Elea: An Upscale Greek Dining Oasis on the Upper West Side

Elea Introduce

In the vibrant culinary landscape of New York City, Elea emerges as a true gem, offering a refined and authentic Greek dining experience on the Upper West Side. The restaurant's name, meaning "olive" in ancient Greek, reflects its dedication to the core principles of Mediterranean cuisine: freshness, simplicity, and quality ingredients. Elea is not your typical Greek taverna; it is an upscale, modern destination that beautifully marries classic recipes with a sophisticated, contemporary flair. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a serene and stylish space, complete with whitewashed brick walls and elegant lighting, creating an atmosphere that is both cozy and upscale.

Elea’s menu is a carefully curated selection of traditional Greek favorites and innovative dishes that showcase the richness of Greek flavors. The Pikilia, or spreads, are a must-try, with a variety of options including a favorite feta red chili pepper spread that one customer called "our favorite." Other highlights include the perfectly cooked Grilled Octopus, the savory Spanakopita, and the popular Lamb Chops, which are praised for being "great along with the cucumber chips" and are a go-to for many non-vegetarians. The restaurant is also known for its fresh fish, with options like the Lavraki (Mediterranean seabass) and Solomos (Faroe Island salmon), all sourced with a commitment to quality that speaks volumes about the chef’s passion for their craft.

The experience is enhanced by the friendly and attentive service. As one reviewer noted, their server was "friendly and attentive" and the staff as a whole was "very welcoming and friendly." This combination of delicious food, a beautiful ambiance, and fantastic service makes every visit to Elea a special occasion. The restaurant is a perfect spot for various crowds, from couples on a romantic date to groups and families, and it's a great choice for both lunch and dinner. For those seeking a delicious and authentic taste of Greece in a high-end setting, Elea is a standout destination worth exploring.

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### Location and Accessibility

Elea is ideally situated at 217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024, in the heart of the Upper West Side. This prime location places it just a short walk from Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History, making it a convenient and desirable dining spot for both locals and tourists. The neighborhood itself is vibrant and easily navigable, with a mix of residential buildings and lively street-level businesses.

The restaurant is designed to be fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all guests can dine with ease and comfort. For those using public transportation, the 1, B, and C subway lines are all within close proximity, providing a convenient way to get to and from the restaurant. While street parking can be a challenge in this part of Manhattan, there are options for paid street parking and paid parking garages nearby. For a more relaxed experience, making a reservation is highly recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant can get quite busy.

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### Services Offered

Dine-in: Elea offers an elegant and romantic dine-in experience with table service. The bi-level space includes a spacious basement and a bar area, accommodating various group sizes and dining preferences.
Outdoor Seating: During pleasant weather, the restaurant's outdoor seating area provides a lovely setting for a meal, allowing you to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Upper West Side.
Reservations: Given its popularity and upscale atmosphere, Elea highly recommends making reservations, especially for brunch and dinner, to ensure a spot and avoid potential wait times.
Private Dining and Catering: Elea is an excellent venue for private events. The spacious basement can be used for semi-private or private events, and the restaurant offers a catering service for off-site functions, providing its delicious food for your special occasions.
Delivery and Takeout: For those who prefer to dine at home, Elea offers both delivery and takeout options, including no-contact delivery, so you can enjoy their food with convenience.

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### Features and Highlights

Upscale and Cozy Atmosphere: Elea’s decor is a beautiful blend of a modern aesthetic with the warmth of a traditional Greek taverna. The space is often described as cozy, romantic, and upscale, making it perfect for a variety of occasions, from a romantic date night to a celebratory group dinner.
Extensive and Diverse Menu: The menu offers a wide range of options, from classic spreads (Pikilia) and small plates to a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetarian entrees. Vegetarian diners will find "plenty of options," with popular dishes like the Gigantes and Spanakopita.
Great Drinks: The restaurant is known for its excellent beverage program, featuring a "Great cocktails," "Great coffee," and a "Great wine list," with a full bar on-site. The bar area is a sparkling centerpiece that's perfect for a pre-dinner drink.
Commitment to Quality: Elea prides itself on using the finest quality ingredients, including fresh fish and organic chicken, to create its dishes. This commitment is reflected in the flavorful and well-prepared food that consistently receives high praise.
Exceptional Service: The staff at Elea is frequently mentioned in reviews for being welcoming, friendly, and attentive. The high level of service ensures that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

