Sample a taste of the Mediterranean at these buzzy dining spots.
A sampling from the menu at Andros Taverna
1. Andros Taverna
Try contemporary Greek fare from husband-and-wife duo chef Doug Psaltis and pastry chef Hsing Chen’s newest restaurant project, Andros Taverna. The menu’s fresh expression of Greek soul food showcases sustainably sourced, nourishing ingredients with dishes including tender grilled octopus, whole wood-burning oven-cooked fish and meats slow roasted over charcoal embers. Dessert items span vanilla soufra, chocolate halva mousse and baklava frozen yogurt, as well as a boxed selection of pastries on weekends and during brunch. 2542 N. Milwaukee Ave., androstaverna.com
Shrimp salad from Avli
2. Avli
Greek eatery Avli announces the opening of its fourth location and the eagerly awaited partnership with Magellan Development Group in Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood. “Diners can expect the fresh, creative and tasty Greek favorites they’ve come to love, along with a strong focus on seafood and healthy dishes,” says Louie Alexakis, Avli founding partner and lead culinary operator. Slated to open this month, the 13,000-square-foot venue will feature two-sided stone fireplaces, an expansive bar, a spacious outdoor roof deck with heated cabanas and breathtaking views from floor-to-ceiling windows. 180 N. Field Blvd., avli.us
A classic meze plate from Meze Table
3. Meze Table
Elizabeth Gartelos Morris’ wildly colorful meze boards—inspired by her background as a sommelier and upbringing in a Greek American family—have been the life of many a party thanks to her catering company, Meze Table. Now, born out of the pandemic, the chef and co-owner has taken her beautifully curated assortments of cheese, fruit, charcuterie, roasted and pickled vegetables, and more to the masses via Tock, noting, “We endeavor to bring this experience to your home, to share with the ones you love.” mezetable. catering; exploretock.com/mezetable
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Photography by: COURTESY OF ANDROS; COURTESY OF AVLI; BY NEIL BURGER/COURTESY OF MEZE TABLE