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Athena Mediterranean Cuisine
Category: Restaurants Greek Greek [Edit]
213 Smith St(between Baltic St & Butler St)
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Neighborhoods: Cobble Hill, Gowanus
(718) 625-2616
- Nearest Transit:
-
Bergen St (F, G)
Carroll St (F, G)
Hoyt - Schermerhorn Sts (A, C, G)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 4 pm - 2 am
Fri-Sat 4 pm - 4 am
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Vince H. said: "For so long,ive awaiteda REAL greek restaurant here.and it was surely worth the wait,finally got rid of that dirty dumppiu bela ,yuck!!! that was a rat haven before. Now,its a classy casual-fine dining place, nicemusic, great staff and…" read more »
22 reviews for Athena Mediterranean Cuisine
Review Highlights
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"I had the chicken souvlaki platter - pretty standard but..." In 4 reviews -
"Spiro, the owner/chef, regaled us with tales of Greece..." In 4 reviews -
"We started with Saganaki - ouzo soaked fried cheese brought..." In 2 reviews
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22 reviews in English
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Review from Maia D.
11/8/2011
"Who knew dancing was spelled A-T-H-E-N-A?"
Not me until I stumbled in here one Friday night with some friends.
I can't speak for the food but if you are looking for a place to dance after hitting up BGH, Camp or happen to get off at Bergen Street stop by accident and feel like dancing on your way home - maybe you stop in here?
A friend of mine summed up the crowd best when she exclaimed over a BonJovi/Usher mash up and shots of red headed sluts, "This place is like the land of misfit toys!" -
Review from Wendy G.
Brooklyn, NY
3/7/2012
I've eaten here a few times now, and each time both I and my dining companion have found the food to be very nice quality and apparently freshly made. The Greek salad is nice, and the dolmade is especially good. The eggplant rollitini was outstanding. My husband said his chicken with red wine reduction (one of the few plates under $20) was also very good. The souvlaki platter is somewhat variable - mine waa not the choicest bits of lamb, but was fine for the price. Although many of the menu items are priced a bit high, as many other reviewers note, countering that, there is a daily (Mon-Thurs) prix fixe for $19.99 that includes 3 courses AND a glass of (house) wine. The prix fixe is a great deal, making the net pricing sort of a strange combination.
I do have to agree with all the other reviewers that say the seating is uncomfortable and the decor is off. If you end up sitting in one of the L-shaped banquette/booth seats, your back may get a little angry. With the quality of the food here, and number of hungry people regularly trolling Smith Street, it seems like there would be more butts in the seats. Perhaps if the owners read these reviews, and improve the seating, more butts will get into those seats, eating their nice quality cuisine. Even just removing the L-shaped seats and replacing with regular seats as otherwise used throughout the restaurant would be an improvement for comfort. Even so, this places is worth at least trying, especially for a prix fixe meal. -
Review from Matthew P.
Brooklyn, NY
9/24/2011
If you're seeking very good Greek food, you'll need to look elsewhere. But if you're in the nabe, want to try something other than Asian fusion, Thai, sushi, or need a Metaxa fix, Athena isn't a bad choice.
The service is friendly and the vibe is lively. I liked the decor which is a combination of Ibiza meets grotto meets Greek diner meets club. But it somehow works.
The Greek soup was meh, very watery and like the rest of the food, missing some flavor. Calamari was decent, but not memorable. Spanakopita was less than average and soggy. Decent galaktoboureko and surprisingly good coffee.
They feature Metaxa-based cocktails that are good--in particular the Apollo Elixir. -
Review from A A.
Hempstead, NY
4/2/2011
A date night with my Greek uncle.
He's from Sparta. He ain't f around.
Plus, his homegirl works here so there is NO way I'll be disappointed.
As I expected I was happy eating those yummies...
- Chickpeas hummus with pita bread
GOOD appetizer.
- Grilled calamari
THE BEST. Try this.
- Greek salad
Honestly, this is the best. Vinegary dressing does a trick.
- Moussaka
Mildly seasoned.
- Spinach pie
Delish!!
- Beef Souvlaki
They were out of lamb tonight. Soft, juicy, tender... Goodness. Avoid rice if you don't like too much lemon-ish flavor.
- Banana pudding
TRY THIS!!! you won't regret.
- Frappe
Bitterness is just perfect. GREAT.
People are mingling to fool around, everybody knows everybody. Very nice place. -
Review from Rich B.
1/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm a bit torn. I'd like to write a really snarky review of this place, but I like their spirit. The folks that work there seem genuinely nice.
