Nina’s Traditional Greek Cuisine & Pizzeria — Restaurant in Palm Springs

*   FILTHY PROPRIETORS & FILTHY RESTAURANT **

A GREEK TRAGEDY - Hades and Medusa are definitely alive and looming within Nina's Greek Cuisine

As a local, we finally had the opportunity to try this place.  What a big mistake .

The restaurant clearly displays their open operating hours are until 8:00 pm. I guess that means 8:00 in another time zone. We walked into the restaurant at 7:30 to place a to-go order (since they have no website or way to place an order online). Upon entry, an elderly man who I assume was Mr. Nina abruptly and rudely stated that they were closed. I looked at my watch because I wondered if it had stopped or perhaps I missed Daylight Saving Time. Nope, it was only 7:30 and we thought he must be making a joke and must be just kidding around. Apparently not because he actually started to yell at us stating again that they were closed. He then told us to get out. Yup, he actually told us to leave.

Then, some woman, who we assume must also be the owner and namesake Nina came running out of the kitchen blabbering and screaming. It was all just crazy for words, so we walked out (or were thrown out) in total disbelief. Then both of these two freaks followed us outside into the parking lot. Not only were they yelling, the insane couple then proceeded to swear, use vulgarities and then flip us off. Seriously, they both flipped us off. Totally insane, but 100% true. Who behaves like this?

In retrospect, it was probably a blessing.  Upon researching their health report, it turns out that this restaurant has some serious health violations.  Not only are these people FILTHY, so is their restaurant.

Here are a few excerpted highlights. Using fly swatters inside food facility Observed 2 containers of raw shelled eggs stored above raw vegetables Observed a bottle of equipment oil stored on shelving with foods for customers near rear exit door. Properly storeall toxic substances away from food and food equipment. Containers of cooked sausage, grilled red peppers and cooked noodles measured between 75-80F cooling at room temperature near rear exit door Observed 1 expired food handler card

Based on other reviews, this was not an isolated incident.  I could cite another Greek tragedy, but there is no need.  Needless to say, never...

Theft. We bought a large order for takeout 10 January '24. The total bill seemed excessive and I questioned it. 'No, it's right.' I paid, cash, and left with our food. Next morning, it still rubs me the wrong way, so I add up our bill from menus online. We were overcharged at least $13 on a $117 bill. So I drove back there at opening time the next morning to question it, double check their current menu prices. Due diligence. Yup, overcharged. I tried to talk to her about it 'No, no, I'm too busy now, I can't deal with it. Come back at 2:00.' It would have taken 3 seconds to give me $13 from the till. OK, 3 hours later, I drive back there, again. She adds up our bill with some 'creative' flourishes like 'Did you get 2 meatballs in your order or just 1? You sure you didn't have hummous? You must have had hummous. Which size salad did you receive?' Well, we ordered a small salad. 'Oh, I think we gave you a large one, so you have to pay the difference.' The last straw was 'Oh, garlic bread! I charged you for two, $8. You have to tell me beforehand if you don't want it, otherwise I include it...You're not local.' Needless to say this is not noted on the menu. She offered to refund 1 garlic bread, $4, which was the final insult. Never again. So, all you non-locals in Palm Springs, if you want to get fleeced, head right to Nina's because she knows how it's done. Con artist. We have traveled extensively in Greece over many years and have never been treated that way...

If you want good authentic Greek food, this is the "IT" spot! Stop by here when y'all are hungry, I PROMISE you wont regret it!!! The owners are wonderful too! A sweet couple, from Greece too! My family and I have made it a "family tradition" of sorts to get dinner from them at LEAST twice a month when we are in town. We've been customers of theirs for the last 10 years. We have our vacation home in Palm Springs and we are there 6 months out of the year from Colorado. They remember us EVERY time we come in, even though they don't see us for 6 months at a time. They definitely remember their customers and treat them accordingly. You are definitely met with the same energy you walk into their establishment with. I wouldn't listen to the negative reviews, it seems like those with negative reviews were met with the same energy/attitude that they were giving the owners and their employees. Anyway, this place is worth your time, energy, and money! You wont regret making this little gem a part of your monthly dinner routine/life. Don't think about it anymore, just get over there and order some deliciously...