Avra

Ok-ambience is fine but exorbitantly priced brunch menu. Poach a few eggs at home will be more ideal.
Don't attempt to ask for more bread either.

Pros: live band

Cons: brunch menu not recommended

Posted 05/24/09

All wait staff and manager's were wonderful and the service was outstanding, great food and a great range of choices. A must try for dinner or lunch with inside or outside option in eating.

Posted 05/19/09

I mean seriously... horrendous. my food didn't come to our table of 4 at the other time as the same 3. Or ever. Even worse, cocky waiter says "it will be 7 minutes". 25 minutes later my husband, sister and brother in law are done with their main course, with mine nowhere in sight. The waiter has the gall to say "oh, it never came?" like I'm to blame. He wanted to bring me a FOUL greek yogurt dessert as a consolation prize. Should I have felt lucky? To add insult to injury, nothing, not ONE thing, comped on the bill. Poor excuse for greek food (nigerian prawns and maine lobster? really?), positively barbaric manners, and i will most certainly go out of my way to steer every manhannite i know away from this measly little engine that couldn't.

Pros: if you love attitude

Cons: oh so many

Posted 04/29/09

I went back for the second time, after the waiter called "honey" the first time, because I really enjoyed the food.We were seated all the way in the back,closed to the bathroom and close to a large party!! The waitress came, never smiled, took our wine order, opened the bottle and that`s about it!! All she did was filling our white wine glasses!! We finished the bottle even before we were done with the apps!! Another waiter took our order and never worried about us! So we had to wave to get someone attention!! so the service really sucked!! Again!! The food is great!!

Pros: Very fresh seafood

Cons: Service

Posted 04/13/09

A truly disappointing experience. My girlfriend and I were intrigued by the beautiful restaurant we past on 48th, but were greeted with rolling eyes and attitude at only 9 pm. I should probably add that we both put ourselves through college as servers in a 3 1/2 star resort. Once our wine was served, we nearly had to throw something to be noticed, and our water was not refilled a single time. A true let down. The food was sub par. The menu indicates that the fish are deboned, but my girlfriends meal was riddled with bones. I have never once written a bad review, being a server makes you very understanding of the pains and trials that servers endure, but this experience was that bad.

Posted 03/03/09

What a sad evening. Second time there. First was in the summer and the waiter was excellent and the sardines were great so I brought in clients from all over for dinner in late November. They embarrassed themselves. Service was terrible, the waitress was rude, forgot our sides, was absent. Food so was boring, no life, no passion, no quality. It's played.

Posted 12/28/08

The service was classic and elegant with a nice formal presentation.
Our server had an excellent knowledge of the menu and explained
our options, and also offered suggestions.
I loved the flexibility of the menu - switch appetizers for entree, adjusting portions, etc.. (when you go , you'll see)

I really enjoyed it can can't wait to go back
I was treated this last trip, so ........

Pros: service,food

Posted 10/17/08

Just awful... mediocre dishes for an over-rated dining experience.

Well, overall, there was a lack luster of service.

We had reservations for 6:30, for a party of three, and requested for a corner table, upon calling. Instead, we got the closest thing to the door, with the third person facing the entry so all the world could see what he was eating. l noticed that there were several available tables for the same number seating. So, I asked the hostess for a different table. She immediately said, we have nothing available. So, we asked them to move the third seat to against the entry, which would somewhat enclose our "eating circle."

From one plate to the next, they were pushy. This gave us the impression that it wasn't a 5-diamond experience, but a cheap Chinese restaurant that's constantly trying to get you out of the door and pay your bill ASAP.

One person didn't know what the other was doing, forgetting requests like lime or a sherry with dessert.

Lastly, or perhaps, I should have started with this. I couldn't even believe that they DIDN'T ASK "Does anyone have any allergies?" ...which is pretty standard for a restaurant of that gauge. I had to walk over to our table waiter (yes, I had to walk over because they never seemed to stick around long enough to listen or even noted that you were giving them the eye) and inform him that my friend had a nut allergy.

Oh, and if I may judged it strictly on the plate, it's still a one star.

