Elea: An Authentic Greek Taverna Experience on the Upper West Side

Elea Introduce

Located on the vibrant Upper West Side of New York City, Elea offers a truly authentic and elevated Greek dining experience. With a name that means "olive" in ancient Greek, this restaurant embodies the heart and soul of Mediterranean cuisine. Elea is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination that transports you to the Greek islands with its cozy, romantic, and upscale atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner, a lively brunch, or a memorable gathering with friends and family, Elea provides a sophisticated yet welcoming setting. It's a place where traditional Greek flavors are celebrated with modern care and a touch of New York elegance.

Elea is conveniently situated at 217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024, USA, in the heart of the Upper West Side. The restaurant's location makes it easily accessible for anyone in the neighborhood and beyond. While street parking can be a challenge in this busy area, there are paid parking garages nearby. For those using public transit, the restaurant is just a short walk from multiple subway lines, making it a breeze to get to. The establishment offers outdoor seating, creating a charming al fresco dining option when the weather is nice, adding to the European feel of the experience.

Elea provides a comprehensive range of services designed to accommodate various dining needs and occasions.

Dine-in: The restaurant offers a beautiful and inviting indoor dining space with a bar, perfect for an intimate dinner or a gathering with a group. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for brunch and dinner on weekends.
Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal on the restaurant's outdoor patio, which provides a lovely setting for a romantic evening or a casual get-together.
Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy Elea's cuisine at home, a convenient takeout service is available.
Delivery: Elea also provides no-contact delivery, so you can have their delicious food brought directly to your door.
Catering & Private Events: With a private dining room and spacious basement, Elea is a fantastic venue for private or semi-private events, whether it's for a family gathering or a corporate party. They can accommodate both seated and standing receptions.

Elea stands out in New York City's vibrant dining scene for a number of compelling reasons.

Upscale and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out. The decor, featuring white-washed walls and a prominent bar, evokes a sense of Greek-island charm.
Impressive Beverage Program: The restaurant is known for its great cocktails, an extensive wine list, and excellent coffee. The bar onsite is a popular centerpiece where you can enjoy a drink before your meal.
Highlights of the Menu: Diners consistently praise the quality of the food. Standout dishes mentioned in reviews include the grilled lamb chops, a variety of delicious small plates, and the five-spread tasting platter, with the Scordalia (almond-garlic spread) receiving special recognition.
Inclusive Offerings: Elea caters to a diverse crowd, offering plenty of healthy and vegetarian options, which is a pleasant surprise for many. The menu also includes small plates, making it great for sharing and tasting a variety of dishes.
Attentive Service: The staff is often described as welcoming, friendly, and attentive, ensuring a fantastic dining experience for guests. Servers are happy to provide recommendations and ensure every need is met.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible with an accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it welcoming to all patrons.

For reservations, inquiries, or to book a private event, you can contact Elea directly.

Contact Information:

Address: 217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 369-9800

What is truly worth choosing at Elea is the opportunity to savor high-quality, authentic Greek food in an elegant setting. The menu is a journey through traditional Greek flavors with modern execution. For starters, the Tasting of 5 Spreads is a must-try, giving you a chance to sample a range of delicious dips like Hummus, Tzatziki, and the standout Scordalia, all served with warm pita. Another favorite among patrons is the Sesame Feta, a small plate that offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

When it comes to main courses, the Lamb Chops and Chicken Souvlaki are consistently praised for being flavorful and cooked to perfection. Seafood lovers will be impressed with the selection of fresh fish, including the Lavraki Filet and the Grilled Octopus, which a customer review highlighted as "absolutely delicious." The menu also features other compelling dishes like the Shrimp Orzotto and the Moussaka, showcasing the depth of Greek comfort food. While desserts like the chocolate cake and Portokalopita are recommended, some reviews suggest that the Baklava and cheesecake might not be to everyone’s taste, so it’s worth asking your server for a recommendation.

Overall, Elea offers a complete and memorable dining experience. The combination of a romantic, upscale atmosphere, a stellar menu with a wide range of options (including many vegetarian dishes), and a great beverage list makes it a perfect choice for a special date night or a fun group dinner. The fact that they take reservations is a huge plus, helping you plan your visit without the worry of a long wait. With its dedication to quality and warm hospitality, Elea is a Greek gem that stands out even in a city known for its incredible dining scene.

