Telly's Taverna
A beloved Astoria institution serving authentic Greek cuisine with a focus on fresh grilled seafood and a charming garden setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Telly's Taverna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Astoria institution serving authentic Greek cuisine with a focus on fresh grilled seafood and a charming garden setting.
"Incredible, delicious Greek food! Everything was absolutely perfect. "
🎯 Great for Groups
Telly's is a fantastic choice for dining with friends or family.
☀️ Outdoor Garden Dining
The garden terrace is a beautiful spot to enjoy your meal, especially in good weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grilled Octopus
Appetizers
Tender, perfectly grilled octopus that's a must-try starter.
Whole Grilled Fish
Main Courses
Freshly caught branzino, porgy, or dorado, grilled to perfection.
Lemon Potatoes
Sides
A flavorful and zesty side dish that complements any main course.
Spacious Garden Terrace
Outdoor Seating
Enjoy your meal in a charming, airy garden setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Astoria Vibe
Savor Authentic Greek Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Great for Groups
Telly's is a fantastic choice for dining with friends or family.
☀️ Outdoor Garden Dining
The garden terrace is a beautiful spot to enjoy your meal, especially in good weather.
🐟 Fresh Seafood Focus
Don't miss the expertly grilled whole fish and octopus.
📸 Instagrammable Ambiance
The decor and food presentation are perfect for sharing online.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Great for Groups
Telly's is a fantastic choice for dining with friends or family.
☀️ Outdoor Garden Dining
The garden terrace is a beautiful spot to enjoy your meal, especially in good weather.
🐟 Fresh Seafood Focus
Don't miss the expertly grilled whole fish and octopus.
📸 Instagrammable Ambiance
The decor and food presentation are perfect for sharing online.
☕ Authentic Greek Coffee
Try a traditional iced frappe for a refreshing pick-me-up.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Telly's Taverna is consistently praised for its delicious and authentic Greek cuisine, especially its fresh grilled seafood and flavorful mezes. Diners love the beautiful garden terrace and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a go-to spot in Astoria for both casual meals and group gatherings. While generally positive, some visitors note that service can occasionally be slow during peak times.
"Made a quick pit stop here while my flight was delayed and I'm so happy I did. I enjoyed my solo dinner here. Sophia the waitress was a sweetheart. The food was amazing especially the grilled octopus. The place was gorgeous. I will definitely be back!!!"
LeLe
"One of my go to Greek spots in Astoria. Always good quality food that leaves you full and content. Dips are delicious and the meat is always cooked perfect."
Nav M Singh
"the food was delicious!!! we got the octopus to share, whole dorado + whole porgy and sat outside on their lovely terrace. staff is super sweet too, 10/10! can't wait to come back 💖"
Mo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Telly's Taverna is located in Astoria, Queens. You can reach it via subway by taking the N or W train to the Ditmars Blvd station, which is a short walk away. Driving is also an option, but parking in Astoria can be challenging.
Yes, Telly's Taverna is easily accessible by public transport. The Ditmars Blvd subway station (N/W lines) is nearby, making it convenient for visitors from Manhattan and other parts of Queens.
From Manhattan, take the N or W train towards Queens and get off at the Ditmars Blvd station. It's a straightforward ride and a short walk to the restaurant.
Street parking is available in the Astoria neighborhood, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider using a ride-sharing service or public transportation if parking is a concern.
Several bus routes serve the Astoria area, providing additional public transportation options. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient bus lines to reach Telly's Taverna.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or during busy weekend evenings, to ensure you get a table.
Telly's Taverna typically operates during lunch and dinner hours. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening and closing times, as they can vary.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Telly's Taverna. You only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Many restaurants in Astoria offer online reservation systems. It's advisable to check Telly's Taverna's website or their social media pages for links to their reservation platform. [^Telly's Taverna Reservations]
Telly's Taverna has a casual and welcoming dress code. You can expect a relaxed dining experience, so comfortable attire is perfectly fine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular choices include the grilled octopus, whole grilled fish (like branzino or porgy), lemon potatoes, Greek salad, and zucchini croquettes.
Yes, Telly's Taverna offers several vegetarian dishes, including Greek salads, tzatziki, spanakopita, and various dips.
The taverna is known for its fresh, expertly grilled seafood, with options like octopus, jumbo shrimp, calamari, and a selection of whole fish.
Many of the grilled meats and seafood dishes, along with salads and dips, can be naturally gluten-free. It's always best to inform your server about any dietary restrictions.
Desserts often include traditional Greek sweets like loukoumades (honey puffs) and other delightful pastries.
📸 📸 Photography
The whole grilled fish, vibrant Greek salads, and the beautifully presented octopus are highly photogenic. The colorful dips and desserts also make for great shots.
Absolutely! The garden terrace with its natural textures and seaside charm provides a lovely backdrop for photos, especially during the day or at sunset.
Daytime offers natural light for vibrant food shots and garden ambiance. Evenings can be atmospheric with soft lighting, perfect for capturing the restaurant's cozy feel.
The restaurant's decor often features natural textures and seaside elements, creating an inviting and visually appealing environment for photos. +1
Yes, guests are generally welcome to take photos of their food and the restaurant's interior to share their dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger eaters, consider simpler dishes like grilled chicken souvlaki, Greek salad (without olives if preferred), or even some of the dips with pita bread. The lemon potatoes are often a hit with kids too! The staff are generally accommodating, so don't hesitate to ask for simpler preparations if needed.
💰 Budget-Conscious Foodies
Opting for a side of lemon potatoes or a less expensive main like chicken souvlaki can also help manage costs. Visiting during weekday lunch hours might also offer more value. Remember, the quality and authenticity of the food are high, making it a worthwhile experience even on a budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Authentic Greek Experience
The menu is a celebration of Greek culinary heritage. While classics like moussaka and saganaki are available, the real stars are often the freshly grilled seafood and traditional mezes. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked octopus, the succulent whole grilled fish, and the zesty lemon potatoes.
Dining with Friends and Family
When dining with a group, consider ordering a selection of mezes (appetizers) to share, such as the grilled octopus, tzatziki, and spanakopita. This allows everyone to sample a range of flavors. For mains, the whole grilled fish are excellent for sharing, or individuals can opt for their preferred grilled meats or seafood. The friendly staff are accustomed to serving groups and can offer recommendations to ensure everyone has a satisfying experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit