10 Greek Restaurants In Illinois That Will Steal Your Heart
There’s something about Greek food that just hits, right? Maybe it’s the char on the lamb, or that first bite of crispy spanakopita that makes you wonder how something so flaky can be so perfect.
Whatever it is, Illinois does Mediterranean food like it’s second nature and these Greek spots prove it. Forget the tired chain restaurants you’ve seen a thousand times.
These family-run places are where you’ll find food that actually feels like it came from Greece, not some factory kitchen. From savory gyros piled high with tender, marinated meat to baklava that melts in your mouth, each bite is a little piece of heaven.
The best part? It’s not just about the food.
It’s about the atmosphere: warm, welcoming, and down-to-earth. These restaurants don’t just feed you; they make you feel like part of the family.
Ready to taste your way through the best Greek meals in Illinois? Let’s dive in.
1. Greek Islands – Chicago
Walking into Greek Islands feels like stepping off a plane in Athens, minus the jet lag and passport hassle. Located at 200 S Halsted St in Chicago’s Greektown, this beloved institution has been serving up authentic Hellenic flavors since 1971, making it a true pioneer in the neighborhood.
The moment you cross the threshold, the aroma of lemon, oregano, and grilled meats wraps around you like a warm Mediterranean hug.
Their saganaki flaming cheese show never gets old—watching skilled servers ignite the Kasseri cheese tableside while shouting “Opa!” brings pure joy every single time. The menu reads like a greatest hits album of Greek cuisine, featuring everything from tender lamb chops to buttery spanakopita that flakes at the gentlest touch.
Their avgolemono soup achieves that perfect silky texture that makes you wonder if they’ve got a Greek grandmother hidden in the kitchen.
Families pack the spacious dining room on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere that mirrors actual tavernas across Greece. The portions here don’t mess around—you’ll likely need a to-go box, but that just means tomorrow’s lunch is already sorted.
Service strikes that sweet balance between attentive and giving you space to enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace, exactly as dining should be experienced in Greek culture.
2. Athena Greek Restaurant – Chicago
Right next door to its Greektown neighbors at 212 S Halsted St, Athena Greek Restaurant holds its own with a menu that celebrates traditional recipes passed down through generations. This family-run gem doesn’t rely on gimmicks or fusion experiments—just honest, soul-satisfying Greek food executed with precision and care.
The dining room exudes that comfortable, lived-in feeling where regulars greet staff by name and newcomers quickly become friends.
Their moussaka deserves its own fan club, layered with perfectly seasoned ground meat, creamy béchamel, and tender eggplant that melts on your tongue. Each forkful delivers that comforting richness that makes you understand why this dish has survived centuries of culinary evolution.
The Greek salad arrives piled high with crisp vegetables, briny Kalamata olives, and generous chunks of feta that actually taste like it came from Greece.
What really sets Athena apart is the genuine hospitality that permeates every interaction—servers take time to explain dishes and offer recommendations without making you feel rushed. Prices remain remarkably reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes, making this spot perfect for both special occasions and casual Tuesday night dinners.
The baklava here achieves that elusive perfect ratio of honey to phyllo to walnuts that haunts your dreams.
3. Psistaria Greek Taverna – Lincolnwood
Venture north to 4711 W Touhy Ave in Lincolnwood and discover Psistaria Greek Taverna, where the focus lands squarely on grilled perfection. The name itself means “grill house” in Greek, and boy, do they take that designation seriously.
Every protein that hits their grill emerges with those beautiful char marks and smoky flavors that make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Their grilled octopus could convert even the most skeptical seafood doubters—tender, charred just right, and dressed simply with olive oil and lemon to let the natural flavors shine through. The chicken souvlaki skewers arrive juicy and flavorful, proving that simple preparations often yield the most memorable results.
Sides like lemon potatoes get roasted until crispy-edged and golden, soaking up all those delicious pan drippings.
The suburban location means easier parking than downtown options, which parents with kids particularly appreciate after a long week. Inside, the atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and special-occasion-worthy, making it versatile enough for date nights or family gatherings.
Their lunch specials offer incredible value without sacrificing quality, perfect for remote workers seeking a midday escape from home office monotony. The staff genuinely seems to love their jobs, sharing recommendations with enthusiasm that feels authentic rather than scripted.