Elea Menu

Lunch Entrees
Chicken Souvlaki $22.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Lavraki Filet $33.00
grilled Mediterranean seabass, ,sauteed wild greens
Solomos $33.00
grilled salmon, lentil salad, orange vinaigrette
Elea Burger $19.00
Brandt ground beef, smoked cheese, tzatziki, greek fries.
Lamb Chops $36.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Shrimp Orzotto $28.00
shrimp, saffron, orzo pasta
Winter Garden Risotto $28.00
porcini, oyster & black truffle mushrooms
Lamb Kebab $23.00
Ground Lamb skewered, red onion, yogurt paprika tomato sauce, Greek oregano fries

Small Plates
Sesame Feta $19.00
Gigantes $16.00
Baked giant lima beans, crumbled feta.
Kounoupidi $19.00
Cauliflower fritters with greek honey and currants.
Kids Pasta $15.00
Halloumi $19.00
Sesame crusted feta, dried figs, pink peppercorns, honey.
Spanakopita $19.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.
Cheese Saganaki $14.00
Sardeles $22.00
Grilled Portuguese Sardines, eggplant caviar
Mussels Saganaki $21.00
P.E.I. mussels, feta, lemon, scallions, white wine, Mediterranean herbs
Chicken Souvlaki $24.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Fried Calamari $21.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Fire Course 1 $0.00
Calamari Grilled $21.00
lightly fried with our classic tomato sauce,
Octopus $28.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.
Mixed Olives $12.00
Keftedes $21.00
Greek style meatballs with feta sauce.
Gr. Shrimp $25.00
Wild gulf shrimp, shaved fennel & frisse salad, winter radish, mint and cara cara orange

Brunch Small Plates
Fakes $15.00
Gigantes $16.00
Baked giant lima beans, crumbled feta.
Greek Spreads $16.00
hummus, tzatziki ,tyrokafteri, grilled pita
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) ingredients: chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Grilled Shrimp $25.00
Wild gulf shrimp, shaved fennel & frisse salad, winter radish, mint and cara cara orange
Fried Calamari $18.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Tzatziki $10.00
Allergies: Dairy, Allium, vinegar (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Greek Yogurt (cows’ milk), cucumber, garlic, olive oil, red vinegar, and black pepper.
Crudite $4.00
Scordalia $10.00
Allergies: Allium, gluten, nuts, vinegar (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Almonds, bread, garlic, canola oil, olive oil, garnished with almonds-garlic & parsley.
Halloumi $19.00
lemon marmalade and black sesame
Spanakopita $18.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.
Octopus $27.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.
Fava $10.00
Allergies: Citrus, Allium (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yellow Split pea, onions, lemons, herbs, Olive oil
Melitzanosalata $10.00
Allergies: Allium, eggs, citrus, capsicum (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, garlic, scallions, herbs, lemon, vinegar, and olive oil.
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Allergies: Allium, Dairy, Capsicum (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Feta, serrano peppers, red bell peppers, garlic.
Tuna Tartare $25.00
Yellowfin tuna, avocado, yogurt, mango, chives, kataifi, sesame oil
Taramosalata $10.00
Allergies: allium, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Roe of grey mullet fish, lemon, vinegar, onions, canola and olive oils.

Brunch Entrees
Greek Omelette $18.00
spinach, manouri cheese, roasted potato, green salad
Tsoureki French Toast $17.00
fig marmalade
Poached Egg $4.00
Wild Mushroom Risotto $28.00
porcini, oyster & black truffle mushrooms
Fried Egg $4.00
Scrambled Eggs $8.00
Kids Pasta $15.00
Steak & Eggs $35.00
12oz Sirloin, sunny side up eggs, Greek oregano fries
Shrimp Orzotto $28.00
shrimp, saffron, orzo pasta
Lamb Kebab $23.00
Ground Lamb skewered, red onion, yogurt paprika tomato sauce, Greek oregano fries
Solomos $33.00
grilled salmon, lentil salad, orange vinaigrette
Crab Cake Benedict $27.00
poached eggs over crabcakes, roasted potato, green salad
Lamb Chops $36.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Lavraki Filet $33.00
grilled Mediterranean seabass, ,sauteed wild greens
Chicken Souvlaki $22.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Avocado Toast $17.00
poached egg, tomato, feta cheese
Elea Burger $19.00
Brandt ground beef, smoked cheese, tzatziki, greek fries.
Pancakes $18.00
butter, maple syrup, sour cherry
Smoked Salmon Benedict $20.00
roasted potato, green salad
Shaksuka $19.00
baked eggs, tomato, peppers, feta cheese, griled bread