First course: The sardeles was OK, absolutely nothing spectacular.

Second course: The octapodi was cooked well, but it was more distracting in flavour. ...And, that's not good!

Third course: I admit they do have the best dover sole. But, that's all.

Several people tell me that they've gone and had a better experience. All I have to say to that is... the mark of a good restaurant is consistency. Food and service should always be top notch, and I didn't find either on my visit.

Posted 09/17/08

What you read below is true - Great spot, especially if you can get a table NEAR the front, but not out on the sidewalk (too noisy for me, at least.) The interior is very well-executed, although the crowd and noise does take away from the serenity promised by the decor.
The Octopus is as good as they say,( but it's good at every Greek place, right?). You and your guest choose your fish (pay by the pound, and most filets are too much for one person - around 1.5 - 2 lbs, so you really need to team up) , get it grilled , done. Not fancy, but fish shouldn't be. If it's fresh, all that's needed is a grill, and some lemon. Service is not exactly relaxed, but adequate. And it's easily 15% overpriced.
Doesn't stop anyone from going back again and again, though!

Posted 09/17/08

Absolutely amazing. The best Greek Food in NYC!!!!!!!!!!! Excellent service. I've been to Avra for lunch and dinner several times.

Posted 08/14/08

Food is good, fun atmosphere. A bit pricy. Best enjoyed off hours, when they aren't too busy: late afternoon , not a weekend evening.

Posted 05/06/08

Came for a birthday party last week. Our waiter recommended we try the whole fish from the grill. This was the best seafood I've had in a LONG time. The branzino was so mild, and it was filleted right at the table, so you could see all the fresh herbs that were stuffed in the fish for grilling. It's served with a small side of lemon olive oil, which made for such a healthy, simple flavor. Beautiful interior, great affordable wine. Definitely coming back!

Pros: Fresh Seafood, Beautiful decor

Posted 04/02/08

Lunch at Avra on a nice, sunny day was a real treat. They have a prix-lunch menu for 30 bucks which is a bit pricey. However, the area is in the pricey side. You have a good variety to choose from on the prix menu. I chose the grill squid for 1 course and lamb kebob w/fries and yogurt. The squid was made to perfection. But the lamb was so greasy. I ended up eating only 1 of 2 kebobs and throwing the rest out. There is dessert - choice of cookies or cake. Our waiter was nice and we were seated promptly

Pros: professional waiter staff

Cons: greasy food

Posted 07/22/07

A wonderful experience, the Loup de Mer is a must ! We've been going to Avra for a few month now and keep going back with the same gastronomic pleasure. We had our wedding lunch organised at Avra on 7-7-7, we can only thank Arturo and all his staff for making it a perfect day for us !

Posted 07/15/07

It has to be one of the best seafood experience that I ever had. Very fresh. I love the grilled octopus! It is the best I have ever had. We got married last year in Greece and wasn't too impressed with the food there. Now I know what we missed!!!

Just feel good knowing that I don't have to travel far to get some great seafood. You guys are the best!

Pros: Great dishes; very fresh; lively environment

Cons: A bit on the pricy side

Posted 05/17/07

I took my brother and girlfriend here for a late lunch and was very pleasantly surprised, despite the place being packed--we were seated within minutes, despite a line of waiting patrons. I am not much of a midtown fan (with a few exceptions) when it comes to dining, but loved Avra. Think Milos or Thalassa, but with a much deeper menu. Perfect cheese & olive plate, Stuffed Grilled Octopi were fantastic, my salmon wrapped in grape leaves was new, interesting and delicious, brother's swordfish was perfectly cooked and seasoned well. Assortment of desserts (to appease my girlfriend's sweet-tooth) were all amazing. For a fraction of a second, I thought our server wasn't going to come over, but as soon as i lifted my head to look for him, he was there and remained attentive the rest of the meal. Not inexpensive, but you won't spend what you would at Milos. Avra is a very lively restaurant with amazing authentic Greek cuisine and fine service.

