Dafni Greek Taverna

Our dining expectations are low this close to Times Square, but refreshing Dafni stands out thanks to flavorful Greek classics served in a relaxing dining room. A meze of melitzanosalata—roasted eggplant mashed with garlic, olive oil and lemon—packed a smoky-sour wallop, while zucchini fritters laced with onion, mint and melted bits of salty kefalograviera cheese were hot, crisp and flavorful. Among the entrées, we preferred moist grilled whole striped bass to the overcooked bifteki (beef ground with oregano, garlic and mint). But Dafni’s greatest selling point isn’t the food, it’s the setting: Dark-wood beams, white walls and laurel wreaths make for a welcome escape from the crowds and pulsing neon just down the block.