Review: Restaurant Grecia

Thanks to my sister, I recently found out about and visited a new Greek restaurant in Helsinki, Ravintola Grecia. Situated conveniently at the start of Katajanokka in Helsinki (close to the market square), the first thing you notice when entering the place is that it’s huge. Well, maybe not huge huge, but definately bigger than your average restaurant in Helsinki. On a weekday evening there weren’t many people around, but it’s to be expected as it was just recently opened. The interior decoration is somewhat schizophrenic with (IMO, anyway) ugly chandeliers and darkish general colors, but on the other hand nice paintings of Greek views on the walls. Authentic Greek music played on the background and it was apparent that the place at times also has live music performances.

The most important parts, however, were right on the mark. Being the designated driver of the day, I had to skip the Ouzo that was appropriately suggested as an appetizer. The food was delicious and reasonably priced; my choice of Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki was close to perfect and a hearty portion of it at that. So big a portion, in fact, that I had to skip the dessert also (which is both good and bad), but had we spent a longer time there it would’ve fit in also. On my second visit today (I suppose it says something about a restaurant to visit it twice within one week) I chose the Grecia Special, tender beef with a cheese sauce and onions. Also excellent. And also such a big portion that we had to share a dessert with my wife.

Service was also impeccable; fast and friendly. My only concern about the restaurant is that compared to its size, not enough customers were in there on either visit. While this is understandable for a new place, I hope they find their clientele quickly enough and stick around.

Anyway, highly recommended.