Pros: lively atmosphere, amazing food

Cons: couldn't find any

Posted 03/29/07

We walked in on a Friday night without reservations and were seated promptly. The restaurant was buzzing with couples, families, businessmen and singles. There were two couches and a table in the small bar area that we asked to eat at. Although, I do not think this is a normal request they were happy to accomodate us. The atmosphere was relaxing, the lights were dimmed just right and we had a view of the beautiful falling snow outside. We began with three dips (eggplant, yogurt/cucumber, and fetta with roasted red pepper). Each one had its own unique flavor, the ingredients were fresh and the serving size was generous. The main course which was a wild alaskan salmon wrapped in grape leaves served with roasted vegetables was simply the best I have ever had. The flavor was outstanding, the portion was generous and the presentation was inviting. My husband had the tuna which was served exactly to his liking, rare!
The only drawback was the service. Although pleasant and accomodating, it was a bit slow. We had a difficult time getting our waiters attention and when we were ready to leave it took quite a long time to get the bill. However, that being said If you are looking for a place to relax, not feel rushed and have a great meal at a reasonable price then this is a place worth visiting.

Pros: Enticing Menu Choices, Generous Portions, Great Location

Cons: Slow Service

Posted 03/17/07

I went here for lunch and ordered the crabcake burger. They were unlike a lot of crabcakes I am used to-- there were large pieces of fresh crab and less of the breading. The oregano fries it came with were alright, as it got cooler, they were quite cold. I also tried a piece of the lobster ravioli, you could really taste the lobster. Can't really come here on a regular basis though, its pretty expensive!

Pros: fresh and tasty seafood

Cons: too pricey

Posted 01/19/07

went here for lunch and it was still very pricey -- we didn't even have drinks! the food was very good but very pricey. make sure you like seafood, this isn't your stereotypical greek restaurant!

Pros: ambience, seafood

Cons: price

Posted 11/19/06

We met my parents for Sunday Brunch today. They had indoor and outsoor seating. We set on outside off the street and it was a wonderful way to have a meal. They served a bread basket with corn muffins and crusty bread. The butter was made with fogs, a sweet cherry jam, and olives were also served. The champagne brunch is a bargain and includes a a choice of a few alcohol drinks or fresh juice. The bellini was really good. We had 3 different entrees and enjoyed them all. The bloody marys had a spciy kick and were also very good. The sides of bacon and candian bacon were all a decent size. The server made sure we were addressed at all timer but never too intrusive. The jazz music was nice and we could still here ourselves talking. The menu had tradtional favorites with a twist. It is a Greek restaurant and also has another brunch menu with Greek faves. I would go here again for a nice meal. With tax (20%) was just under $100 and a good time. My parents enjoyed it and they can be hard to please!Coffee was extra however but only $2. The french toast was excellent and the party loved the poached eggs served in phyllo dough with spinach. Give them a try!

Pros: Nice Setting, Good Food, Very Good Service

Cons: Extra for Coffee. Otherwise none

Posted 07/22/06

My friends and I found this here on citysearch, and we decided to try this place. We called the place to make reservations for lunch, but the woman on the phone told us that reservations weren't necessary. When we arrived, she asked us if we made reservations, and gave us a look like we were stupid when she specifically told us they weren't necessary. However, we were seated promptly. The server was REALLY attentive, and answered any questions that we had. He was really polite, and he made us feel very comfortable that it felt like we were old friends. We all ordered something different, and we were all content with our food, except the dessert. The place is lovely, and gave off a very "homey" atmosphere. The only problem with this place is the prices, and unfortunately, will not be able to come often for that reason since it was just decent/average food. If the prices weren't so high, I'd go all the time because I really loved the server.

Pros: Service, Atmosphere

Cons: Prices

Posted 07/19/06

I am not sure what night the other reviewers went to Avra, but my experience was completely different. Avra is a really good restaurant. The fish selection was extensive and the food overall was outstanding. We went with a large group and had a great time. Everything from the appetizers to deserts were worth trying. The service is ok, nothing great but the food was worth it. Prices are a little high but I would definitely go back.

Pros: fish selection, food

Cons: service, price

Posted 04/17/06

Average food and below average service.
Fish with no flavor, desserts below average, and service very poor....