That said...
The decor is straight outta Bay Ridge (surprise, they have a location there - they seemed excited that they now carried Hypnotic (*sigh*)).
Here are my issues.
The prices need tweaking. A bottle of wine, two entres, and one (!) appetizer shouldn't cost us $100. I'm not sure how that happened, especially since we went with the fine greek wine (I'd recommend the greek wine - their other non-greek wines are nothing to write home about) and I have a pretty good idea what their wholesale cost on that is.
I'm not against paying $100 for two. We do that at Ki Sushi or Bino all the time - but they aren't serving the quality of food comparatively. That dinner should have been at most $70.
They need a wine list. They need to cook lamb the way you ask for it (my medium rare baby lamb chops came out very well done). Lose the television sets. Don't push Hypnotic. Scale down the menu a bit as there are a lot of items. Don't serve iceberg lettuce... ever (it came with the calamari).
On the other hand, we enjoyed the shots of Windex. Pretty tasty. -
Review from Sachin P.
Brooklyn, NY
11/1/2010
Several things that i didn't enjoy about his place:
1. The Food is bland.
2. The Seats are uncomfortable.
3. The Price is too high.
4. The Ambiance is tacky. -
Review from Eric S.
Brooklyn, NY
9/24/2010
I wrote a really mean review after eating here. It was cathartic, but too bitchy, so I erased it. But to counteract some of the obvious ballot-stuffing by the previous reviewers, here are the facts:
Athena is not good. In fact, it's a three-time loser: bad food, bad decor, bad service.
The atmosphere: haphazard, with blaring TV, intrusive music and tacky decor bought in bulk at whatever Astoria's equivalent of Pearl River Market is - perfunctory 'Greek' statues and paintings of the Parthenon, etc. But much worse are the torturous banquettes: too low, too far from the tables and so rigidly L-shaped they would be comical if they weren't so painful.
The service: cutely amateurish at first, then annoying, then infuriating. It's like being in a small town high school play called "Uncle Spiro's Restaurant." You get to play the role of "Pissed-Off Diner".
The food: dreadful. Put off by the crap decor, we got paranoid and stuck to the menu's Greek-Med basics. Short version: it's all bad. Fried calamari tasted like deep-fried rubber bands dumped out of a jumbo Sysco freezer bag, overcooked to the point of tasting burnt and served with generic marinara from a jar. I recognized that my fatty, gristly lamb kabob was some kind of sheep meat only because of its gamy, barnyard smell. It also managed to be bland. My partner's gyro was dry, curling and crispy at the edges as if it had been waiting under a heat lamp for a few hours. Rice was cold in parts, hot in others, indicating extensive use of a microwave. Worst of all, the Greek salad had the faded, commingled flavors and mushy consistency of something that's been festering in a plastic vat on the bottom shelf of a fridge, with a big stainless steel spoon stuck in it. Gross.
Athena is a grave insult to one of the world's oldest, richest and most soulful cuisines. Everything about this place bespeaks laziness, corner-cutting and general contempt for (or ignorance of) excellence. Oh, and it's way overpriced, too, adding insult to culinary injury. Hey Athenians: go learn your craft.
It's all a crying shame, because Smith Street desperately needs some variety, and Greek food can be transcendent when it's good.
Unfortunately, you won't find any at Athena. -
Review from IshaggedSpicoli K.
Brooklyn, NY
5/25/2011
Good food...ordered the Greek soup - was kinda blown away - very tasty.
This place was not bad, good food...something was missing...maybe people. -
Review from Veronica T.
Brooklyn, NY
3/9/2011
Thank you Athena for motivating me to return to Yelp and give you a great review. I was blown away by my recent late lunch experience here. A bit hesitant to try Greek food outside of Astoria or the other Greek restaurants I worked in a decade ago, I was impressed at the homemade love and flavor of the food and vibes of the place.
Spiro, the owner/chef, regaled us with tales of Greece, food, and local business. As a shop owner myself, I recognize the passionate enthusiasm he has for his place and food. He truly cares about his ingredients and had us try a variety of spreads and desserts he's created and is excited to share it with the n'hood. The taramasalata (trad'l fish roe spread) was delicious along with the homemade hummus served before the meal. We were even offered a shot of Sprio's original "windex" shot - Blue Curacao, Ouzo, and lemon juice - yum!
Lots of fun vibes, family pride (family owned/run) and real Greek food love. They also have a chic loungy back area that's great for happy hour/post work gatherings (hmmmm;).. Can't wait to try more! -
Review from David W.
