OPA! Modern Greek Cuisine — Restaurant in Orland Township

We had a birthday dinner for 5 on September 4th and we all collectively agree that we would not return nor would we recommend this establishment. The service is less than average and the food is acceptable, but not good enough to return for a second time. There were issues throughout our dinner that culminated in this decision and for our group, 3 of us have spent 6 weeks over the course of two years in Greece so we do not take this review lightly. We also were ONE of two tables there at 4:30PM, 30 minutes after opening.

1.) I ordered a Shirley Temple and the drink had not one, not two, not three, not four, but FIVE ants in the drink. Easily visible and seen dispersed throughout the ice. I told our waitress and she took the drink and asked, "would you like another?" .... No. I'll stick with transparent water. (I personally think we should have left then but remember, it was my mothers birthday dinner and I really did not want to start the dinner off wrong.)

2.) We ordered appetizers, each person had something they wanted to order. Not only did the waitress question of two different people, "Only for you?" When we wanted the Gyro eggrolls, she tried to discourage us from ordering this appetizer for a single person. After the food comes out, our waitress asks if we want our entrees, we order, and next thing we know, shes handing us to-go boxes to box up our food. Never in my life have I been handed a to-go box before my main entree has arrived. So, we then ate with boxes, menus, and food plates touching one another on our table because the space was now limited.

3.) My grandfather ordered lamb chops and she accidentally put in pork chops. Instead of changing the order to cajoled my grandfather into eating the pork chops saying, "My finger slipped but they are okay, just try them!" My aunt immediately said, "Well, can you even eat pork?" Because she has no idea if my grandfather wants or can eat pork. He went ahead and agreed to eating it, but we all thought that was not her place to talk him into accepting what she wanted him to eat because she made a mistake.

4.) Our waitress complained twice about splitting our checks into two checks, and then incorrectly charged each card. We told her at the beginning we had 3 on one check and 2 on the other. She then made it clear that she had to write down the appetizers now and seperate everything. At the end of the service, when she brought the one check, it was mentioned again about the split and she said, "Oh, now I have to re-enter the food." ???? Yes. That is what needs to be done. And when the checks came and the cards we placed into the check books, she then charged incorrectly the food. The checks were swapped and had to be re-done. She then mentioned she'd have to "cancel it and recharge the cards." Yes.... that is what has to happen. What kind of service is that?

5.) The Gyro eggrolls got cold very quickly as if it was microwaved and then fried to make it crispy and "warm." The fries are really the best option from what I ordered on the menu.

There was more that happened but for the sake of wanting to stay focused on what they can immediately change, the service needs to be adjusted. The manager should have been notified about the BUGGY DRINK. The waitress should be made aware of what the expectations customers have about dining, i.e., giving to-go boxes when they are LEAVING, serving food that was ORDERED by the customer not what you want them to eat, and making sure the correct checks and cards are being charged. And seeing the other reviews, maybe 3-4 years ago it was good but within the past year or so, the reviews will hint to the same thing - not good service, "okay" bartending, and the owner being almost dismissive about the reviews being written. There obviously has been zero change when people write honestly about their experiences, and with what we experienced, it is right on point with how we felt as customers. Yikes!!!

A really lack luster experience for people who absolutely love Greece and came for a special dinner. 7/10 food but...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Opa Modern Greek Cuisine, and I must say, it was an extraordinary culinary experience that transported me straight to the vibrant streets of Greece! From the moment I stepped foot inside, I knew I was in for something special.

The ambiance of Opa Modern Greek Cuisine is warm and inviting, with a contemporary twist on traditional Greek decor. The restaurant's modern aesthetic perfectly complements the rich tapestry of Greek culture, creating a delightful fusion of old and new. The staff greeted me with genuine smiles and a warm welcome, making me feel like a valued guest from the very beginning.

Now, let's talk about the food! Opa's menu boasts an extensive selection of authentic Greek dishes, each prepared with care and attention to detail. The flavors were simply sensational! I started with the classic Three Spread Sampler, which featured an array of delectable dips, succulent olives, and fresh pita bread. It was a perfect start to my meal, tantalizing my taste buds and leaving me eager for more.

For the main course, I opted for the moussaka, a traditional Greek dish with layers of eggplant, spiced ground beef, and creamy béchamel sauce. It was a true masterpiece! The flavors were robust and harmoniously balanced, and each bite was a delightful journey through the distinct Mediterranean spices. The portion size was generous, ensuring that I left the restaurant satisfied and content.

To complement my meal, I indulged in a glass of crisp Greek white wine recommended by the knowledgeable sommelier. The wine selection at Opa is extensive, showcasing both renowned Greek labels and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. It was a perfect pairing that enhanced the flavors of the dishes even further.

The service throughout my dining experience was impeccable. The waitstaff were attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their love for Greek cuisine. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and provided excellent recommendations.

Opa Modern Greek Cuisine truly exceeded my expectations, offering a gastronomic adventure that captured the essence of Greek culture. It's a place where traditional recipes are honored, and innovative techniques are embraced, resulting in a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more.

Whether you're a Greek cuisine enthusiast or someone looking to explore new flavors, Opa Modern Greek Cuisine is an absolute gem. It's a testament to the beauty of Greek cuisine and culture, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an extraordinary dining...

First the Good. Prices vs quality was good, they use quality ingredients and good presentation; they dropped the ball with food sensitivity knowledge and a serving issues.

We started with Saganaki (flaming cheese) a Classic. It hit the mark: crisp coating, soft and a hint of lemon. My issue was I didn’t have any bread to eat it with. I cannot eat American bread (unless it’s organic) the residual glyphosate (Roundup weed killer) in the GMO wheat (all American flour is GMO unless it’s ORGANIC) makes me sick 20 minutes after I eat it. Frequently I say I’m gluten free. I did ask the server if they made their delicious looking bread in house. She said they did not and left it at that. After eating the Saganaki without bread, I discovered Gluten Free pita on the bottom of the menu. Had the server inquired if I was gluten free and offered the pita as an alternative, my experience would have changed from mediocre to superb.

The next appetizer was the seafood mixed grill (shrimp, octopus & squid) it was FANTASTIC! (Great presentation with a tasty sauce) Our issue was the server placed it on the table and disappeared. There was no serving spoon on the platter! Eventually we flagged down the server and got a serving spoon after we ate about half. Another less than optimal experience.

For the main we all had braised lamb shank. It was Excellent! We like feta cheese crumbles on our Greek potatoes and asked the server if the feta was made from cow, sheep or goat milk (feta can be made from any of these), as I cannot eat cow’s milk. She said she needed to check with the kitchen. She returned and advised their feta was made with ALL the milks (cow, sheep and goat). Clearly, they had no idea what milk was in the feta; I had to take a pass.

We have a typical American family – Eastern European – Mediterranean - American. In our family we have sensitivities to Gluten, cow dairy, onions and tree nuts. We accommodate these restrictions when we cook at home.

When we go to a restaurant and the owners don’t know about food sensitivities or don’t care, I avoid those restaurants. When I have to avoid the restaurant, the people I typically dine with, by default also avoid those restaurants. This affects their bottom line and limits repeat business from people like us.

In other countries like Australia, Italy and the U.K. the majority of restaurant are aware of food sensitivities and make efforts to accommodate food sensitivities. US restaurants, like Opa, need to...