If you are looking for the ideal place to enjoy a terrific meal just steps from Broadway, this lovely Greek restaurant may just be the place for you. The atmosphere is festive and the ingredients are sourced from local farmers’ markets throughout the year. The highlight is undoubtedly the incredible selection of fresh fish that you are welcome to examine before you choose the perfect main course. The service is first-rate and your server can help you navigate Kellari Taverna’s extensive menu. A special pre-theatre option is also available. And Kellari Taveran is also a terrific place for a celebration. Greek food is best when shared with a group of your favorite people.
It is advisable to begin your dinner with an offering from the creative cocktail list. Why not try “Homer’s daquiri,” a tasty daquiri that features Kleos mastiha, rum, lime and mint or “Fig on the mule,” a oncoction of black fig infused vodka, lime and ginger beer. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list featuring Greek wines from across the Greek isles, including a large selection of Assyrtiko vintages.
The raw bar starters include salmon crudo, oysters and paddlefish caviar. Sharing is encouraged and the “sharing plates” feature an outstanding sesame spanakopita, eggplant and zucchini chips that are hard to stop eating and grilled calamari. You can also begin your meal with classics such as chicken egg and lemon soup (“avgolemono soupa”) or a Greek salad dressed with premium Greek olive oil.
As mentioned, the fresh fish is really one of the best parts of the menu. The selection changes with market conditions, but you can expect to find “lavaki,” (Mediterranean Sea bass), “tsipoura,” (Mediterranean Sea bream), lobster, Mediterranean white snapper and Dover sole. Each selection is sold by the pound and your server can make recommendations based on your preferences, and your appetite. If you are in the mood for meat, the lamb chops are served with lemon potatoes and are one of the more popular options. The filet mignon can be paired with a side of your choice and the free- range chicken arrives with a feta mouse and shishito peppers.
And, of course, you cannot end any Greek meal without ordering at least a few desserts. The baklava is made with both walnuts and almonds and is terrific. Another specialty is the kormos, a log made of dark and milk chocolate biscuits, which at first glance looks like salami, but tastes incredible.
Kellari Taverana is always looking for a reason to welcome guests and there are special menus for Restaurant Week, Happy Hour, Brunch, Greek Easter, Mother’s Day and more.