Pikilia
Tzatziki $10.00
Tzatziki greek strained yogurt, garlic, cucumber.
Small Tzatziki $5.00
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Spicy pepper, feta spread.
3 Spreads $22.00
Fava $10.00
Allergies: Citrus, Allium (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yellow Split pea, onions, lemons, herbs, Olive oil
Scordalia $10.00
Allergies: Allium, gluten, nuts, vinegar (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Almonds, bread, garlic, canola oil, olive oil, garnished with almonds-garlic & parsley.
5 Spreads $32.00
Crudite $4.00
Melitzanosalata $10.00
Allergies: Allium, eggs, citrus, capsicum (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, garlic, scallions, herbs, lemon, vinegar, and olive oil.
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: Sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Taramosalata $10.00
Allergies: allium, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Roe of grey mullet fish, lemon, vinegar, onions, canola and olive oils.

Dessert
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our Creamy Cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Baklava Rolls $14.00
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
Portokalopita $13.00
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.

Dessert
Fruit Platter $22.00
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
Fire Dessert $0.00
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.
Baklava Rolls $14.00
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our creamy cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Portokalopita $13.00

Sides
Lemon Potatoes $12.00
Allergies: Allium, Citrus, Mustard (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yukon Potatoes, lemon Juice, onion, garlic, Dijon Mustard, Herbs
Greek Fries $12.00
Allergies: none Ingredients: Potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Sauteed Spinach $12.00
Allergies: Citrus (can be removed) Ingredients: Sauteed spinach, lemon juice.
Asparagus $12.00
Allergies: Dairy (can be done without) Ingredients: Sauteed Brussel sprouts, butter
Horta $12.00
Allergies: Citrus (can be removed) Ingredients: Steamed Swiss Chard, Ladolemono
Side Feta $6.00

Brunch Salads
Watermelon Salad $19.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese
Prasini Salad $17.00
Allergies: citrus, dijon mustard, eggs, dairy, allium (can be removed) ingredients: mixed greens (boston lettuce, escarole and frisee) scallions, mixed herbs, mizithra cheese. vinaigrette-artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.
Horiatiki Salad $22.00
Vine ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, peppers, olives, and arahova feta.
Elea Salad $21.00
Gluten, allium, dairy

Entrees
Prime Filet Mignon $55.00
Brussels sprouts , roasted potatoes, mavrodaphne Bordelaise
Organic Chicken $32.00
Organic roasted chicken with lemon potatoes.
Lamb Chops $55.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Seafood Orzotto $36.00
Shrimp, mussels, clams, saffron, orzo.
Short Rib Youvetsi $38.00
Xinomavro braised short rib, kefalograviera cheese, and baked orzo.
Tsipoura $37.00
Greek grilled white fish, firm, full flavor.
Summer Garden $28.00
baked tomato, eggplant & pepper stuffed with Arborio rice, pine nuts, golden raisins, fresh herbs
Moussaka $31.00
Traditional casserole layered with beef, potato, eggplant, béchamel sauce
Kids Pasta $15.00
Bakaliaros $39.00
pan seared wild cod, fennel puree, carrots, asparagus, Assyrtiko thyme emulsion
Chicken Souvlaki $24.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Sea Bass Special $53.00
traditional casserole layered with beef, potato, eggplant, béchamel
Solomos $35.00
Grilled loch duarte salmon, ‘prasorizo,’ arborio rice pilaf, leeks & dill
Lavraki $38.00
Grilled mediterranean seabass.

Lunch Sides
Horta $9.00
Allergies: citrus (can be removed) ingredients: steamed swiss chard, ladolemono
Green Salad $9.00
Greek Fries $9.00
Allergies: none ingredients: potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Roasted Potates $9.00
Mixed Horta $9.00
Truffle Fries $11.00

Brunch Sides
Greek Fries $9.00
Allergies: none ingredients: potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Side Bacon $9.00
Roasted Potates $9.00
Sauteed Spinach $9.00
Side Spinach $9.00
Truffle Fries $11.00
Sautéed Greens $9.00
Horta $9.00
Allergies: citrus (can be removed) ingredients: steamed swiss chard, ladolemono
Side Smoked Salmon $10.00
Green Salad $9.00

Lunch Small Plates
Fire Apps $0.00
Tuna Tartare $25.00
Yellowfin tuna, avocado, yogurt, mango, chives, kataifi, sesame oil
Fakes $15.00
Tzatziki $10.00
Allergies: Dairy, Allium, vinegar (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Greek Yogurt (cows’ milk), cucumber, garlic, olive oil, red vinegar, and black pepper.
Crudite $4.00
Fried Calamari $18.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Greek Spreads $16.00
hummus, tzatziki ,tyrokafteri, grilled pita
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: Sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Octopus $27.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.
Grilled Shrimp $25.00
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Allergies: Allium, Dairy, Capsicum (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Feta, serrano peppers, red bell peppers, garlic.
Gigantes $16.00
Spanakopita $18.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.

