Meli Estiatorio

- 98-31 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375

Introduction / Overview

Meli Estiatorio, nestled in the heart of Forest Hills, Queens, offers New Yorkers an authentic yet upscale escape to the Mediterranean without ever leaving the borough. Meaning "honey" in Greek, Meli lives up to its name by delivering a sweet, memorable, and rich dining experience. This Greek restaurant specializes in a modern interpretation of traditional Hellenic cuisine, with a strong focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients, particularly from the sea.

Beyond the exceptional food, Meli Estiatorio has quickly become a destination spot in Queens due to its beautiful, inviting ambiance and vibrant atmosphere. The décor is often praised for its elegant, trendy, and cozy feel, reminiscent of a stylish Santorini taverna, with thoughtful touches like a prominent bar and sometimes a live DJ or Live Music to enhance the evening experience. The restaurant is popular for a wide array of occasions, serving as a perfect setting for a romantic Dinner, a sophisticated Lunch, or even a comfortable Solo Dining experience.

The menu is a testament to the versatility of Greek and Mediterranean flavors. Patrons can indulge in classics like Spanakopita and Saganaki alongside refined main courses such as Whole Grilled Fish like Lavraki and Tsipoura, or premium meats including Lamb Chops and Filet Mignon. The commitment to freshness is evident in every dish, from the generous Greek Salad to the elaborate seafood platters. Furthermore, the establishment caters to diverse dietary needs, featuring extensive Healthy Options, Organic Dishes, and Vegetarian Options, ensuring there is something exquisite for everyone.

Location and Accessibility

Meli Estiatorio is conveniently situated at 98-31 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA, placing it right on a bustling thoroughfare in one of Queens’ most desirable neighborhoods. This location on Metropolitan Avenue is highly accessible for both local Forest Hills and Rego Park residents and those traveling from further afield in the New York City region.

Recognizing the common challenge of parking in NYC, Meli provides several convenient options for its patrons. These include accessible Free Street Parking and Paid Street Parking in the surrounding area. Crucially, the restaurant also offers Valet Parking, a highly valued service that removes the stress of finding a spot, allowing guests to step directly into the upscale dining experience.

The venue is committed to ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests, offering essential accessibility features including a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance and Wheelchair Accessible Seating. Its location within a vibrant commercial stretch makes it easy to reach by local public transit, though the provided parking solutions certainly make it a favorable choice for a drive-in dining experience, particularly for special occasions or groups. Given the popularity of the restaurant, particularly in the evenings, using the provided valet service is a thoughtful option to save time and enhance your overall visit.

Services Offered

• Table Service: Dedicated, professional table service ensuring a seamless and attentive dining experience, consistently praised for its quality.
• Dine-in: Offers a beautiful, well-appointed dining room for both casual and upscale meals.
• Takeout: Convenient option for enjoying Meli's cuisine at home or on the go.
• Full Bar Service: Featuring a stunning Bar Onsite with a variety of Alcohol, Beer, Hard Liquor, and a highly-rated Great Wine List.
• Happy Hour: Special Happy Hour Food Menu and Happy Hour Drink Menu available, making it an excellent spot for after-work socializing and tasting the appetizers.
• Reservations Accepted: The restaurant actively Accepts Reservations, which is Dinner reservations recommended due to its high demand, especially on weekends.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Caters to families with options that are Good for Kids, including High Chairs and a dedicated Kids' Menu.
• Modern Payment: Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and modern NFC Mobile Payments for convenience.

Features / Highlights

• Signature Cocktails & Wine: Known for Great Cocktails and a sophisticated Great Wine List, perfect for pairing with the Mediterranean menu. The Bar Onsite serves as a lively hub.
• Exceptional Freshness: Emphasis on whole grilled fish like Lavraki and Tsipoura, alongside premium Pat La Frida-sourced meats, ensuring high-quality main courses.
• Must-Try Appetizers: Customer favorites include the famous Meli Chips (paper-thin zucchini and eggplant chips) and the incredibly tender Charcoal Grilled Octopus, showcasing the kitchen’s mastery of small plates.
• Vibrant Ambiance and Entertainment: Offers a Trendy yet Cozy atmosphere, often featuring Live Music or a live DJ, creating a celebratory and high-energy dining environment, especially later in the evening.
• Unwavering Service Quality: Repeatedly highlighted in reviews is the Fast Service and professional, warm staff who make guests feel "part of the Meli family."
• Inclusivity: A clearly welcoming space for the local community, listed as LGBTQ+ Friendly and a Transgender Safespace, complemented by a Gender-Neutral Restroom.
• Amazing Desserts: Don't miss the rich, authentic, and generously portioned desserts, noted for their deliciousness and a perfect ending to the meal.

Contact Information

Address: 98-31 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA

Phone: (718) 374-5157

Mobile Phone: +1 718-374-5157

What is Worth Choosing

Meli Estiatorio is undeniably worth choosing for any New Yorker seeking a premium, authentic, and complete Greek dining experience that rivals the quality and atmosphere of Manhattan's finest restaurants, but with the convenience and community feel of Queens. What sets Meli apart is the synthesis of high-end culinary execution with a lively, welcoming environment.

You choose Meli for the freshness of the WHOLE GRILLED FISH, a signature of upscale Greek cuisine, where fish like Lavraki and Fagri are prepared simply with olive oil and lemon to highlight their natural flavor. You choose it for the exceptional quality of the meats, such as the Bone In Rib Eye or succulent Lamb Chops, which customers describe as "succulent, just perfect." The portions are noted to be generous and shareable, providing excellent value.

More than the food, Meli is an experience. The stunning, Trendy decor, the energetic Live Music vibe, and the sophisticated Great Cocktails transform a regular meal into a special occasion. When planning your visit, the option of Valet Parking is a significant amenity for Queens drivers, and the dedicated Happy Hour Menu provides a perfect entry point to sample signature appetizers like the addictive Meli Chips and Saganaki. For a memorable night out where great food, excellent service, and a vibrant atmosphere converge, Meli Estiatorio is the premier Greek choice in Forest Hills. Remember to make a reservation, as this popular spot fills up quickly!

Meli Estiatorio

98-31 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA