CUSTOMER REVIEWS

What Customers Say

Trusted by happy customers

4.5 out of 5

Based on 79 reviews on Google

“We were in Chicago for the weekend and stopped here on our way home to Cincinnati after discovering it on Seed Oil Scout. I cannot express enough how incredible this place is. I am extremely passionate about nutrition, ingredient quality, and the belief that we should never have to sacrifice our health to enjoy an amazing meal. I seek out restaurants that share those values, and Ela didn’t just meet my expectations, it completely exceeded them. Without a doubt, this was the most authentic Greek food we have ever had in the States. Every single bite was phenomenal, but what made this experience so special went far beyond the food itself. The owner, who is from Greece, came over and spent time talking with us. He shared his own experiences with gut issues and explained that, despite those struggles, he can eat everything he prepares at his restaurant without experiencing the same problems. Hearing him speak so passionately about the quality of his ingredients, the way food is prepared, and the connection between what we eat and how we feel was genuinely inspiring. Beyond the incredible food and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, you can actually feel the love and intention poured into this place. The hospitality, the pride, the attention to detail, everything about it felt so authentic. It’s rare to find somewhere that cares this deeply about both the food they serve and the people they serve it to. If you want a little taste of the Greek islands right here in Chicago, please do yourself a favor and go here. Places like this deserve to be celebrated and supported. I wish we lived closer but will absolutely be back! Pro tip: save room for any of the frozen Greek yogurts and Bougatsa”

Emily Moreira · 2026-11-01

“This new spot was cozy, clean, and had delicious food. Service was great and people there are friendly. We ordered the spanakopita flat bread which was insanely delicious. That is a must if you love olives and cheese. I ordered the steak bowl and everything it came with was so fresh. Loved the dill rice and generous amount of fresh soft bread. The meat was tender. I suggest getting an extra skewer because 1 doesn’t seem to be enough. They’re small pieces if you’re a big eater. I was fine with one. But genuinely great quality and fresh food. I know they cook all their food in good quality clean oils. We ended it off with their Froyo dessert. I got the pistachio one which was so good. It did not taste artificial at all. It was refreshing and I will absolutely be going back to try their other food items.”

Sargina Taliya · 2026-10-26

“This new restaurant in Old Town is a refreshing spot to visit, especially for those working nearby. I love their pitas, especially the pork gyro, and the freshness of their ingredients. I had such a great experience that I decided to bring my family along. I highly recommend this place and would definitely visit again. However, the service at the front could be improved. It would be great if the staff could be more helpful in explaining the ordering process and providing information about the dine-in experience.”

Lily Wu · 2026-10-09

“Amazing experience! From the moment you walk in, Ela Taverna makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a stylish taverna in Greece. Every dish was full of bold, vibrant flavor. The Mastiha Spritz was a standout, wow!, and the zucchini fritters were so delicious we could have kept ordering more. Ela Taverna truly knows how to deliver warm Greek hospitality alongside incredible food. You will not be disappointed, come ready for a Greekalicious experience. Opa!”

Angela Katris · 2026-09-29

“Had a great experience at Ela today. We started with pork gyros which were so good. The pita was light, crisp and packed with flavor. My daughter devoured hers too. The interiors are fresh & airy, reminiscent of a sunny Greek day. You can’t leave without their very special, authentic Greek yogurts: we had sour cherry (yum) and pistachio (addictive). Service was prompt and kind. can’t wait to return to try other items.”

Holly Bell · 2026-10-23

“Very happy with our experience at Ela. We ordered the Taramosalata, Pork Gyro Pita, Horiatiki Salad, and Honey+Sea Salt Greek Yogurt . All items were exceptional. The fries are cooked in beef tallow and have an excellent flavor. The service was relatively slow, but it was also the first week of opening, so that is to be expected. The greek yogurt is also quite expensive, but we really enjoyed it.”

John Gifford · 2026-10-10

“This place is just what we needed in Old Town! Reminded me of the food in Greece; the atmosphere, the food and just the vibe. The meatballs, shrimp, and beef tallow fries were on point. And just when I thought I had the best food, I tried the frozen Greek yogurt and OMG!! I crave it everyday. This will definitely be a go to for quality and convenient food. A must try!”

Alina DerAvanesian · 2026-10-08

“(Translated by Google) Best gyros, freddo cappuccino, and Greek frozen yoghurt. Great, casual vibe perfect for a quick bite or a long meal with friends. Thank you for your hospitality! (Original) Best gyros, freddo cappuccino, and Greek frozen yoghurt. Great, casual vibe perfect for a quick bite or a long meal with friends. Σας ευχαριστώ για τη φιλοξενία!”

