow—it’s been discussed on multiple occasions with friends and loved ones—and we’re certainly looking forward to returning.
Top Takeaways
Location: New York, New York
Cuisine: Greek
Price Point: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes – Resy
The vibe: Chic Greek dining nodding to the island of Paros and offering a moment of escape from the New York hustle.
Our favorite thing on the menu: Lavraki, this whole grilled fish is light, delicious, and mild.
The attire based on the vibe: Casual chic
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Sunday through Monday (11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.), Tuesday through Thursday (11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.), Friday through Saturday (11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.), brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and happy hour is offered daily (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.).
