Who knew that a quick trip to Greece requires only a few stops on the 6 train to the Upper East Side, Manhattan? Whether you’re making a quick trip to New York City or reside in one of the five boroughs, consider Korali Estiatorio for a slice of Greece in the inner city, where Gregori Politis, owner and 20 year hospitality veteran has put his stamp on the traditional Greek cuisine.

Using authentic recipes and ingredients sourced from Greece, Korali Estiatorio has been called the Greek Island of Mykonos, turned restaurant, and it’s not hard to see why. With meze (small plates) options that range from baked stuffed calamari to crab cakes with roasted pepper aioli, you’re sure to get full from the appetizers alone. If you’re not into seafood, then opt for the Melitzanosalata (char grilled eggplant) or Xtipiti (spicy feta dip) to have a taste of Greece that wasn’t sourced from the sea.

Assuming you still have room for an entrée, Korali does an amazing job at providing an abundance of good Greek eats. If your palette isn’t ready for lamb kebabs or wild monkfish, items such as roasted lemon chicken and grilled Scottish salmon should do the trick. To finish it off, a simple dessert of Greek yogurt or something as extravagant as Loukoumades (greek donuts) are sure to have you making your next reservation.

Korali also didn’t hesitate to add to their Grecian ambiance with their décor. The interior, designed by Yianna Skordas of Skordas Design Studio, purposely conjures the feelings of Mykonos with white-washed walls and high ceilings. With its sea-side cliff restaurant vibes, good luck remembering that you’re in the concrete jungle at Korali.

By Monique Wise