Posted 03/10/06

I used to eat here all the time for lunch and dinner since my office was so close. It was a few years ago and recently went back since I had such fond memories of the food and service. I have to say the bloom is off the rose. The food was average at best. The fish, was bland, tasteless and very disappointing. The service was good but rushed. I am sorry to say, this is not the Avra it once was and will not go back.

Posted 01/16/06

Their Sunday brunch is amazing, highly recommended! Our waiter was attentive and the food was great.

Posted 11/10/05

I went in for a Sunday brunch. I started the meal off with their fantastic bread, which comes with olives, a jam, and a sweet butter for dipping. I then had their "Greek toast" -- a vanilla-version of French toast with maple syrup and fresh blueberries and raspberries. It melts in your mouth. I also had some eggs and fries. The eggs were fluffy and perfect; the fries were covered in Oregano and were marvelously crunchy. They had plenty more on their menu. Service was attentive but not overbearing. All in all, a wonderful experience.

Posted 10/22/05

We had reservations for 6 people... but they overbooked the restaurant and we had to wait 45 minutes to be seated!! They squeezed us into a table meant for 4 or 5.

They have a ridiculous "family-style" way of ordering the fish. You order by the pound and then share with the whole table. The fish averaged between $23-$30 a pound. The Maine lobster was LITERALLY the cheapest thing on the menu!!!

When they brought us the white wine it was room temperature and awful!! We sent it back to get chilled!!

The fish took forever to come and was bland and tasteless- I couldn't finish it despite being starving.

We also had the lobster... but THEY OVERCOOKED IT. It was the WORST, chewy, rubbery lobster I've ever had. How could a seafood restaurant mess up Maine lobster?!

I don't recommend this restaurant AT ALL. Avoid at all costs!

Pros: Nice ambience

Cons: Bad service, Bad Food, Overpriced

Posted 08/11/05

I have come to Avra to impress a new business partner and had horrific service.
Party of 10, took us to the table as it was set for 6, standing at the table for 4 minutes till someone bothered to set it up for 10. Wine, didnt arrive till we finished appetizers as food for the main dish took well an hour to take, when I have got up and called the waiter to take them.. The main Dish, well our waiter miss calculated the fish size, so I shared one Fish with 3 people. I was embarrassed, upset and no matter that The food was great as I have gone there more then 10 times this year but NO more. Too bad Avra, you suck, you ruined one night for me.

Cons: Bad service, Hot, Bad service

Posted 07/25/05

Good - food and decor.
Bad - Waiters trying to con you by trying to make you buy more food that you can eat, nobody smiles and not are pleasent, pushy, opportunist and pompus.

Posted 05/27/05

I dined at Avra this New Years Eve and it was one of the most memorable and fantastic meals ever. When we arrived we were seated promptly and graciously. I started with the lobster bisque - amazing, with huge peices of lobster. Next, I had the filet which was seared to perfection and one of the largest filets I have EVER had HUGE. The dessert was chocolate molten cake which was also amazing. The only drawback is that we didn't get champagne until after midnight so we had to toast w our water glasses but even that faux paus was not enough to ruin the evening. Great music, great service, fabulous food. The price was a bit steap but we were there from 9:15 until after 1 am so I think it was worth it. The best New Years ever!

Pros: festive, great service, amazing food

Cons: expensive

Posted 01/30/05

In town on business, when asked to be seated by myself, you could feel the frustration in me taking up a table that would seat two people. Went ahead and ordered meal to go. Told it would be 15 minutes more like 40. Ordered humous and pita bread. Got humus and crusted bread. Chicken was good. Fries were cold. (Fries with chicken???) Had to go back to retrieve my credit card as well. Dont think I will go back unless I bring a friend and dine in.

Pros: Neat atmosphere

Posted 07/21/04

My husband & I wanted to try a new seafood place as we were all "grill"ed out. On a whim we ended up at Avra and had a wonderful evening dining with our friends. The service was friendly and present without being intrusive. The fish was wonderful we tried 3 different varieties and we found it to be fresh and tasty. Moderately expensive, but worth it.