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### Contact Information

Address: 217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024

Phone: (212) 369-9800

Mobile Phone: +1 212-369-9800

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### What is worth choosing

Elea is worth choosing for those who are looking for a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. It is a place where authentic Greek flavors are elevated to fine dining status without losing their soul. The combination of a romantic, upscale atmosphere with an attentive staff makes it an ideal choice for a memorable evening out. Whether you are a fan of classic Greek cuisine or looking to try something new, the diverse menu ensures there's a delicious dish for every palate. From the "Tasting of 5 Spreads," which one customer called out as a must-order, to the perfectly cooked lamb chops, the quality and taste are consistently high. The availability of a private dining room also makes it a fantastic option for special events.

Beyond the food, Elea's location in the heart of the Upper West Side, combined with its accessibility and range of services—including catering and delivery—solidifies its position as a top-tier destination. It’s a place that offers more than just a meal; it provides an escape to a beautiful and welcoming Greek-inspired oasis in the middle of New York City. The fact that it is a Michelin-rated restaurant further speaks to its quality and reputation. For a truly special and delicious Greek experience, Elea is a choice that will not disappoint.

Elea Food & drink

Entrees
Organic Chicken $32.00
Organic roasted chicken with lemon potatoes.
Chicken Souvlaki $24.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Summer Garden $28.00
baked tomato, eggplant & pepper stuffed with Arborio rice, pine nuts, golden raisins, fresh herbs
Tsipoura $37.00
Greek grilled white fish, firm, full flavor.
Moussaka $31.00
Traditional casserole layered with beef, potato, eggplant, béchamel sauce
Sea Bass Special $53.00
traditional casserole layered with beef, potato, eggplant, béchamel
Short Rib Youvetsi $38.00
Xinomavro braised short rib, kefalograviera cheese, and baked orzo.
Kids Pasta $15.00
Bakaliaros $39.00
pan seared wild cod, fennel puree, carrots, asparagus, Assyrtiko thyme emulsion
Lamb Chops $55.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Solomos $35.00
Grilled loch duarte salmon, ‘prasorizo,’ arborio rice pilaf, leeks & dill
Seafood Orzotto $36.00
Shrimp, mussels, clams, saffron, orzo.
Lavraki $38.00
Grilled mediterranean seabass.
Prime Filet Mignon $55.00
Brussels sprouts , roasted potatoes, mavrodaphne Bordelaise

Pikilia
Fava $10.00
Allergies: Citrus, Allium (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yellow Split pea, onions, lemons, herbs, Olive oil
Crudite $4.00
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: Sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Spicy pepper, feta spread.
Scordalia $10.00
Allergies: Allium, gluten, nuts, vinegar (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Almonds, bread, garlic, canola oil, olive oil, garnished with almonds-garlic & parsley.
Tzatziki $10.00
Tzatziki greek strained yogurt, garlic, cucumber.
3 Spreads $22.00
Taramosalata $10.00
Allergies: allium, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Roe of grey mullet fish, lemon, vinegar, onions, canola and olive oils.
5 Spreads $32.00
Melitzanosalata $10.00
Allergies: Allium, eggs, citrus, capsicum (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, garlic, scallions, herbs, lemon, vinegar, and olive oil.
Small Tzatziki $5.00

