Go-to Greek in Union Square – Village Taverna

After living here for a year now, you’d think I’d have my “go-to” restaurants picked out. But since I’m also up for trying somewhere new, I’ll never be the first to suggest a place I’ve already been. However, when going out with a friend, who’s lived here a bit longer than I have, suggests her “go-to” for dinner, I was excited to not only try somewhere new, but to also go somewhere that was deemed “consistently good” according to her.

Village Taverna, nestled right on the corner of University Place and 11^th street, is the perfect place to go to for consistently good and authentic Greek food, with a menu including your favorite dishes and lesser known items you’ve never heard of. Think hummus, greek salad, and souvlaki for the traditional eater and makronada, paidakia, and kontosouvli for the more adventurous eaters.

Inside Village Taverna

The interior is modern, fresh, and friendly, with white-washed walls and a chalk board listing daily specials. I also want to note that on a Thursday night, this 60-seat restaurant was bumping and jam-packed, with almost every table full. Definitely make a reservation to guarantee yourself a table.

To start, my friend and I ordered the Melitzanosalata, also known as eggplant dip. Made with pureed fine roasted eggplants, garlic, vinegar, fresh herbs, and extra virgin olive oil, this dip paired perfectly with the warm toasted pita bread that is brought to your table immediately upon being seated. Our server was friendly and patient and happy to answer our (many) questions. With her help I decided to go with one of the specials of the day, which was just an enhanced version of their greek salad with added capers and pita crisps. And my friend went with the Gyro Platter, which comes served with lettuce, tomatoes and onions over rice pilaf and grilled pita. And as regular, she knew to order a side of their famous honey balsamic dressing.

My entrée was delicious and filling, especially with the addition of shrimp. And overall, including the app, our meal was affordable at just over $20 per person. I can fully understand why Village Taveran has become my friend’s “go-to”. With many greek places in the city, they either don’t seem authentic or you find yourself eating alone with no other customers in sight. Village Taverna seems to avoid both stigmas and provided a wonderful dining experience. The next time someone asks where they should eat near Union Square, rest assured I now have my go to!

Village Taverna – Website
81 University Place, NY, NY