NYC’s neighborhood taverna

The Casual Greek is a chic and cozy Greek Taverna in Midtown East. We take pride in serving all your favorite traditional Greek dishes and some new favorites. Join us for a quick lunch or a full meal with family and friends.

Happy Hour is 3pm-7pm on weekdays. Our beverage program features a wide range of Greek wines, Greece’s favorite beers, and seasonal cocktails.

A blue four-story building with a sign for The Casual Greek restaurant on the ground floor. The front has black fire escape stairs and windows with black trim.
Interior of a cozy café with wooden furniture, bar area, and decorative wall mirrors.
A serving of Vegan Moussaka
A plate of coffee seasoned grilled steak topped, roasted mini potatoes, and grilled asparagus.
Grilled fish with lemon slices and cherry tomatoes, paired with sautéed greens
A plate with chicken wraps, one cut in half to show grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and other ingredients, garnished with fresh greens

Meet George

Owner, The Casual Greek

Close-up of thin, wispy plant stems with small leaves or seed heads, in soft blue and teal tones.
Man laughing while sitting outdoors in a floral shirt, with plants and a window in the background.

Born in Greece and raised in Astoria Queens, George remembers a time when good hospitality was just part of the neighborhood. Special occasions were catered by the block- Sophia next door made the stuffed peppers, Angeliki across the street made the best spanakopita, and Eleni made rice pudding.

It was a simpler time and the food was made with pride.

The chefs of his childhood may no longer be with us, but the memories and recipes remain. Along with the need for a nourishing Greek meal. For George the right mix of spices, a squeeze of lemon, and a generous amount of olive oil can work wonders for the soul.

That’s why we are here.