Symposium

- 544 W 113th St, New York, NY 10025

For New Yorkers, the search for a truly authentic and welcoming dining experience is a continuous journey. While our city is a melting pot of cultures, finding a restaurant that not only serves great food but also transports you to another place is a special treat. In the vibrant and academic neighborhood of Morningside Heights, Symposium stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Greek cuisine and hospitality. More than just a place to eat, it is a culinary haven that has been a part of the community for decades, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere where every meal feels like a gathering among friends.

This article will delve into what makes Symposium a must-visit destination for anyone in New York with a craving for the flavors of Greece. We will explore its accessible location, the wide range of services it provides, and the specific features that have made it a beloved local favorite. From its hearty and delicious dishes to the warm and friendly staff, Symposium consistently delivers an experience that is both satisfying and memorable.

Whether you're a student at a nearby university looking for a comforting meal, a local resident seeking a go-to spot for dinner, or simply a visitor exploring the Upper West Side, Symposium offers a genuine taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of our city. It's a place that understands the importance of both tradition and community, making it a true gem in New York's diverse restaurant scene.

Symposium is ideally located at 544 W 113th St, New York, NY 10025. This address places it in the heart of Morningside Heights, a neighborhood known for its academic energy and charming residential streets. The restaurant's location is particularly convenient for students, faculty, and staff of Columbia University, as well as for the many residents who call this area home.

The restaurant's accessibility is a key factor in its appeal. Situated just a short walk from Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, it is easily reachable on foot from a variety of points within the neighborhood. The proximity to the 1 train subway line makes it a convenient dining spot for anyone coming from other parts of Manhattan or the city. Its location on a quieter side street provides a pleasant escape from the more bustling avenues while remaining incredibly easy to find. This combination of a tranquil atmosphere and excellent accessibility makes it a perfect choice for both a planned dinner and a spontaneous meal.

The local nature of its clientele is evident in the fact that it's a popular choice for solo dining, group outings, and family-friendly meals. Symposium's address in such a well-known area ensures that it is not only a local fixture but also a destination for those seeking an authentic Greek meal in a classic New York setting.

Symposium offers a comprehensive array of services and a menu that highlights the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant caters to a variety of needs and dining preferences, ensuring that every guest can find something to love.

Services Offered:

• Dine-in and Takeout: The restaurant provides a comfortable dine-in experience for those who wish to sit and enjoy their meal. For those on the go, it offers convenient takeout and delivery options, including no-contact delivery, making it a flexible choice for any occasion.

• Catering and Table Service: Symposium is equipped to handle catering for events and offers traditional table service for all its guests. The ability to reserve a table makes planning a meal with a group or for a special occasion simple and stress-free.

• Extensive Menu Offerings: The menu is rich with authentic Greek dishes. It includes a variety of options to suit different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, and healthy options. A customer review highlighted the "Avgolemono soup" and "Pastitsio," which are classic Greek comfort foods. The menu also features small plates, which are perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors. For those who enjoy a drink with their meal, the restaurant offers a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.

• Specialty Foods: The restaurant serves halal food, making it an inclusive dining choice for a broader community. Its commitment to offering dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients is another notable service.

• Casual and Cozy Dining Atmosphere: The restaurant’s "casual" and "cozy" atmosphere, combined with the "warm inviting feeling" noted in a customer review, makes it a comfortable place for anyone, from a college student to a family group. The interior, with its inviting decor, is designed to make guests feel at home.

Symposium is not just a place to get a meal; it's a place that provides a superior dining experience through several key features and highlights that set it apart from the competition.

Features & Highlights:

• Fast and Efficient Service: One of the restaurant's top highlights is its "fast service." A customer review mentioned that the "food came out in a timely manner," which is a significant advantage for diners in a bustling city like New York who appreciate quick and efficient service without compromising on quality.

• Delicious and Authentic Food: The quality of the food is consistently praised. Reviews highlight the deliciousness of the dishes, with specific mentions of the Pastitsio and the perfect lamb. The Pastitsio, with its "prominent notes of cinnamon and other spices," shows a dedication to authentic flavors. The Greek lamb, a favorite among patrons, is a highlight and a must-try for any first-time visitor.

• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: The kindness of the staff is a recurring theme in reviews. Customers have described the service as "super kind" and "nice," creating a "warm inviting feeling." This welcoming attitude contributes significantly to the overall positive dining experience and is a major reason for the restaurant’s loyal following. The staff makes every group feel at home, whether they are a family, friends, or a solo diner.

• Inclusive and Family-Friendly Environment: Symposium is a place for everyone. The data highlights that it is popular with college students, families, and groups, and is also an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space. This welcoming and inclusive atmosphere makes it a comfortable place for diverse crowds, fostering a strong sense of community.

• Reservations and Planning: The restaurant accepts reservations, a key feature for New Yorkers planning a night out. This allows for easy planning and ensures a table is ready, especially for larger groups or during peak dining times.

Contact Information:

Address: 544 W 113th St, New York, NY 10025

Phone: (212) 865-1011

What is worth choosing Symposium?

Choosing Symposium is a decision to embrace the very best of Greek culture and hospitality in the heart of New York. It is a restaurant that delivers on every front: exceptional food, fast and friendly service, and a genuinely warm and inviting atmosphere. While there are many dining options in the city, Symposium stands out as a place that not only provides a delicious meal but also makes you feel like family.

The positive reviews from real customers provide the most compelling reasons to visit. The "perfect" lamb, the comforting Avgolemono soup, and the savory Pastitsio all point to a kitchen that is committed to traditional, high-quality cooking. The fact that the "food came out in a timely manner" and the staff was "super kind" highlights the operational excellence that makes dining here a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick, delicious lunch or a cozy dinner where you can relax and feel at home, Symposium offers an experience that is both satisfying and authentic. For a true taste of Greece in a space that feels like a cherished neighborhood institution, Symposium is undoubtedly the perfect choice.

Symposium

544 W 113th St, New York, NY 10025, USA