Korali Estiatorio

Korali Estiatorio Restaurant Review:

Korali Estiatorio is an airy and casually relaxed restaurant in an Upper East Side area generally known for pubs and diner fare. While the food is generally very good, the service hasn't met the standards, so patience and a strong sense of humor are required. The menu offers mezedes along with dishes redolent of a trip to the Greek Isles. A bar is lined with topnotch Greek libations including Metaxa, as well as wines like Rapsani and Asyrtiko Kousoginopoulos. Authenticity is the name of the game here, extending to the music played quietly in the background, with dishes derived from recipes from the owner's childhood. Homemade spanakopita is among the best in the city, along with pita for dipping into tzatziki. Baby lamb chops are tender and flavorful, paired with roasted lemon potatoes and saucy, giant lima beans. Moussaka is rich in yogurt béchamel, and grilled octopus has a nice char. Always a standout at Greek restaurants, the whole filleted fish shouldn’t be missed, with daily specialties including branzino and dorado. For a sweet way to end a meal, have the simple Greek delicacy of yogurt with honey and walnuts.