Brunch Entrees
Chicken Souvlaki $22.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Lamb Kebab $23.00
Ground Lamb skewered, red onion, yogurt paprika tomato sauce, Greek oregano fries
Kids Pasta $15.00
Avocado Toast $17.00
poached egg, tomato, feta cheese
Crab Cake Benedict $27.00
poached eggs over crabcakes, roasted potato, green salad
Pancakes $18.00
butter, maple syrup, sour cherry
Solomos $33.00
grilled salmon, lentil salad, orange vinaigrette
Shrimp Orzotto $28.00
shrimp, saffron, orzo pasta
Lavraki Filet $33.00
grilled Mediterranean seabass, ,sauteed wild greens
Scrambled Eggs $8.00
Smoked Salmon Benedict $20.00
roasted potato, green salad
Tsoureki French Toast $17.00
fig marmalade
Steak & Eggs $35.00
12oz Sirloin, sunny side up eggs, Greek oregano fries
Wild Mushroom Risotto $28.00
porcini, oyster & black truffle mushrooms
Shaksuka $19.00
baked eggs, tomato, peppers, feta cheese, griled bread
Fried Egg $4.00
Elea Burger $19.00
Brandt ground beef, smoked cheese, tzatziki, greek fries.
Lamb Chops $36.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Greek Omelette $18.00
spinach, manouri cheese, roasted potato, green salad
Poached Egg $4.00

Dessert
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
Baklava Rolls $14.00
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our Creamy Cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Portokalopita $13.00
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.

Dessert
Portokalopita $13.00
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
3 Scoops $9.00
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.
Fruit Platter $22.00
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our Creamy Cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Baklava Rolls $14.00

Lunch Salads
Horiatiki Salad $21.00
Vine ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, peppers, olives, and arahova feta.
Elea Salad $21.00
Gluten, allium, dairy
Prasini Salad $17.00
Allergies: citrus, dijon mustard, eggs, dairy, allium (can be removed) ingredients: mixed greens (boston lettuce, escarole and frisee) scallions, mixed herbs, mizithra cheese. vinaigrette-artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.
Watermelon Salad $19.00
Lahanosalata $20.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese

Brunch Sides
Greek Fries $9.00
Allergies: none ingredients: potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Sauteed Spinach $9.00
Side Bacon $9.00
Horta $9.00
Allergies: citrus (can be removed) ingredients: steamed swiss chard, ladolemono
Roasted Potates $9.00
Green Salad $9.00
Truffle Fries $11.00
Sautéed Greens $9.00
Side Spinach $9.00
Side Smoked Salmon $10.00

Lunch Small Plates
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Allergies: Allium, Dairy, Capsicum (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Feta, serrano peppers, red bell peppers, garlic.
Tzatziki $10.00
Allergies: Dairy, Allium, vinegar (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Greek Yogurt (cows’ milk), cucumber, garlic, olive oil, red vinegar, and black pepper.
Fire Apps $0.00
Grilled Shrimp $25.00
Greek Spreads $16.00
hummus, tzatziki ,tyrokafteri, grilled pita
Gigantes $16.00
Fried Calamari $18.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Spanakopita $18.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.
Crudite $4.00
Fakes $15.00
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: Sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Tuna Tartare $25.00
Yellowfin tuna, avocado, yogurt, mango, chives, kataifi, sesame oil
Octopus $27.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.

Brunch Salads
Prasini Salad $17.00
Allergies: citrus, dijon mustard, eggs, dairy, allium (can be removed) ingredients: mixed greens (boston lettuce, escarole and frisee) scallions, mixed herbs, mizithra cheese. vinaigrette-artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.
Watermelon Salad $19.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese
Horiatiki Salad $22.00
Vine ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, peppers, olives, and arahova feta.
Elea Salad $21.00
Gluten, allium, dairy