Dessert
Fruit Platter $22.00
3 Scoops $9.00
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
Portokalopita $13.00
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our Creamy Cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.
Baklava Rolls $14.00

Salads
Watermelon Salad $19.00
baby arugula, Arahova feta, walnuts, serrano-lime emulsion
Prasini Salad $18.00
Mixed Greens (Boston lettuce, Escarole and Frisee) Scallions, mixed Herbs, Mizithra Cheese. Vinaigrette-Artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.
Horiatiki $23.00
Tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, kalamata olives, and Feta cheese.
Lahanosalata $22.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese

Lunch Salads
Watermelon Salad $19.00
Lahanosalata $20.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese
Elea Salad $21.00
Gluten, allium, dairy
Horiatiki Salad $21.00
Vine ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, peppers, olives, and arahova feta.
Prasini Salad $17.00
Allergies: citrus, dijon mustard, eggs, dairy, allium (can be removed) ingredients: mixed greens (boston lettuce, escarole and frisee) scallions, mixed herbs, mizithra cheese. vinaigrette-artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.

Elea Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Private dining room
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd
Groups
Locals

Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Free street parking
Paid parking garage
Paid street parking
Parking

Elea Photos

Elea Location

Elea

New York New York County New York West 85th Street

217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024, USA

Elea Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 985 user reviews.

brunchspreadsshort riblamb chopsgrilled octopusorzottosmall platesskordaliatuna tartarlychee martini

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This restaurant is so delicious. The feta red chili pepper spread was our favorite. Also the lamb chops were great along with the cucumber chips. The only dessert we liked was the chocolate mouse thing. The cheesecake is too light. The baklava was too dry.
June 13 · Andrew Hazelrigg
Absolute fab experience. Reservations recommended on weekends, plenty of seating outdoors and indoors with a spacious basement perfect for family seating.Vegetarians also have plenty of options which was surprising!What to order: Tasting of 5 Spreads ($32) - Skordalia stands out, Grilled Halloumi ($18), Gigantes ($16), Asparagus ($12) - all cooked to perfection!Non Vegetarians won't go wrong with Lamb Chops ($55) or Grilled Shrimp ($25).Service was absolutely fantastic but our server Arthur was friendly and attentive. Very welcoming and friendly staff.We will be visiting again with friends and family!
August 04 · Ameya Bhakay
I love Greek food, so I was excited to try this restaurant—and it did not disappoint! The portions were generous, and the food was delicious. I especially enjoyed the Kounoupidi—crispy cauliflower fritters.From the outside, the restaurant looked quite small, but once inside, we discovered a whole additional floor downstairs with plenty of seating. Despite being very busy, the atmosphere was lively and inviting, and the service was attentive. Overall, it was a great experience, and we’ll definitely be back!
February 18 · Olga NYC
We were in search of dinner after a day at the museum and we found Eléa via infatuation. Mediterranean is always a go to as it never disappoints and the reviews on Elea looked great.Well they did not disappoint, it was the perfect place to walk in with a group of 7 including children which was amazing and hard to come by. The venue is very spacious and has two floors. The space is beautiful and very inviting, as if you’re being transported to Greece with the all white decor and beautiful flowers at the entrance.I was most excited to try the elea chips and the tuna tartar and they were both amazing!!! The fried zucchini and taziki had the perfect taste ask texture. The crunch that came with the tuna tartar was unlike anything I’ve ever had and was the perfect combination.The entree we opted for was the sea bass which was good but I will say the slight mustard flavor threw us off a bit but nonetheless still delicious.The kids got chicken Slovakia and French fries and they loved it. The only small complaint I had was that the drinks were not consistent, we ordered a few lychee martinis and each time the taste was a bit different.
March 30 · leslie delacruz
Fabulous restaurant. Beautiful and airy, many options for delicious food and drink, and kind staff. In addition to the photographed food I highly recommend the elea chips appetizer and the dips, particularly the Tzatziki which is some of the best I’ve ever had. The hummus is pasable for the other better dips. My major complaint is that the chairs inside and upstairs were extremely uncomfortable - I was shifting the entire meal.
July 28 · Rachel Rosenberg