Yefsi Estiatorio: Refined Greek Dining on the Upper East Side
Store Overview
Yefsi Estiatorio, located at 1481 York Ave, Manhattan, NY 10075 (📞 212-535-0293), is an elegant Greek restaurant in Lenox Hill on the Upper East Side. The name Yefsi means “taste” in Greek—a fitting tribute to its menu philosophy. The restaurant exterior is understated yet stylish, with soft Mediterranean-inspired signage that complements the cozy, candlelit interiors.
Inside, the ambiance balances romantic intimacy and lively energy, with low lighting, flickering candles on each table, and authentic Greek décor. It attracts a mix of Upper East Side locals, professionals, and families, as well as visitors seeking upscale yet approachable Greek dining. Yefsi is active online through its website, Instagram, Facebook, and offers online ordering, delivery, and reservations via Resy.
Menu & Services
Yefsi specializes in classic and contemporary Greek cuisine with a focus on seafood and meze. Popular highlights include:
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Lamb Chops (tender, char-grilled, a house favorite)
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Horiatiki Traditional Greek Salad (with feta, olives, and ripe tomatoes)
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Calamari – $17+
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Saganaki (pan-seared cheese) – $16+
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Chicken Kebab and Chicken Sandwich – $15+
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Grilled Octopus and Swordfish entrées
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Baklava and Galaktoboureko – $9 desserts
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Mousaka and Befteki for hearty traditional fare
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A strong wine and cocktail program, including Malbec, Greek wines, and Mimosas
Yefsi is open for weekday lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner service, making it versatile for both casual and celebratory dining. Prices average $50–100 per person.
Review Summary
Positives:
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“Great service, tasty food, and lovely authentic Greek décor and ambiance.” – Nektar Giannios
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“The Greek salad was delish as well as the halloumi and pita/dip plate.” – Rebecca Toth
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“Very vibrant atmosphere with low lighting and lit candles on each table.” – Tom
Criticisms:
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Can be busy and noisy during peak hours—reservations recommended.
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Some diners note that portion sizes of meze plates are modest relative to price.
Human Commentary: Yefsi Estiatorio is a rare Upper East Side restaurant that delivers both warmth and sophistication. It’s priced for a higher-end experience, but the blend of authenticity, service, and atmosphere makes it a standout for date nights, family dinners, and celebrations. In true NYC fashion, it balances intimate fine dining with neighborhood accessibility.
Location & Accessibility
Yefsi Estiatorio’s York Avenue location benefits from steady traffic, tied to both residential and cultural landmarks nearby:
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Washington Square Park – While downtown, NYU students often venture uptown for group dinners, adding to Yefsi’s brunch and dinner crowd.
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The Comedy Cellar – Comedy lovers making a night of it can pair downtown shows with uptown dinners, reinforcing Yefsi’s role as a destination restaurant.
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SoHo Shopping District – Shoppers moving between Midtown and the Upper East Side often land at Yefsi for post-retail dining.
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Friends Apartment (Bedford St.) – Tourists who check off bucket-list TV spots often seek authentic NYC-meets-Mediterranean dining uptown.
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Blue Note Jazz Club – Late-night jazz-goers may pair a dinner at Yefsi with a downtown show, creating cross-borough dining flow.
Transit: The restaurant is easily reached by the Q train at 72nd Street or crosstown buses. Street parking is limited but available.
Genius Marketing Analysis
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GI (Genius Insight): Yefsi thrives as both a neighborhood favorite and a destination restaurant, delivering comfort with refinement.
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MDA (Marketing Action): Highlight weekday prix-fixe menus, Greek wine pairings, and curated meze tastings to draw in new and repeat customers.
Genius Ideas (10)
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Weeknight Prix-Fixe Menus – 3-course dinner at a set price to attract professionals.
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Greek Wine Flights – Introduce guests to lesser-known Greek varietals.
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Date Night Specials – Pair lamb chops with wine for two at a bundled price.
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Weekend Brunch Promotions – Include Greek twists on brunch cocktails (e.g., ouzo spritz).
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Cooking Demo Nights – Feature dishes like saganaki or galaktoboureko live.
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Loyalty Program for Locals – Rewards after multiple visits, encouraging neighborhood regulars.
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Seasonal Outdoor Dining Events – Al fresco Greek dining in summer with live music.
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Partnership with UES Cultural Institutions – Museum-goers get a discount on post-visit meals.
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Instagramable Moments – Highlight candlelit dining and meze spreads with a photo contest.
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Holiday Feasts – Traditional Greek holiday menus for Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s.
Conclusion
Yefsi Estiatorio is more than a Greek restaurant—it’s a taste of Greece, reimagined for NYC’s Upper East Side. Its combination of authentic flavors, warm service, and refined atmosphere makes it a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s dining scene. For locals and visitors alike, it’s not just dinner, but a culinary journey into Greek hospitality.
FAQ
Q: What are the hours?
A: Yefsi opens at 12 PM daily, serving lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Q: What’s the price range?
A: Around $50–100 per person.
Q: Does Yefsi offer delivery or takeout?
A: Yes—via its website and apps, with occasional discounts.
Q: What dishes are must-tries?
A: Lamb chops, grilled octopus, saganaki, baklava, and horiatiki salad.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
A: Yes—it’s warm and welcoming, though peak dinner hours can be lively.
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