Dessert
Fruit Platter $22.00
Fire Dessert $0.00
Baklava Rolls $14.00
Portokalopita $13.00
Greek Yogurt $11.00
Walnuts or cherry spoon sweet.
Chocolate Cake $14.00
Valrhona chocolate mousse, wild berry coulis.
Cheesecake $13.00
Smooth and rich, our creamy cheesecake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Lunch Sides
Truffle Fries $11.00
Roasted Potates $9.00
Green Salad $9.00
Greek Fries $9.00
Allergies: none ingredients: potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Mixed Horta $9.00
Horta $9.00
Allergies: citrus (can be removed) ingredients: steamed swiss chard, ladolemono

Lunch Entrees
Chicken Souvlaki $22.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Lamb Chops $36.00
Taverna style lamb chops and fresh-cut greek fries.
Elea Burger $19.00
Brandt ground beef, smoked cheese, tzatziki, greek fries.
Lamb Kebab $23.00
Ground Lamb skewered, red onion, yogurt paprika tomato sauce, Greek oregano fries
Winter Garden Risotto $28.00
porcini, oyster & black truffle mushrooms
Solomos $33.00
grilled salmon, lentil salad, orange vinaigrette
Lavraki Filet $33.00
grilled Mediterranean seabass, ,sauteed wild greens
Shrimp Orzotto $28.00
shrimp, saffron, orzo pasta

Sides
Horta $12.00
Allergies: Citrus (can be removed) Ingredients: Steamed Swiss Chard, Ladolemono
Side Feta $6.00
Greek Fries $12.00
Allergies: none Ingredients: Potatoes, canola oil, oregano
Lemon Potatoes $12.00
Allergies: Allium, Citrus, Mustard (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yukon Potatoes, lemon Juice, onion, garlic, Dijon Mustard, Herbs
Sauteed Spinach $12.00
Allergies: Citrus (can be removed) Ingredients: Sauteed spinach, lemon juice.
Asparagus $12.00
Allergies: Dairy (can be done without) Ingredients: Sauteed Brussel sprouts, butter

Salads
Horiatiki $23.00
Tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, kalamata olives, and Feta cheese.
Prasini Salad $18.00
Mixed Greens (Boston lettuce, Escarole and Frisee) Scallions, mixed Herbs, Mizithra Cheese. Vinaigrette-Artichoke, assyrtiko, olive oil and canola oil.
Watermelon Salad $19.00
baby arugula, Arahova feta, walnuts, serrano-lime emulsion
Lahanosalata $22.00
Brussel sprouts, cabbage, shaved carrots, black currants, toasted almonds, fresh herbs & kefalograviera cheese

Brunch Small Plates
Grilled Shrimp $25.00
Wild gulf shrimp, shaved fennel & frisse salad, winter radish, mint and cara cara orange
Melitzanosalata $10.00
Allergies: Allium, eggs, citrus, capsicum (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, garlic, scallions, herbs, lemon, vinegar, and olive oil.
Scordalia $10.00
Allergies: Allium, gluten, nuts, vinegar (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Almonds, bread, garlic, canola oil, olive oil, garnished with almonds-garlic & parsley.
Tuna Tartare $25.00
Yellowfin tuna, avocado, yogurt, mango, chives, kataifi, sesame oil
Tzatziki $10.00
Allergies: Dairy, Allium, vinegar (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Greek Yogurt (cows’ milk), cucumber, garlic, olive oil, red vinegar, and black pepper.
Spanakopita $18.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.
Gigantes $16.00
Baked giant lima beans, crumbled feta.
Fried Calamari $18.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Greek Spreads $16.00
hummus, tzatziki ,tyrokafteri, grilled pita
Halloumi $19.00
lemon marmalade and black sesame
Crudite $4.00
Taramosalata $10.00
Allergies: allium, citrus (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Roe of grey mullet fish, lemon, vinegar, onions, canola and olive oils.
Fakes $15.00
Hummus $10.00
Allergies: sesame seeds, citrus (can’t be removed) ingredients: chickpeas, sesame paste, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika
Tyrokafteri $10.00
Allergies: Allium, Dairy, Capsicum (Can’t be removed) Ingredients: Feta, serrano peppers, red bell peppers, garlic.
Octopus $27.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.
Fava $10.00
Allergies: Citrus, Allium (can’t be removed) Ingredients: Yellow Split pea, onions, lemons, herbs, Olive oil

