Syros Greek & Italian Restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience that masterfully blends the rich culinary traditions of Greece and Italy. Nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, this restaurant invites guests to embark on a flavorful journey where fresh ingredients and authentic recipes come to life.
Whether you crave the bold, sun-kissed tastes of Mediterranean Greece or the comforting, rustic flavors of Italy, Syros delivers a menu that celebrates both cultures with elegance and passion.
The atmosphere at Syros is warm and inviting, reflecting the hospitality that defines both Greek and Italian cultures. Diners are treated to an extensive selection of dishes ranging from classic Greek meze to hearty Italian pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
Each dish is crafted with care, highlighting seasonal produce and traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations. The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse palates, ensuring that every visit is both satisfying and memorable.
Syros’ commitment to authenticity and quality makes it a standout choice for food enthusiasts looking to explore the best of two extraordinary cuisines under one roof. The restaurant’s attention to detail, from ingredient sourcing to plating, elevates the dining experience beyond mere sustenance to an unforgettable celebration of flavor and culture.
Appetizers and Meze
The appetizer selection at Syros Greek & Italian Restaurant sets the tone for a meal rich in tradition and taste. Featuring an array of Greek meze alongside Italian antipasti, these starters are perfect for sharing and designed to awaken the palate.
Greek meze options emphasize fresh ingredients such as olives, feta cheese, and tzatziki, combining simple flavors that pack a punch. Italian antipasti include marinated vegetables, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses, showcasing the rustic charm of Italy’s regional specialties.
Popular choices include the classic Greek Dolmades—grape leaves stuffed with seasoned rice—and the Italian Bruschetta topped with ripe tomatoes and basil. These dishes highlight the restaurant’s commitment to blending authentic ingredients with vibrant presentation.
- Greek Dolmades: Grape leaves filled with herbed rice, lemon, and olive oil
- Tzatziki: Creamy yogurt dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Grilled bread topped with fresh tomato, basil, and garlic
- Antipasto Misto: A curated platter of Italian cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables
Comparing Greek Meze and Italian Antipasti
Aspect | Greek Meze | Italian Antipasti |
Ingredients | Olives, feta, yogurt, herbs, vegetables | Cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables |
Flavor Profile | Fresh, tangy, herbaceous | Rich, savory, sometimes smoky |
Serving Style | Shared small plates, dips | Platter-style, sliced portions |
Typical Accompaniments | Pita bread, lemon wedges | Grilled bread, olive oil drizzle |
“The appetizers at Syros are not just starters—they’re an invitation to experience the heart of Mediterranean hospitality.”
Soups and Salads
Syros offers a thoughtfully curated selection of soups and salads that reflect both Greek freshness and Italian simplicity. These lighter options are crafted to complement the main courses while providing a refreshing balance of flavors.
Greek soups like Fasolada, a hearty bean soup, offer warmth and comfort with traditional herbs and olive oil. On the Italian side, minestrone soup showcases seasonal vegetables and beans simmered to perfection.
Salads range from the iconic Greek salad, bursting with ripe tomatoes and olives, to Italian Caprese, featuring fresh mozzarella and basil.
Each salad is dressed with house-made vinaigrettes or traditional olive oil and lemon, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them. These dishes are perfect for health-conscious diners seeking authentic tastes without compromising nourishment.
- Fasolada: Traditional Greek white bean soup with vegetables and olive oil
- Italian Minestrone: Seasonal vegetable soup with pasta and beans
- Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, feta cheese
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze
Nutritional Highlights
Dish | Calories | Key Nutrients | Dietary Notes |
Fasolada | 180 kcal per serving | Fiber, Protein, Iron | Gluten-free, Vegan |
Minestrone | 220 kcal per serving | Vitamins A & C, Fiber | Vegetarian, Can be Vegan |
Greek Salad | 150 kcal per serving | Antioxidants, Calcium | Gluten-free, Vegetarian |
Caprese Salad | 250 kcal per serving | Protein, Calcium | Gluten-free, Vegetarian |
“Freshness is the secret behind every soup and salad at Syros, ensuring each bite is both nourishing and flavorful.”