1/8/2011
Was in the area, and told that it's mostly a dearth of options in terms of anything decent to eat. So Greek sounded good enough for lunch despite the place being completely empty.
So the inside does have a clean trendy look, but I second the chairs being uncomfortable, just way too hard and stiff. The food? Well, I'm a big fan of appetizers, and this place had none except for soup. I mean, seriously? It sounds like they have apps for dinner, but to not have them for lunch, you can do better than that.
For entrees, it's all the very standard what Americans would perceive as Greek food with nothing at all unique or interesting. I ended up getting a plate with spinach pie and moussaka, but it was nothing memorable. I'd put this place at 2.5 stars, and rounding it down to 2 just because it's a place I'd say I don't really have any desire to come back to. If you're stuck in the area and are looking for basic Greek fare, I guess this place is an option, otherwise keep looking. -
Review from Karen A.
New York, NY
9/11/2010
Saw this place on our way into the Clover Club - yelped it and found out that it just opened! And on the strength of the first review decided to check it out!!!!
First off "shout outs" to Helen and Spiro who came to our table and chit chatted with us! Made our dinner much more memorable! They hooked us up with a free glass of wine and some bread pudding for dessert!
Food was very good - we just shared some apps well prepared and seasoned well!
Ambiance and decor was great very cozy booths - I do have to agree with the music , just a touch loud but not so loud that you could not have convo. The only con that I had is that it was really HOT in there, the front was open but it wasn't circulating fresh air to the back. Other than that wonderful food, great attentive service and good prices! -
Review from Vanessa N.
Brooklyn, NY
2/16/2011 12 photos
Me and my boyfriend initially started going here because our fav bartender, Maro, started working there on Sunday's. We quickly grew to love this place, the owner (chef) and the food!
We were there for super bowl and for Valentine's Day and weren't disappointed with anything we ordered. Everything is made fresh and tasty.
It's also very nice to go to a place where the owner, Spiro, is not only professional but FRIENDLY! -
Review from Victor S.
9/8/2010 1 Check-in Here
Finally a Greek option in the area! And honestly, a welcome change from the many many many mediocre Asian fusion restaurants on Smith Street.
This particular storefront used to be a Mexican place, which didnt really last that long at all.
Now comes Athena, from the same owners as the other Athena in Park Slope, and one in Bay Ridge too.
The place just opened yesterday and they have Greek and American flags waving majestically out on the sidewalk. I stopped by in for lunch. The decor is cool, with exposed stone wall with some Greek pottery. The restaurant itself has some seating by the open windows in front. And then it narrows out as you go deeper into the restaurant.
They have some lunch deals going on and I ordered a chicken souvlaki platter. It comes with rice and side salad. I loved the rice to be honest, and I don't ordinarily like that particular grain of rice. But it had a very nice zingy taste to it from the lemons. The chicken souvlaki was nicely marinaded and barbecued on some skewers with green peppers and onions. I felt it was pretty solid -- probably could've used a bit more salt, but that's just a matter of personal preference.
Some minor gripes. I didn't get any pita bread! Although admittedly, I forgot to ask and when I thought of it, it was pointless to ask since my food was coming soon anyways. But I do hope that they give out some pita bread with olive oil. Oh and the music was really annoying. Meh. When I think of Greek restaurant, I don't imagine eating delicious souvlaki with Lady Gaga, Madonna, and other Top 40 stuff in the background.
Overall, it's a good place. I'll return for dinner since I live around the corner. There's a full bar as well. Seems to be open late -- till 1am! They accept credit cards, deliver, and do take-out. -
Review from Justin S.
Brooklyn, NY
3/14/2011
Went here for a Saturday late lunch. What we had:
Greek spread appetizer (choice of 3 spreads out of 5, we got the garlic spread, hummus, and eggplant (yum!) But $12? worth it if you're splitting with more than 2 people, otherwise a little steep.
Moussaka- great! the potatoes were also simply soft and delicious and flavorful
Chicken Souvlaki sandwich w/fries- Chicken was done perfectly!! SO often chicken souvlaki is overdone and dry, not here. Also, the fries were SO YUMMY! They are the thick, freshly cut type, and were well done and crispy. Can't remember if they were offered as an appetizer, but definitely recommended.
This greek place is good, if not very good. They are still working out some kinks in the service, as there was only one waitress for the whole restaurant, but i look forward to coming back and having another delicious hearty greek meal. -
Review from Emily H.