Small Plates
Fire Course 1 $0.00
Mixed Olives $12.00
Sesame Feta $19.00
Kids Pasta $15.00
Kounoupidi $19.00
Cauliflower fritters with greek honey and currants.
Gigantes $16.00
Baked giant lima beans, crumbled feta.
Cheese Saganaki $14.00
Sardeles $22.00
Grilled Portuguese Sardines, eggplant caviar
Calamari Grilled $21.00
lightly fried with our classic tomato sauce,
Keftedes $21.00
Greek style meatballs with feta sauce.
Mussels Saganaki $21.00
P.E.I. mussels, feta, lemon, scallions, white wine, Mediterranean herbs
Octopus $28.00
Grilled spanish octopus, shallots, capers, cherry tomatoes, fava.
Halloumi $19.00
Sesame crusted feta, dried figs, pink peppercorns, honey.
Fried Calamari $21.00
Golden and crispy squid served with a nafpaktos tomato sauce.
Gr. Shrimp $25.00
Wild gulf shrimp, shaved fennel & frisse salad, winter radish, mint and cara cara orange
Chicken Souvlaki $24.00
Grilled skewered organic chicken, homemade honey dijon sauce, romaine salad, tomato, greek oregano fries
Spanakopita $19.00
Baked spinach, leeks, and feta cheese in phyllo dough.

Elea Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Private dining room
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd
Groups

Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Free street parking
Paid parking garage
Paid street parking
Parking

Elea Photos

Elea Location

Elea

New York New York County New York West 85th Street

217 W 85th St, New York, NY 10024, USA

Elea Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 989 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This restaurant is so delicious. The feta red chili pepper spread was our favorite. Also the lamb chops were great along with the cucumber chips. The only dessert we liked was the chocolate mouse thing. The cheesecake is too light. The baklava was too dry.
June 13 · Andrew Hazelrigg
Absolute fab experience. Reservations recommended on weekends, plenty of seating outdoors and indoors with a spacious basement perfect for family seating.Vegetarians also have plenty of options which was surprising!What to order: Tasting of 5 Spreads ($32) - Skordalia stands out, Grilled Halloumi ($18), Gigantes ($16), Asparagus ($12) - all cooked to perfection!Non Vegetarians won't go wrong with Lamb Chops ($55) or Grilled Shrimp ($25).Service was absolutely fantastic but our server Arthur was friendly and attentive. Very welcoming and friendly staff.We will be visiting again with friends and family!
August 04 · Ameya Bhakay
Thank you guys! You made our wedding the happiest day of our lives. Everything was flawless. Andrew was integral in creating this special day, and the staff were so efficient at helping everyone with all of their needs. The food was perfect, the celebration was perfect, everything went perfect.
August 18 · Carlos Hernandez De Pena
I love Greek food, so I was excited to try this restaurant—and it did not disappoint! The portions were generous, and the food was delicious. I especially enjoyed the Kounoupidi—crispy cauliflower fritters.From the outside, the restaurant looked quite small, but once inside, we discovered a whole additional floor downstairs with plenty of seating. Despite being very busy, the atmosphere was lively and inviting, and the service was attentive. Overall, it was a great experience, and we’ll definitely be back!
February 18 · Olga NYC
Fabulous restaurant. Beautiful and airy, many options for delicious food and drink, and kind staff. In addition to the photographed food I highly recommend the elea chips appetizer and the dips, particularly the Tzatziki which is some of the best I’ve ever had. The hummus is pasable for the other better dips. My major complaint is that the chairs inside and upstairs were extremely uncomfortable - I was shifting the entire meal.
July 28 · Rachel Rosenberg