Main Courses: Greek Specialties
The main course section devoted to Greek specialties showcases the depth and diversity of Greece’s culinary heritage. From succulent grilled meats to savory pies, these dishes highlight traditional flavors elevated by expert preparation.
Signature items include Moussaka, a layered casserole of eggplant, potatoes, and spiced meat topped with béchamel sauce. Another favorite is Souvlaki, tender skewers of marinated pork or chicken grilled to perfection.
Syros also offers fresh seafood dishes inspired by the Aegean Sea, such as grilled octopus and shrimp saganaki.
The use of extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs like oregano and dill, and quality meats ensures each dish bursts with authenticity. Many recipes have been handed down through generations, preserving the essence of Greek home cooking.
- Moussaka: Eggplant and potato layers with spiced ground meat and creamy béchamel
- Souvlaki: Marinated meat skewers served with pita and tzatziki
- Grilled Octopus: Tender octopus seasoned with lemon and herbs
- Shrimp Saganaki: Shrimp cooked in tomato sauce with feta cheese
Cooking Techniques
Greek cuisine at Syros emphasizes grilling, baking, and slow-cooking methods that enhance natural flavors. Grilling imparts a smoky aroma to meats and seafood, while slow-cooking allows spices to deeply penetrate dishes like moussaka.
The restaurant uses traditional clay ovens and grills to achieve authentic textures and tastes. This dedication to classic techniques ensures that every bite transports diners to the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece.
“Our Greek main courses are a celebration of time-honored recipes, cooked with passion and respect for tradition.”
Main Courses: Italian Classics
The Italian main courses at Syros embrace the soul of Italy’s regional kitchens, offering hearty pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful risottos. These dishes are crafted with precision and an eye for balance, making each meal a comforting yet sophisticated experience.
Pastas like Spaghetti Carbonara and Penne Arrabbiata exemplify the simplicity and intensity of Italian cooking, relying on a handful of quality ingredients to create bold flavors. The wood-fired pizzas are topped with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and a variety of traditional toppings, baked to perfection with a crisp crust.
Risottos incorporate seasonal produce and rich stocks, providing a creamy texture and depth of flavor. Syros also offers meat and seafood entrees inspired by Italian coastal and countryside traditions, ensuring variety and appeal to all tastes.
- Spaghetti Carbonara: Pasta with eggs, pancetta, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper
- Penne Arrabbiata: Penne pasta with spicy tomato sauce and garlic
- Margherita Pizza: Classic pizza with tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil
- Mushroom Risotto: Creamy risotto with wild mushrooms and Parmesan
Ingredient Sourcing
Syros prioritizes sourcing ingredients from both local producers and trusted Italian suppliers. This combination ensures freshness while maintaining authenticity.
Imported cheeses, cured meats, and San Marzano tomatoes are staples in many dishes.
For herbs and vegetables, the restaurant partners with local farmers to incorporate seasonal and sustainable produce. This approach not only supports the community but also enhances the quality and flavor of each dish.
“Every Italian main course is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients prepared with care.”
Wood-Fired Pizzas
At Syros, wood-fired pizzas are a highlight, celebrated for their perfect crusts and vibrant toppings. The pizzas reflect the Neapolitan tradition, featuring a thin, chewy base with a slight char from the high-heat oven.
Each pizza is handcrafted, starting with slow-fermented dough that yields a light texture. Toppings range from classic Margherita to more inventive combinations that fuse Greek and Italian flavors, such as a pizza topped with feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
The restaurant offers several vegetarian and meat options, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy. The wood-fired technique imparts a smoky aroma and crisp texture that elevate the pizza beyond the ordinary.
