Kellari Taverna
Looking to depart on a gastronomic journey that will transport you to the streets of Greece, without leaving the heart of the Big Apple? Look no further than Kellari Taverna. Since 2005, the restaurant has won over locals and tourist alike. This family-owned and operated Mediterranean-style eatery pays homage to its Greek heritage by offering an authentic culinary experience through its traditional fare, extensive selection of Greek wines and welcoming vibe that keeps patrons coming back for more.
As you enter the taverna, you’ll step into a warm dining room with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light. It’s a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary design. The restaurant’s carefully crafted menu is a celebration of the Mediterranean region with a modern twist that brings a new perspective to Greek cuisine. Guests can enjoy mouthwatering dishes like the Aegean surf & turf—which is grilled prawns paired with a 6oz petit filet mignon served on a bed of garden vegetables—or the homemade potato gnocchi topped with spinach, feta and almond nutmeg sauce. With a focus on whole fish and authentic Greek cuisine, Kellari Taverna takes pride in procuring sustainable seafood, meats and produce, sourcing numerous fresh ingredients directly from nearby farmers’ markets. Aside from its wide selection of Greek wines, Kellari also boasts a tempting array of expertly crafted cocktails, including the refreshing cucumber mojito, the beloved espresso martini and classic drinks like cosmopolitans, margaritas and negronis. Exploring the dessert menu, you’ll find treats to excite your taste buds. There are some fantastic choices, like the mouthwatering warm sokolata with creamy goat-milk vanilla ice cream, as well as classic favorites like baklava and galaktoboureko.
Despite the term “taverna” traditionally meaning a small Greek café, Kellari offers spacious rooms for birthdays, anniversaries and corporate events. The Rose Room, ideal for 40+ people with
presentation screens, is a standout for business affairs. The cozy K Room suits 20 guest and the versatile Wine Room can seat up to 70, or 120 standing when combined with the Rose Room, perfect for business cocktail parties. Coveted outdoor space accommodates around 25 guests for al fresco events.
The father and son duo behind Kellari Taverna, Starvros and Andreas Aktipis, have achieved prominence in the competitive NYC restaurant scene with their celebrated restaurant. Since opening its doors, Kellari has been renowned for its authentic Greek cuisine and fresh seafood in Midtown Manhattan. Their success story is a testament to their hard work, perseverance and dedication to their craft. After gaining experience at various New York City restaurants, Stavros decided to take the plunge and open his own establishment. The younger Andreas brings innovation to the family business, blending Greek traditions with broader Mediterranean influences. The Aktipis family is supported by a generously talented team.
Executive Chef Chef Vasiliki Vourliotaki creates fire in the kitchen by infusing classic flavors with a modern twist into seasonal menus. Her expertise in combining Greek cuisine and contemporary cooking techniques results in a refreshing approach to traditional Greek taverna favorites.
Driving innovation and excellence daily, General Manager Michael Coll has propelled Kellari to new heights, solidifying its long-lasting reputation as one of the city’s premier Greek restaurants. His unwavering passion for hospitality permeates every aspect of his work, making him a standout leader in the hospitality industry, driven by dedication to his craft and his team.
Whether it’s the bottomless mimosa brunch pre fixe or the pre theater dinner menu that catches your eye, this Greek culinary escape with the finest hospitality awaits you seven days a week. Opa!