Brooklyn, NY
10/4/2010
My boyfriend and I went here on a rainy Monday night based on his passing by there over the weekend and receiving free samples of yummy food from the chef himself, Spiro and us wanting comfort food and a warm place to get out of the rain and recover from the crappy days we both had.
It was the perfect antidote to a rainy, cold, MONDAY night - it was warm and inviting, and felt like we'd been invited especially for dinner. We started with Saganaki - ouzo soaked fried cheese brought flaming to the table. I feel like there's no need to review something after just describing it as "ouzo soaked fried cheese brought flaming to the table" but it was so yummy - sharp oozy cheese with some crust around the edge. Mmmm. Eat it with a fork and be happy.
I had the chicken souvlaki platter - pretty standard but very yummy. Oregano spiked cubed chiken breast with pepers and onions, grilled, over rice pilaf (lemony) and served with a Greek Salad on the side.
My boyfriend had the Mousakka that was served with greek styled potatoes and greek salad. It was warm and hearty and delicious.
We had decided against dessert but our server sold us on the ouzo and the baklava sorbet which the chef brought over himself and told us it was on the house. I don't even like ouzo or Anise flavor, but though it was very licorice-y, I liked it - very good for digestion, I'm told. And the baklava sorbet, well, there's no need to say more if you're a fan of baklava. Delish.
Spiro & our server both made us feel like we were the only people in the restaurant - it's that personal touch, and warm inviting atmosphere, that can be so tough to find in this "destination foodie" neighborhood of pretentious nouveau American restaurants, all the same Italian restaurants (except Fragole, which kicks A&&) and "Thai" and I use that term loosely that line the streets here.
I look forward to going back soon!!! -
Review from Jazz J.
Brooklyn, NY
9/10/2010
We went here opening night and are so happy to finally have Greek in the neighborhood! Everything was delicious, and the staff were very kind. We agree with the other reviewer that a change in music would be nice. They have a small lounge area in the back and are going to be open late. Read more details and see pics of the interior and food here:
http://jazzandjill.wor... -
Review from Holly F.
Brooklyn, NY
6/17/2011
First time last night. The owner, Spiro, was very hospitable and was genuinely cooking for us with love. The food was excellent. We had: bacalao and red snapper, spinach spanakopitas and fried octopus. The sauces and flavors are amazing because everything is fresh. Nice live string musician adds to ambiance. A bit pricey but the food really is worth it.
Negatives: the bench seats are too low for the table I felt like I could have used a booster seat. The menu is quite extensive and everything sounds excellent but it is a bit overwhelming, needs to be reduced to most popular and specialty dishes. The waitress is abrupt and rough around the edges, needs to learn hospitality. -
Review from John H.
Manhattan, NY
2/13/2011
Good place, needs a bit of work, a little amateur-ish. Was noticeably empty on a warm Friday night.
Lamb strudel (waitress sold it as beef) was delicious though a little tough.
Waitress was really nice if a little overeager (also slightly pushy about getting a drink, appetizer, and dessert). -
Review from Fil I.
Harrison, NJ
5/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great service and great food
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Review from Jennifer S.
Brooklyn, NY
2/23/2011
Ya know, when you're going to a Greek restaurant - I wouldn't expect chic decor. That being said, I have not physically been to Athena for a sit down meal. I had a craving for a good Chicken Souvlaki and ordered in tonight. I was impressed with the friendly person on the phone. I was then dismayed that I didn't get the lemonade I ordered with the Souvlaki and the tzaziki sauce was spilled. So I call back and who ever answered was so kind and apologetic. They sent me the lemonade, two sauces and a complimentary baklava. All the food was really good. The chicken kebabs with rice pilaf were very tasty. The baklava was not too sweet had a nice level of cinnamon and not drowning in honey. The fact that they sent a comp baklava for missing the lemonade - well that's good service. I like these guys. Give them a shot.
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Review from Anders F.
New York, NY
1/29/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Great souvlaki!
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Review from Matt G.
Holtsville, NY
4/22/2011
Good luck getting a delivery the woman on the phone speaks bad English and the delivery guy is worse, long story short I ordered food, it came an hour later on a Wednesday night I ordered a gyro type sandwich and some rice, food came with no utensils or napkins but it did come with one thing extra HAIR in my sandwich, when I called and asked for the manger he told me it was impossible because no one has long hair in the restaurant, now when I say hair I mean this hair was about a foot long !!! Smh don't eat here unless you like hair and bad service!!!!
