London is experiencing a new wave of Greek restaurants that is moving beyond the traditional taverna model, with chefs highlighting regional dishes, Greek ingredients and contemporary interpretations of familiar classics.
Greek cuisine has long had a presence in the British capital, but the number of modern and upscale Greek restaurants has grown significantly in recent years. Restaurants such as Mazi, which opened in 2012, helped establish a more contemporary approach, followed by places including Opso and Estiatorio Milos.
The trend has accelerated since 2024, with new restaurants including Oma, Agora, Pyro, Myrtos, Lagana, Clio, Zylia and Fenix Mayfair joining London’s dining scene.
From familiar classics to regional cooking
The newer restaurants are increasingly focused on the diversity of Greek cuisine rather than the familiar combination of souvlaki, tzatziki and grilled seafood.
Menus are drawing on the different culinary traditions of Greece’s islands, mountains and mainland regions. Some restaurants are also combining Greek recipes with modern techniques and British ingredients.
At Clio, for example, dishes include rabbit stifado, while the restaurant uses a mix of Greek and locally sourced British ingredients. Other new venues are offering contemporary versions of dishes such as spanakopita, souvlaki and octopus.
The interiors are also moving away from traditional blue-and-white décor and stereotypical Greek imagery, putting greater emphasis on modern design and the social nature of Greek dining.
Growing demand for Greek products
The expansion of the restaurant scene is helping increase the availability of Greek ingredients and wines in the UK. Chefs now have easier access to products such as specialist feta, halloumi, olive oil, oregano and dried mint.
Greek wine is also gaining a stronger presence. Some of the new restaurants have extensive selections from Greek producers, giving London diners greater exposure to wines from different parts of the country.
The growing interest is closely linked to the popularity of Greece as a holiday destination among British travellers. As more visitors experience Greek food in the country itself, demand for a broader and more authentic representation of the cuisine is growing in London.
Whether the current wave will become a permanent part of London’s restaurant landscape remains to be seen. For now, however, Greek cuisine is gaining visibility by offering diners something beyond the traditional taverna experience.
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