4. Mykonos Greek Restaurant – Niles
Tucked away at 8660 W Golf Rd in Niles, Mykonos Greek Restaurant brings island vibes to the suburbs with decor that channels the whitewashed buildings and azure waters of its namesake. This neighborhood favorite has built a loyal following by consistently delivering quality Greek fare without the downtown price tags or parking nightmares.
The menu covers all the classics while sneaking in a few regional specialties that showcase the owner’s particular heritage.
Their pastitsio—often called Greek lasagna—layers tubular pasta with spiced meat sauce and béchamel in a way that’ll make Italian grandmothers jealous. Each square emerges from the oven bubbling and golden, with flavors that deepen and meld into something truly comforting.
The gyro meat gets shaved fresh from the rotating spit, ensuring every sandwich delivers that perfect combination of crispy edges and tender, juicy centers.
Families appreciate the welcoming attitude toward children, with servers who actually seem delighted rather than annoyed when little ones join the table. The portions lean generous, often providing enough for lunch the next day, which makes the already reasonable prices feel like an even better deal.
During warmer months, a small patio offers al fresco dining that lets you pretend you’re actually sitting seaside in Greece, especially if you squint and use your imagination.
5. THASSOS GREEK RESTAURANT – Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills might seem an unexpected location for exceptional Greek cuisine, but THASSOS GREEK RESTAURANT at 1 Walker Ave proves that great food knows no geographical boundaries. Named after a picturesque Greek island, this hidden gem delivers authenticity that rivals anything you’d find in larger cities.
The intimate setting creates a dining experience that feels personal and special, like you’ve been invited to a Greek friend’s home for dinner.
Their lamb dishes showcase the kitchen’s skill with traditional preparations—slow-roasted until fork-tender and seasoned with herbs that transport your senses straight to the Mediterranean hillsides. The dolmades arrive perfectly rolled, with grape leaves embracing a filling of rice, herbs, and just enough lemon to brighten every bite.
Even simple dishes like their Greek-style green beans get elevated with tomatoes, olive oil, and a touch of cinnamon that adds unexpected depth.
What makes THASSOS special is the attention to detail visible in every aspect of the operation, from the thoughtfully curated menu to the carefully selected Greek music playing softly in the background. The owners clearly pour their hearts into this place, and that passion translates directly onto your plate.
Reservations get recommended for weekend dinners, as word has spread about this suburban treasure and locals fill the cozy dining room quickly.
6. Yannis Gyros – Springfield
Sometimes you don’t need white tablecloths and fancy ambiance—you just need a phenomenal gyro that hits the spot perfectly. Yannis Gyros at 1814 Adlai Stevenson Dr in Springfield delivers exactly that with a no-frills approach that lets the food do all the talking.
This counter-service spot has become a Springfield institution, feeding everyone from state capitol workers to families grabbing a quick, satisfying meal.
The gyros here achieve that magical combination of crispy-edged meat, cool tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and warm pita that makes you understand why this street food conquered the world. They don’t skimp on portions—each sandwich comes loaded with meat shaved fresh from the spit, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
The fries get a Greek twist with a sprinkle of oregano and a side of tzatziki for dipping, turning a simple side into something crave-worthy.
Speed and efficiency define the service here, making it perfect for lunch breaks when time runs short but hunger runs deep. Despite the quick-service format, quality never suffers—ingredients taste fresh, preparations follow traditional methods, and consistency remains remarkably high visit after visit.
Prices stay budget-friendly enough that you can feed a whole crew without breaking the bank, which explains why you’ll often see construction workers, students, and business professionals all sharing the dining room.
7. KALA Modern Greek – Chicago
KALA Modern Greek at 2523 N Clark St takes traditional Greek cuisine and gives it a contemporary twist without losing the soul that makes Mediterranean food so beloved. The sleek, modern interior attracts a younger crowd while still appealing to traditionalists who appreciate quality ingredients and skilled preparations.
This Lincoln Park hotspot proves that respecting culinary heritage and embracing innovation aren’t mutually exclusive concepts.
Their menu reimagines classics with creative flair—think whipped feta topped with unexpected ingredients or grilled fish preparations that incorporate modern techniques while honoring traditional flavors. The spreads platter offers a tour through various dips and spreads, each one showcasing different flavor profiles and textures that keep your palate engaged.
