Nestled in the heart of Lancaster, PA, Yorgos Restaurant has been a beloved local institution for over two decades. This family-owned establishment has garnered a reputation for its exceptional quality and diverse menu offerings, seamlessly blending traditional Greek flavors with modern American cuisine.
Since its inception, Yorgos has been a labor of love, founded by a passionate Greek family who sought to share their culinary heritage with the Lancaster community. What began as a small taverna has grown into a thriving restaurant, attracting food enthusiasts from near and far with its authentic Greek specialties and innovative fusion dishes.
Yorgos prides itself on using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every plate is a celebration of flavor and quality. From the succulent souvlaki skewers to the mouthwatering gyros, the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity shines through in every bite. At the same time, Yorgos embraces culinary innovation, crafting unique dishes that blend Greek traditions with contemporary techniques and flavors.
Casual Pub Menu
Yorgos’ casual pub menu offers a delightful array of comfort foods and classic American favorites, perfect for a relaxed dining experience. Start your culinary journey with a selection of hearty soups, such as the creamy tomato basil or the classic French onion, brimming with flavors that will warm your soul.
Indulge in a variety of appetizing starters, including the crispy fried calamari, served with a tangy lemon garlic aioli, or the mouthwatering spinach and artichoke dip, accompanied by warm pita bread for dipping. For those seeking a lighter option, the fresh garden salad or the classic Caesar salad are sure to please.
Flatbreads are a highlight of the pub menu, with options ranging from the classic margherita to the innovative barbecue chicken flatbread, topped with tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and a blend of melted cheeses. Customize your flatbread by adding your favorite toppings, creating a personalized masterpiece.
Burger enthusiasts will revel in Yorgos’ selection of juicy, hand-crafted burgers. The classic Yorgos Burger, topped with lettuce, tomato, and onion, is a crowd-pleaser, while the bacon and cheddar burger offers a delightful twist with smoky bacon and melted cheddar cheese. For those seeking a unique flavor, the Mediterranean burger, topped with feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, and grilled vegetables, is a must-try.
Customization options abound, allowing diners to craft their perfect burger by selecting from a variety of cheese choices, toppings, and sauces. Pair your burger with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad for a truly satisfying meal.
Among the popular items on the casual pub menu are the buffalo chicken flatbread, featuring spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and a blend of cheeses, and the classic Reuben sandwich, piled high with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and tangy Russian dressing on grilled rye bread.
Greek Specialties
Yorgos takes immense pride in its authentic Greek offerings, transporting diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. The menu boasts a tantalizing array of traditional Greek specialties, meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients and time-honored recipes.
At the heart of Yorgos’ Greek cuisine lies the iconic souvlaki, a beloved staple that has graced the tables of generations. Tender chunks of marinated meat, expertly grilled to perfection, are skewered and served with a vibrant Greek salad, warm pita bread, and the restaurant’s signature tzatziki sauce – a cool and creamy blend of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic.
Another highlight is the gyro, a classic Greek sandwich that has won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Thinly sliced, succulent meat is carefully stacked and wrapped in a warm pita, accompanied by a medley of fresh tomatoes, crisp onions, and the tangy zing of tzatziki sauce. Each bite delivers an explosion of flavors that transport you to the bustling streets of Athens.
Beyond these iconic dishes, Yorgos offers a diverse selection of Greek entrees that celebrate the country’s rich culinary heritage. From the hearty moussaka, a layered casserole of eggplant, ground meat, and creamy béchamel sauce, to the fragrant spanakopita, a flaky phyllo pastry stuffed with a savory blend of spinach and feta cheese, every dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity.
What sets Yorgos apart is the unwavering dedication to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The vegetables are locally sourced, the meats are carefully selected, and the spices are imported directly from Greece, ensuring that each dish captures the essence of traditional Greek flavors. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Greek cuisine or a curious newcomer, Yorgos promises an unforgettable culinary journey through the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean.
Steak and Seafood Entrees
Yorgos’ menu features an impressive selection of steak and seafood entrees, catering to diverse palates. For meat lovers, the restaurant offers a variety of premium cuts, expertly grilled or pan-seared to perfection. The signature New York Strip Steak, aged for maximum tenderness and flavor, is a customer favorite, served with your choice of sides and sauces.
Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in fresh catches prepared with care and creativity. The Pan-Seared Salmon is a standout dish, featuring a succulent fillet served over a bed of seasonal vegetables and topped with a tantalizing lemon-dill butter sauce. For those seeking a heartier option, the Grilled Swordfish Steak is a must-try, accompanied by a vibrant mango salsa that perfectly complements the smoky flavors.
Yorgos’ culinary team takes pride in their preparation styles, ensuring each dish is cooked to order and presented with impeccable attention to detail. Whether you prefer your steak seared to a perfect medium-rare or your seafood grilled with a delicate char, the chefs will craft your meal to your exact specifications.
Signature and Pasta Dishes
At Yorgos, the culinary team takes pride in crafting unique and creative dishes that showcase their culinary expertise. The signature entrees are a true testament to the chef’s passion for blending flavors and pushing the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
One of the standout dishes is the Lamb Shank Youvetsi, a slow-roasted lamb shank served with orzo pasta in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is a perfect fusion of Greek and Mediterranean flavors, with the tender lamb falling off the bone and the orzo soaking up the aromatic sauce.