- Margherita: Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil
- Feta & Olive: Tomato base topped with Greek feta, Kalamata olives, oregano
- Prosciutto & Arugula: Mozzarella, prosciutto, fresh arugula, shaved Parmesan
- Four Cheese: Mozzarella, gorgonzola, Parmesan, ricotta
Pizza Baking Comparison
Feature | Wood-Fired Pizza | Conventional Oven Pizza |
Cooking Temperature | 800°F – 900°F (427°C – 482°C) | 400°F – 500°F (204°C – 260°C) |
Cooking Time | 60-90 seconds | 10-15 minutes |
Crust Texture | Light, airy, slightly charred | Denser, less charred |
Flavor Profile | Smoky, complex | Less smoky, more dough-centric |
“The wood-fired oven is the heart of our pizza kitchen, delivering authentic flavor and texture unmatched by conventional cooking.”
Desserts
Syros rounds out the dining experience with a selection of decadent desserts that pay homage to both Greek and Italian sweet traditions. These treats offer the perfect balance of sweetness and richness to conclude the meal.
Greek desserts like Baklava feature layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and drenched in honey syrup, creating a delightful textural contrast. Italian classics such as Tiramisu showcase creamy mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers, delivering indulgence with every bite.
The restaurant also offers gelato in various flavors, made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients. Seasonal fruit-based desserts highlight the natural sweetness of Mediterranean produce, providing lighter options for those seeking something less rich.
- Baklava: Phyllo pastry layered with nuts and honey
- Tiramisu: Espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream
- Gelato: Variety of flavors made fresh daily
- Lemon Semifreddo: Frozen lemon mousse with a crisp almond base
Sweet Traditions
Greek desserts often focus on nuts, honey, and phyllo pastry, emphasizing natural sweetness and texture. Italian desserts tend to balance creamy elements with coffee or chocolate, creating complex yet harmonious flavors.
Syros expertly combines these approaches, offering desserts that feel both familiar and unique. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures that each dessert is beautifully presented and satisfying.
“Our desserts capture the essence of Mediterranean sweetness, crafted to leave a lasting impression.”
Wine and Beverage Selection
The beverage program at Syros complements the menu with a curated wine list and a variety of traditional and modern drinks. The selection includes Greek and Italian wines, carefully chosen to enhance the flavors of the dishes.
Greek wines such as Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko offer crisp acidity and fruit-forward profiles, pairing well with seafood and grilled meats. Italian varietals like Chianti and Pinot Grigio provide balance and elegance alongside pasta and pizza.
Beyond wine, Syros offers classic Mediterranean beverages including ouzo and limoncello, as well as a range of cocktails inspired by these flavors. Non-alcoholic options feature fresh fruit juices and traditional Greek coffee.
- Greek Assyrtiko: Crisp white wine, citrus notes
- Italian Chianti: Medium-bodied red, cherry and earth flavors
- Ouzo: Anise-flavored aperitif
- Limoncello: Sweet lemon liqueur served chilled
Wine Pairing Guide
Dish Type | Recommended Wine | Flavor Match |
Grilled Seafood | Greek Assyrtiko | Crisp, citrusy to complement seafood flavors |
Red Meat | Italian Chianti | Earthy, medium tannins to balance richness |
Light Pasta or Salads | Pinot Grigio | Light, refreshing acidity |
Desserts | Moscato d’Asti | Sweet, aromatic pairing for sweets |
“Choosing the right wine can transform a meal into an extraordinary experience, and our list is crafted to do exactly that.”
Conclusion
Syros Greek & Italian Restaurant stands as a culinary bridge between two rich Mediterranean cultures, offering a menu that honors tradition while embracing creativity. The careful curation of dishes showcases the best of Greek and Italian cuisines, from vibrant appetizers and comforting mains to indulgent desserts and thoughtfully paired wines.
The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity is evident in every detail—from the sourcing of fresh, quality ingredients to the use of time-honored cooking techniques. Whether savoring the smoky char of a wood-fired pizza, the fragrant layers of a classic moussaka, or the delicate sweetness of baklava, guests experience a genuine taste of the Mediterranean’s diverse flavors.
Syros invites diners to not just eat but to celebrate culture, community, and the joy of sharing exceptional food. Each visit promises a journey filled with warm hospitality, vibrant tastes, and memorable moments that linger long after the last bite.