Everything arrives beautifully plated, Instagram-worthy without sacrificing substance for style.
The open kitchen lets diners watch the culinary team work their magic, adding an element of theater to the dining experience. Brunch service has developed a devoted following, with Greek-inspired breakfast dishes that’ll make you rethink your usual weekend routine.
The space itself feels energetic and social, perfect for groups celebrating special occasions or friends catching up over shared plates. Service staff demonstrates genuine knowledge about the menu, offering pairing suggestions and explaining preparations with enthusiasm that enhances the overall experience.
8. Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina – Chicago
Just down the street from KALA at 1755 N Sheffield Ave, Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina brings its own interpretation of modern Greek dining to the Lincoln Park neighborhood. The name translates roughly to “Grandmother’s Kitchen,” and the menu honors traditional recipes while presenting them with contemporary sensibilities.
Exposed brick and warm wood tones create an atmosphere that feels both rustic and current, like a taverna that somehow time-traveled from a Greek village into modern Chicago.
Their mezze selections encourage sharing and exploration, allowing groups to sample multiple flavors and discover new favorites along the way. The grilled halloumi arrives with a drizzle of honey that creates that addictive sweet-salty combination, while the lamb meatballs deliver robust flavors wrapped in tender, juicy perfection.
Vegetarians find plenty to love here, with creative preparations that showcase Mediterranean vegetables at their absolute best.
Weekend crowds pack the place, testament to the restaurant’s popularity among neighborhood residents and destination diners alike. The noise level runs high during peak times, creating an energetic buzz that some find exhilarating and others might find overwhelming—choose your timing accordingly.
Despite the modern approach, nothing tastes gimmicky or overly fussed-with; the kitchen clearly understands that good Greek food starts with quality ingredients treated with respect and skill.
9. Nostimo Greek Kitchen – Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights residents hit the jackpot when Nostimo Greek Kitchen opened at 286 W Rand Rd, bringing elevated Greek cuisine to the suburbs without requiring a trek downtown. The name means “delicious” in Greek, and the kitchen backs up that bold claim with every dish that leaves the pass.
Clean, contemporary design creates a setting that works equally well for business lunches, date nights, or family dinners celebrating good report cards.
Their approach balances tradition and innovation thoughtfully—you’ll find familiar favorites executed with care alongside creative interpretations that showcase the chef’s culinary vision. The grilled branzino gets deboned tableside, arriving perfectly cooked with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh that needs nothing more than a squeeze of lemon.
Their take on spanakopita features flaky phyllo wrapped around a spinach-feta filling that achieves that ideal ratio of greens to cheese.
Lunch specials offer exceptional value, making midday visits particularly attractive for the budget-conscious without compromising on quality or portion size. The suburban location means parking never becomes a headache, a small but significant advantage that parents and anyone tired of circling city blocks truly appreciate.
Staff members strike that perfect balance of professionalism and friendliness, making recommendations without being pushy and checking in without hovering annoyingly over your table throughout the meal.
10. Greek Feast – Northbrook
Greek Feast at 2784 Dundee Rd in Northbrook lives up to its name by delivering generous portions of authentic Greek cuisine that truly constitute a feast. This family-friendly establishment has become a go-to spot for Northbrook residents seeking reliable, delicious Greek food in a comfortable, unpretentious setting.
The menu reads like a comprehensive tour through Greek culinary traditions, offering something for every palate and preference.
Their combination platters solve the problem of wanting to try everything—you get a little taste of multiple specialties without committing to a single entrée. The roasted chicken emerges from the kitchen golden and glistening, seasoned with herbs and lemon that penetrate deep into the meat for flavor in every bite.
Sides like rice pilaf and roasted vegetables come included with most meals, rounding out plates into complete, satisfying experiences.
What keeps customers returning isn’t just the food, though that certainly helps—it’s the consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere that makes Greek Feast feel like a neighborhood staple. Takeout and catering services extend the restaurant’s reach beyond the dining room, making it easy to bring Greek flavors to home gatherings and office events.
The prices remain reasonable enough for regular visits rather than special-occasion-only dining, which explains the steady stream of repeat customers who know exactly what they’re craving before they even walk through the door.