Pros: great food

Posted 07/18/04

Excellent Greek food and great atmosphere. One of the only places in NYC where you can hand-select the fish that you want to grill. It was almost as good as Niko's restaurant in Naxos!

Pros: fresh fish, helpful waitstaff

Posted 04/03/04

(Ate there on Feb 14, 2003). Finally a reason to dine on the UES. Not only has it become my favorite Greek (above Molyvos, Milos, S'agapo) but it offers great seafood--fresh and varied. For starters, the grilled octapodi and stuffed calamari (with feta, tomatoes and herbs) were outstanding! Entrees of lupe de mare, dover sole (ask for fillet), and chilean sea bass (the BEST) were terrific! Don't forget to have dessert...sticky sweets of baklava, bougatsa and galactabouriko are not to be missed. Hurry, go you will not be disappointed!

Pros: Fresh Seafood, Authentic Greek, Dessert

Cons: Crowded

Posted 08/07/03

outstanding greek cuisine. delicious fish, octupus, loup de mare, and calamari. the standard 4 dip combo was fantastic. great atmosphere, good service a bit pricey but well worth it. would definetely go back..

Posted 08/03/03

Avra is a great midtown spot for lunch or dinner. The octapodi appetizer is a grilled gourmet sensation, its a must try for anyone who likes the eight legged sea creatures. The menu is a nice combination of greek favorites and fresh seafood, which is reinforced by the 'fish market like' display of whole fish in front of the kitchen. Great place to impressive your date with good food, even better place to impress your client on an expense account.

Posted 07/22/03

I ate there over the weekend and i loved it. the food is great, the room is nice, and the service was just right.

Posted 04/28/03

I went there last week with my friends and ordered some fish. First, the table was not set properly, the silverwears were dirty, the waiter barely spoke english-he had a strong accent, the fish plater was OK but the floor smelled like bleach! The manager was trying to be friendly by wearing a fake smile on his face but all he was showing was his real ignorance about restaurant managment.

Posted 01/25/03

I passed Avra multiple times this summer with good intentions of trying it at some point.....had I known that the food would be so delicious, flavorful, creative, and plentiful, this would have made the top of my list much sooner. The fresh fish and sefood dishes we tried were served in massive portions and superbly seasoned and cooked (or uncooked in re: to perfect tuna!). The staff was attentive and amiable, and our server was very helpful when selecting from the extensive grappa and ouva selections....I rarely find need to travel above USquare for fantastic meals and service, but Avra is defintely something worth venturing uptown for....

Posted 10/24/02

Had the pleasure of dining at Avra the other night, and as a regular NYC person with normal tastes, the food was exceptional! The octopus appetizer was tender with light flavors, the spanakopita was to die for, the lamb was so tender and flavorful, and the chilean sea bass was simply prepared with spices and tastes one would expect in Greece. The ambiance is extremely comfortable & relaxing with polite, efficient service.

Posted 08/14/02

I love this restaurant. Sit in the front room - it feels like a little bit of the Greek Islands right here in midtown - a nice change of pace from the normal, stuffy restaurants in this general area. Food is excellent - the mussels with ouzo and feta are incredible as is the grilled octopus. I frequently make a meal out of a bunch of appetizers.

Posted 07/29/02

I been going there for the past year and half
and i never had a bad meal.
the food is the best greek food i ever had and i have been to many greek restaurants.
the place is always very busy so you know they are doing something right, i would send many people to eat the great greek food

Posted 07/26/02

My visit to Avra was a great experience. The food, the service and the atmoshphere were all excellent. Finally, a place in NYC I can tell people to go to when they ask me for a good Greek restaurant.

Pros: outdoor dining, great food, welcoming decor

Posted 06/15/02

I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at Avra to see the outside seating. It was a beautiful evening and a perfect night. We did have to wait for a table being that we did not have a reservation however the waiting area was quite comfortable. When they seated we had a table in their courtyard and I actually felt like I left the city... we had the outside seating but not on the street where you have to listen to the cars. The food was great the service was terrific and the ambiance was outstanding

Posted 05/19/02