For pasta lovers, the Seafood Linguine is a must-try. Fresh linguine is tossed with a medley of sautéed shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a white wine and garlic butter sauce. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Vegetarians will delight in the Roasted Vegetable Lasagna, a masterpiece of layered pasta, roasted vegetables, and a creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is a testament to the chef’s ability to create a satisfying and flavorful meatless option without compromising on taste.
For those seeking a heartier pasta dish, the Beef Stroganoff is a classic favorite with a twist. Tender strips of beef are sautéed with mushrooms and onions, then tossed with egg noodles in a rich, creamy sauce infused with brandy and Dijon mustard.
No matter your preference, Yorgos’ signature and pasta dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Sides, Salads, and Desserts
No meal at Yorgos would be complete without indulging in their tempting array of sides, salads, and desserts. The side dish options are a perfect complement to any entrée, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
For those seeking a lighter accompaniment, Yorgos presents a diverse selection of salads. From the classic Greek salad, bursting with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and tangy vinaigrette, to the refreshing Horiatiki salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions, there’s a salad to suit every palate. The Caesar salad is a crowd-pleaser, with its crisp romaine lettuce, savory Parmesan, and signature dressing.
Dessert enthusiasts will find themselves in a sweet paradise at Yorgos. The restaurant takes immense pride in its house-made desserts, crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of Greek flair. The baklava, a traditional Greek pastry layered with phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honeyed syrup, is a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Greece. The galaktoboureko, a semolina-based custard pie with a crispy phyllo crust, is another beloved dessert that melts in your mouth.
For those with a penchant for chocolate, the decadent chocolate lava cake is sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Yorgos also offers a rotating selection of seasonal desserts, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to tantalize your taste buds.
Wine and Craft Beer Selection
Yorgos takes great pride in its extensive wine list and impressive craft beer offerings, curated to complement the diverse menu and cater to every palate. The restaurant’s knowledgeable staff can guide you through the best pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Extensive Wine List
Yorgos boasts an impressive wine selection, featuring a wide range of varietals from renowned wine regions around the world. From bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec to refreshing whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, the list offers something for every taste preference. The restaurant also features a rotating selection of unique and hard-to-find wines, ensuring a constantly evolving and exciting experience for wine enthusiasts.
Craft Beer Offerings
For beer lovers, Yorgos has curated a carefully selected lineup of craft brews from local and regional breweries. The ever-changing tap list features a variety of styles, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal offerings. Whether you prefer a hoppy and citrusy IPA or a rich and robust porter, you’ll find a craft beer to perfectly complement your meal.
House Specials and Pairings
Yorgos takes great pride in its house specials, which showcase the restaurant’s creativity and expertise in pairing beverages with specific dishes. The knowledgeable staff can recommend the perfect wine or beer to accompany your meal, ensuring a harmonious and elevated dining experience. From pairing a bold Cabernet Sauvignon with a juicy steak to matching a crisp lager with a Greek gyro, Yorgos offers a true culinary journey for the senses.
Signature Cocktails and Beverages
Beyond its extensive wine and craft beer offerings, Yorgos boasts a creative cocktail menu that showcases the mixologists’ talents. The signature cocktails are carefully crafted with premium spirits and fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delightful and refreshing experience with every sip.
One of the standout cocktails is the “Grecian Sunset,” a vibrant blend of premium vodka, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs, topped with a splash of pomegranate syrup. This refreshing and visually stunning cocktail captures the essence of a Greek summer evening.
For those who prefer a bolder flavor profile, the “Ouzo Sour” is a must-try. This unique concoction combines the iconic Greek spirit, ouzo, with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a frothy egg white foam, creating a tantalizing balance of flavors and textures.
Yorgos also offers a rotating selection of seasonal cocktails, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try. During the warmer months, you might find the “Watermelon Frosé,” a delightful blend of rosé wine, watermelon purée, and a hint of mint, served over crushed ice. As the seasons change, the cocktail menu evolves to showcase the freshest ingredients and flavors.
For those seeking non-alcoholic options, Yorgos offers a variety of refreshing mocktails and specialty beverages. The “Greek Lemonade” is a tangy and refreshing blend of freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and a hint of rose water, providing a taste of the Mediterranean without the alcohol.
No matter your preference, Yorgos’ beverage menu offers a diverse and creative selection, ensuring that every guest can find the perfect accompaniment to their meal or simply enjoy a crafted cocktail in the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant.
conclusion
Stepping into Yorgos, you’re immediately transported to a warm and inviting atmosphere that blends the rich heritage of Greek culture with a modern, upscale dining experience.
The restaurant’s interior design seamlessly combines traditional elements like exposed brick walls, rustic wood accents, and vibrant Mediterranean colors with contemporary touches, creating a harmonious and inviting ambiance.
Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the dining room, from the carefully curated artwork adorning the walls to the soft lighting that casts a warm glow over the space. Comfortable seating arrangements, including cozy booths and spacious tables, ensure a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience for parties of all sizes.
Yorgos takes pride in providing exceptional customer service, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff dedicated to ensuring each guest feels welcomed and well-cared for.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular patron, the friendly and accommodating team goes above and beyond to make your experience truly memorable.
The restaurant’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Yorgos has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named one of the top Greek restaurants in the region by local publications.
Additionally, the establishment has received praise for its extensive wine list, earning a coveted Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for several consecutive years.