Yia Yia's Taverna — Restaurant in New York

Awful experience, unprofessional management. Called ahead on a Wednesday, we always plan ahead having a toddler and an infant. I requested specifically to seat at the back patio and even asked to make a reservation. I was told yes, come over, I left my name and we arrive, a family of 5, stroller etc… The place was almost empty with two-three staff standing. As we moved toward the back we were stopped and informed that the patio opens only on the weekends because of staff shortage! As we stand there, I see two patrons that already were having a drink at the patio, being escorted to the front of the store. They were clearly closing the patio to avoid sitting us there!!! The person I spoke on the phone reacted as if she had never heard from me. The manager/owner was plainly rude and completely unaccommodating, I felt like I was being kicked out by a bouncer at some bar, while standing there with my entire family. The interior space and the front seating area were deplorable, disgusting and poorly lit with some cheap neon lighting. I guess this place adequately functions as a back yard restaurant only during the summer season weekends and hopes for b-bar service and deliveries during the week. Good luck with that and please change the name to save other families from the ordeal. What a shame for a place supposedly representing my culture, that is all about hospitality. I did not make it to trying the food and of course I am not going back, but I have a feeling I did not miss much. Luckily, there are many excellent choices for good greek food in Brooklyn and even...

After seeing 4.9 as an overall rating for this restaurant, I wanted to try it out. I'm Greek, so i have a true understanding of what Greek food should taste like, and unfortunately - as with most Greek restaurants outside of Astoria - the food here is simply OK.

Let's start with the 5 star items:

Very friendly staff with what appears to be a true interest in keeping patrons happy (based on my interaction, and what I saw with other tables) Lovely backyard patio and decor,, as well as some tables on Flushing Ave. Clean and appropriate social distancing. Prices are very good and portions are nicely sized. Grilled Octopus was excellent.

Now to the 3 star items:

Red Sangria was ok. Nicely priced for $4 for Happy Hour, however way too much ice in the glass (so you end up having to get more). Keftedakia (Greek style meatballs) were also ok. Seasoning wasn't apparent and they were slightly over cooked on the outside. The Tzatziki was nice, as was the Pita Bread.

Now to the 1.5 star items" The Fried Calamari was tasteless, too crunchy, and came out way too quick after ordering. Seems like it was pre cooked and left standing. No way it can be prepped within 5 minutes of ordering. Absolutely not worth trying at all. The Saganaki (Fried Cheese) would have been better had it not had a strong taste of liquor (its a flambe situation) that leaves an awful aftertaste.

Not sure what other items taste like, but based on my experience today, I'd be...

A Truly Authentic Greek Dining Experience

As a family from Athens, Greece, we’re often skeptical when it comes to Greek restaurants abroad—but this place absolutely blew us away. From the moment we stepped into the beautiful yard, we felt right at home. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with stunning art on the walls that added a cool, creative touch.

The service was exceptional—everyone was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure we were taken care of throughout the entire evening.

Now, the food… every single dish was a hit with our entire family. Everything tasted unbelievably fresh and flavorful. The grilled octopus was a standout—cooked to absolute perfection with the ideal texture. That was my personal favorite, although honestly, it’s hard to choose because all the dishes were outstanding.

The lamb was another highlight—juicy, tender, and deeply flavorful. My family couldn’t stop talking about how impressed they were with each bite.

This restaurant truly delivered an authentic Greek dining experience, and we left feeling both full and happy. We’ll...