Loukoumi Taverna — Restaurant in New York

There just isn't a bad thing to say about Loukoumi Taverna, besides the lack of tables. And even though that's true, the wait made it all the better. We sat in the garden and had the experience of a lifetime. The atmosphere in the garden was incredible- a very spirited party belting Greek folk ballads joyously, asking us for our song requests- was one that truly added to the Greek family inclusive feel, and as five non-Greek out-of-towners, we couldn't have felt more at home. We ordered on the advice of Spiro and his lovely mother and were not disappointed. They suggested eating family style, and it's certainly the way to go; you'll want to try everything you can. The things they do with eggplant are downright witchcraft, the hummus is fresh, simple, and delicious, the tzatziki was unique for me and had an interesting bite, the seafood was wonderful- particularly the octopus, the beef seasoning was perfectly balanced and not overwhelming like it so often is for me, the pork tender, the sweat breads (sweat breads!) still make my mouth water when thinking back on them, and every type of sauce they had was amazing. They even stepped up lima beans- imported from Greece, apparently- to a level I didn't know they were capable of. Everyone in our party agreed everything was next-level good. Finally, I highly recommend trying the Mastika for a very interesting drink experience. It's hard to compare it to anything, as it seems to be something entirely different from any other liquor out there, and unique to Chios- the family's island of origin in Greece. There's family trappings everywhere- all the family pictures are actual family photos of the ownership, and Spiro is more than happy to tell you all about Chios. Try to make reservations the day before at least- or wait and hope for the best, I assure you it's absolutely worth it. This place is less of a pit stop on your travels and more of the reason to be in Queens or even the state of New York. Make it happen, because you're worth it- and Loukoumi Taverna will make sure...

An awesome Greek Restaurant in Astoria, Queens. The whole experience of dining here was a pleasure. Warm, friendly and courteous staff and sumptuous Greek cuisine. The restaurant has an indoor-outdoor feel due to the whole front of the place having a glass door with a part used for entrance and the balance part being a piano glass door that can be slid open during the pleasant evening hours of summer and early Fall. We were lucky that the evening was pleasant and the front glass door was open. Almost went into the restaurant through it!!!! Simple and elegant interiors give a sense of warmth and a feeling of relaxation. Did not have to wait for a table and were seated immediately. Started with wine. The bottle of Greek dry white wine, a Sauvignon Blanc was quite good. The appetizers were very flavourful and tasty, specially the meatballs which were very Greek with cheese inside with a delicious sauce. The 2 main dishes - jumbo shrimp and lamb stew (special of the day) were excellent. The lamb in the stew was perfectly done and very tender and the stew was very tasty. The jumbo shrimp was excellent too. This is definitely a place one can come to for an enjoyable evening with family and friends or for a...

Being at this restaurant reminded me what it was like to be back home, with endless dishes of incredible food, wine, and laughter flowing constantly. Despite coming on Valentine’s Day, one of the busiest nights and while also hosting a large event in the back, Loukoumi seated us immediately and after ordering, we got our food within minutes and we never waited or stayed hungry.

Let me emphasize that last point, because the gracious owner made sure that we were always accommodated and happy. She wasn’t just our waitress that night but in a sense was our “Mama”. She would not only bring us what we ordered but would also surprise us with dishes from the kitchen for us to try because she was just so excited that we were enjoying our night at her restaurant. Despite this being my second time in this restaurant, I felt like I’ve been here my whole life because it brings back memories of my childhood. I had my own Anton Ego ratatouille moment every time I tried any of the dishes.

For the price, the environment, and the hospitality, you will struggle finding a better place than Loukoumi. Going to a restaurant usually feels so transactional but at Loukoumi, it was like I was having dinner...