Juliana Kartsimas · 2026-10-18

“Very impressive execution of the basics. The traditional Greek dishes with high quality ingredients set this place apart. Their Greek meatballs, pork skewers and zucchini fritters were some of the highlights. Can’t wait to go back - highly recommend this new staple in Old Town neighborhood Chicago.”

Nick Trovas · 2026-09-28

“A+ for vibes and design, food was good overall, and the place was very busy. Every table full. My only recommendation would be to remove table 12 or replace it with a two seat table so those standing for take out have a little more place to stand. I shall return!”

Grant Ludema · 2026-10-10

“First time coming in - the staff was warm and the ordering process was so easy. The food is so fresh and the flavors are amazing! The frozen greek yogurt is the best in the city and it's a generous portion! I will definitely be here weekly (if not more).”

Rachel Nartatez · 2026-10-23

“(Translated by Google) Finally espresso freddo and Greek coffee!!! Thanks for the experience! I can't wait to try the spinach pie! (Original) Επιτέλους espresso freddo και ελληνικός καφές!!! Ευχαριστώ για την εμπειρία! Ανυπομονώ να δοκιμάσω τη σπανακόπιτα!”

Sofia Vaitsas · 2026-10-23

“My fiancée and I stopped here on a little work trip to Chicago. Hands down the best Greek restaurant we have ever been to. The owner came over and chatted with us and you can tell he is someone who actually cares about the customers experience and health.”

Hayden king · 2026-11-01

“Delicious, fresh Mediterranean food! Everything tasted fresh and flavorful. I especially loved the chicken bowl with rice and hummus, it was very tasty and satisfying! The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were amazing.”

Creative Rituals · 2026-10-13

“Might as well be back in Greece. As a Greek American who has lived in Chicago my whole life, I can easily say this restaurant allows me to feel closest to my Greek roots out of any other Greek restaurant in the Chicago area.”

Eli Drake · 2026-10-09

“(Translated by Google) Excellent food, very beautiful design and kind and smiling staff. I highly recommend it. (Original) Τέλειο φαγητό , πολύ όμορφο design και ευγενικό και χαμογελαστό προσωπικό . Το συνιστώ ανεπιφύλακτα”

KYRIAKOS TOGIAS · 2026-10-15

“Yes yes yes. A much needed addition to Old Town. The gyro plate, lamb bowl, bifteki, caesar salad, and assortment of frozen yogurts were all delicious. Will become a regular place for me. Good job.”

Luke Hansen · 2026-10-13

“Food is fantastic and the staff is very friendly and attentive. It’s like I was back in Greece. Their Freddo is also very good. I highly recommend dining there or take out”

Joey Ziegelman · 2026-10-17

“Came here to grab food with some friends. Our server, Rob, remembered all of our names and was super kind and funny. He’s got my vote for Employee of the month.”

Nick LeMaster · 2026-10-26

“Loved my experience. Loved the menu choices. Food quite delicious. Loved the vibe. Will definitely come back. Only wish I had one closer where I live.”

S Hurley · 2026-10-19

“We were in Chicago for the weekend and stopped here on our way home to Cincinnati after discovering it on Seed Oil Scout. I cannot express enough how incredible this place is. I am extremely passionate about nutrition, ingredient quality, and the belief that we should never have to sacrifice our health to enjoy an amazing meal. I seek out restaurants that share those values, and Ela didn’t just meet my expectations, it completely exceeded them. Without a doubt, this was the most authentic Greek food we have ever had in the States. Every single bite was phenomenal, but what made this experience so special went far beyond the food itself. The owner, who is from Greece, came over and spent time talking with us. He shared his own experiences with gut issues and explained that, despite those struggles, he can eat everything he prepares at his restaurant without experiencing the same problems. Hearing him speak so passionately about the quality of his ingredients, the way food is prepared, and the connection between what we eat and how we feel was genuinely inspiring. Beyond the incredible food and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, you can actually feel the love and intention poured into this place. The hospitality, the pride, the attention to detail, everything about it felt so authentic. It’s rare to find somewhere that cares this deeply about both the food they serve and the people they serve it to. If you want a little taste of the Greek islands right here in Chicago, please do yourself a favor and go here. Places like this deserve to be celebrated and supported. I wish we lived closer but will absolutely be back! Pro tip: save room for any of the frozen Greek yogurts and Bougatsa”