Efi's Gyro

- 521 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey residents craving a taste of the Mediterranean, Efi's Gyro stands out as a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of Montclair, this authentic Greek restaurant has quickly become a local favorite for its commitment to high-quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Founded and owned by Efi Mihalis, who was just 18 when she opened the spot in June 2021, the restaurant brings a true piece of Greece to Essex County, utilizing family recipes passed down through generations—including her grandmother's famous tzatziki.

Efi's Gyro is more than just a gyro shop; it's a celebration of wholesome, authentic Greek street food, often described by customers as the most authentic they've tasted in the States. The restaurant prides itself on importing key ingredients directly from Greece—like their soft, warm pita bread, traditional feta cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil—to ensure every bite is reminiscent of the food you would find on the streets of Athens. This dedication to tradition and fresh, clean ingredients is what sets Efi's Gyro apart in New Jersey’s vibrant food scene.

The restaurant's menu is expansive, offering a variety of options that appeal to a wide audience, from meat lovers to those seeking plant-based or healthy choices. It operates as a casual and cozy family restaurant, perfect for a quick bite during the day, a comfortable family dinner, or simply grabbing a quality takeout meal. The owner's mission to offer affordable, delicious food that reminds her of home has resonated deeply with the local Montclair and surrounding New Jersey communities.

Location and Accessibility

Efi's Gyro is conveniently situated at a prominent spot in downtown Montclair, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors across the region. The central location at the corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Park Street places it right in the heart of the town’s bustling commercial district. Its proximity to other popular Montclair spots and its inviting streetscape presence make it a natural hub for a meal or quick snack.

The restaurant is designed to be accessible to everyone, with a casual and comfortable environment. They offer several service options to accommodate different needs and preferences, from a quick counter service experience to relaxed seating. For those arriving by car, both free and paid street parking options are available nearby, a convenient feature in a busy area like Montclair.

Accessibility is a priority at Efi's Gyro. The establishment features a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it welcoming for all patrons. In terms of on-site amenities, they provide a gender-neutral restroom, a standard restroom, and even offer high chairs, making it a genuinely family-friendly choice. For customers who prefer to dine with their pets, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Montclair streetscape while enjoying an authentic Greek meal.

Services Offered

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy a meal in the casual, comfortable, and cozy atmosphere, suitable for college students, families, and locals.
• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: Quick and convenient options for ordering ahead and picking up your freshly prepared meal.
• Delivery and No-Contact Delivery: Partnering with various platforms to deliver authentic Greek flavors directly to your home or office.
• Full-Service Catering: Dependable Greek and Mediterranean catering for office lunches, birthday celebrations, private gatherings, and special events, with options ranging from gyro trays and mezze platters to fresh salads.
• Counter Service: Ideal for quick bites and lunch during a busy workday.
• Outdoor Seating: Allows patrons to enjoy their food while taking in the vibrant Montclair street life.
• Lunch and Dinner Service: Available for both midday and evening meals, making it a reliable choice throughout the day.
• Kids' Menu: Special items like the Crispy Chicken Gyro and Crispy Chicken Platter ensure a satisfying meal for younger guests.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Greek Street Food: A focus on traditional recipes, including family secrets like Efi's grandmother's tzatziki sauce.
• High-Quality, Imported Ingredients: Key items like soft pita, traditional feta, and extra-virgin olive oil are imported directly from Greece.
• Women-Owned Business: Proudly owned and operated by Efi Mihalis, who launched the restaurant at just 18 years old.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: Features Halal food, a strong selection of vegetarian and vegan options (Falafel, Plant Based Gyro), and healthy choices, ensuring something for almost every dietary need.
• Signature Items: Must-try specialties include the Chicken Gyro, Greek Fries (topped with oregano and lemon), and the customizable Rice Bowls.
• Casual and Friendly Atmosphere: Known for its warm hospitality and a comfortable space that feels like home, welcoming to families and solo diners alike.
• Full Meal Experiences: Offers complete meal Platters, which typically include Greek fries, a Greek salad, pita, and a choice of protein with house-made sauces.
• Accessibility: Provides wheelchair accessibility and amenities like high chairs, making it inclusive for all guests.

Contact Information

For local New Jersey users looking to dine in, order takeout, or inquire about catering, here is the essential contact information for Efi's Gyro Montclair:

Address: 521 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

Phone: (973) 783-0005

What is worth choosing

When navigating the extensive and flavorful menu at Efi’s Gyro, there are a few items that consistently stand out as customer favorites and are essential for a first-time visit or a repeat order. The foundation of the menu is, naturally, the authentic gyros, which are truly what the restaurant is known for. The classic Gyros are a must-try, with the Chicken Gyro often cited as a top seller. It features marinated, shaved chicken wrapped in their handmade, warm pita with fresh tomatoes, onions, and creamy tzatziki sauce. For a unique and flavorful twist, consider ordering the Efi's Gyro, which includes shaved chicken, the handmade pita, and Efi's signature spicy sauce, along with tomato, onion, lettuce, and a couple of fries right inside the wrap for that authentic street food experience.

Beyond the signature wraps, the Platter options provide a more substantial, complete meal, perfect for a full dinner or a hearty lunch. The Chicken Platter or the newly added Beef & Lamb Platter are excellent choices, as they serve your chosen protein alongside pita bread, a Greek salad, a selection of sauces (Tzatziki and Efi's Sauce), and their famous Greek Fries. These platters are highly rated by diners for their value and the variety of fresh components.

Speaking of sides, the Greek Fries are a popular star in their own right. Seasoned with oregano and lemon, they offer a flavorful departure from standard restaurant fries. For those looking for an indulgence, the Loaded Greek Fries, topped with oregano, lemon, feta, tzatziki, Efi's sauce, and both shaved chicken and pork, make for a fantastic appetizer or a meal on their own.

For guests seeking non-meat options, Efi's Gyro offers excellent choices. The Falafel Gyro and the Plant Based Gyro are flavorful alternatives, and both the Plant Based Rice Bowl and Plant Based Platter are popular, indicating the care taken in their vegetarian and vegan offerings. The dips, particularly the secret-recipe Tzatziki and the spicy feta Eggplant Dip (Melitzanosalata), are perfect complements to the fluffy Handmade Pita.

Finally, for special events or office needs in the Northern New Jersey area, Efi's Gyro's catering service is well worth choosing. Their Greek Gyro Feast or Ultimate Greek Feast catering packages provide a generous and authentic spread, perfect for gatherings of all sizes, bringing the delicious flavors of Montclair right to your event.

Efi's Gyro

521 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA