Athena Greek Restaurant — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

First of all: Within price point, if you are coming to downtown Chicago and want fine-dining traditional Greek cuisine, and you don't necessarily feel like being in suit and tie? You will not go wrong in this location. Athena Greek Restaurant is outstanding for its price point.

Second of all: Be aware of the price point. I have noticed comments that hint people weren't ready. You should expect for a two person table a $100+ range meal, and closer to $150 if you are enjoying some of their fine selection of wine. Be aware of this price before coming in. With that said? Is it worth the price?

Oh yes... yes it is.

Now, I am a lover of many traditional dishes like Dolmades, Gyros, Pastisio and the like, and so a country-style traditional staple like Exohiko sings to my pallet. My spouse tried the Arni Fournou after a selection of their spreads. The lamb was melt in your mouth perfection, precisely and wonderfully seasoned. I had just a taste of their dish and was a little jealous until I took a good bite of mine. Creamy, with the pastry being a buttery that made you feel warm inside. The feta and spinach merge all together in a way that makes you remember a 'spinach pie,' and yet... it is something entirely different and wonderful. I had just the briefest of "Anton Ego" moments at that first bite. It did not quite bring me to tears, but the love and skill with which it was made was exquisite. I will almost certainly try the Braised Lamb or perhaps their Dolmades next time I have the chance to come here (not often. I'd love to rate restaurants like this until I pass out in a food coma, but we all live on a budget. Today was special.).

It is not often that I enjoy a table wine with my meal, but I will say that they have an excellent selection of lighter, just slightly fruitier wines that pair well with the meal, and their cocktail selection is equally robust.

The ambiance is just the right level of rustic. You can be seated indoors if it is "Chicago weather," but if the sun is bright, the patio is well apportioned, the seating is comfortable and the umbrellas give the right quality of shade to shield the eyes of all diners. The decor pulls you just far enough off of the busy streets to briefly transport you away, looking up into the sky above and feeling for a moment like you're not really in Chicago. No... you're not in Corinth, sadly, but enjoy a moment to pretend.

The staff is attentive, and the music is just light enough not to be oeverwhelming. Staff is knowledgeable of the food and can offer good suggestions. The selection is just broad enough for a good sampling for all who like Greek.

For the price? Excellent. You will pay, but you will be fed like a king, and you will walk away full and...

So sad that I can NOT recommend this place. Why sad , you ask ?? Well, because it is a very appealing restaurant visually and the service was prompt and attentive. BUT , the first warning sign was when the bread basket was brought. LOOKED good , but wasn’t wa Spanakopitakia $10 Spinach & feta phyllo dough triangles rm at all and not very fresh. Ok tho. We were THRILLED with the Shrimp Athena appetizer tho and excited in anticipation of our main course. Obviously freshly prepared, served on a sizzling skillet and absolutely DELICIOUS. Pretty much downhill from there. The Combo Platter , $21, seemed an appropriate way to sample the fare , with Pastitsio, dolmades, leg of lamb, rice & potato. What a disappointment! First off , all items were barely warm. Being a retired restauranteur, I am of the hot food served hot and cold dishes cold school. I tried the rice first. Lukewarm rice with tomato sauce that would have been ok at proper temp. The lamb slices were bland and a little tough. And luke warm only !! Pastitsio , one of my favorites, MIGHT’VE been ok IF served hot , but it also didn’t seem fresh . The dolmades were the only item that was palatable and only slightly warmer. I was compelled to send it back. In its stead I tried the Spanakopitakia $10 (Spinach & feta phyllo dough triangles. ) I was encouraged when it came out on a hot dish , but sadly it was an illusion. The inside was barely warm and not too tasty either. We agreed that the Costco version we’ve served and enjoyed at home was way better.

The Missus had opted to order the gyro platter , opining that in an authenticGreek restaurant, it would be exceptional. Nope ! The pita was tough ; hard to cut with a knife. And I’ll admit that the meat , while also delivered barely warm , WAS tasty but the sauce was just ok .

It seemed that , other than the excellent Shrimp Athena, the other dishes had been prepared well in advance and barely warmed before it was served . Really...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Athena Greek Restaurant in the heart of Chicago, and I must say it was a delightful experience that left a lasting impression. From the moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the warm and inviting ambiance, which instantly transported me to the beautiful landscapes of Greece.

The restaurant's interior décor featured a tasteful combination of rustic charm and contemporary elegance, creating a comfortable and cozy atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. The staff greeted me with genuine smiles and courteous gestures, making me feel right at home.

The menu at Athena is an impressive culinary journey through the flavors of Greece, offering an array of traditional and modern dishes. I started my meal with their Saganaki appetizer, and it was a cheesy goodness that set the perfect tone for what was to come. The selection of entrees was extensive, and I opted for the Combo Plate. The meal was a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

What truly impressed me about Athena was the attention to detail in the presentation of each dish. The plating was exquisite, demonstrating the chef's commitment to both taste and aesthetics. It felt like an artful experience that elevated the dining affair beyond just a meal.

While the majority of my visit to Athena was wonderful, I would say that there is room for improvement. However, considering the quality of the food, service, and ambiance, it was undoubtedly a worthwhile treat for a special occasion or a night out with loved ones.

In conclusion, Athena Greek Restaurant offers a delightful Greek culinary experience in the heart of Chicago. With its inviting ambiance, authentic flavors, and exceptional service, it's a great choice for those seeking a taste of Greece right in the Windy City. I will undoubtedly be returning to relish in their delicious dishes and warm...