Kellari Taverna

Nestled in the heart of New York City’s vibrant Theater District, Kellari Taverna is a dazzling Greek and Mediterranean restaurant that masterfully blends authentic flavors with an upscale dining experience. From the moment you step inside at 19 W 44th St, you are enveloped by an inviting ambiance rich with smooth jazz tones and an elegant yet warm décor, making it an impeccable choice for special occasions, romantic dinners, or a sophisticated night out with friends.

The culinary offerings here are nothing short of a sensory delight. Kellari Taverna’s menu is a vibrant tribute to Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, bursting with both traditional classics and inventive dishes. Start your meal with the tender, char-grilled Octopodi served alongside creamy hummus, roasted peppers, and capers — a dish that perfectly balances smokiness with fresh zest. The Fried Calamari and Tuna Tartare, featuring sushi-grade tuna layered over an avocado base, offer fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken the palate and set the tone for what’s ahead.

Seafood aficionados will find themselves spoiled for choice with standout plates like the Whole Lavraki, a beautifully grilled Mediterranean seabass that melts in your mouth, and the indulgent Lobster Souvlaki that elevates traditional kabobs to luxurious heights. For meat lovers, the Grilled Lamb Chops (Paidakia) with lemon potatoes and asparagus deliver robust, savory satisfaction, while the Za'atar crusted Solomos salmon impresses with its aromatic spice and perfectly sautéed greens.

Vegetarians are thought of just as well, with dishes such as the Wild Mushroom Kritharoto offering deep, earthy richness, and the Vegan Moussaka—a creative layering of vegan beef, eggplant, zucchini, and almond milk béchamel—that brings traditional comfort food to a plant-based realm without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Diners often rave about the seamless blend of carefully crafted cuisine and impeccable service. As one guest shared, the luxurious atmosphere “reeks of class and taste,” complemented by a menu that is undoubtedly high-quality yet thoughtfully curated. Another visitor recounted celebrating a birthday here and being swept away not only by the refined food but also by the heartfelt ambiance, where old friends and new companions alike can revel in the joy of exceptional dining.

Kellari Taverna is not just a restaurant; it’s a refined culinary journey transporting you to the Mediterranean shores without leaving Midtown Manhattan. Whether you're indulging in a Seafood Tower piled high with fresh oysters, crab cakes, and tuna tartare, savoring a glass of champagne alongside crispy zucchini chips, or contemplating the layers of honey-soaked Baklava for dessert, the experience is nothing less than enchanting. This is a place where every bite bursts with authenticity, every setting hums with inviting warmth, and every visit leaves you wanting to return.