Kokkari serves Hellenic cuisine—essentially an inventive and seasonal update of traditional Greek—that may indeed qualify as “food of the gods,” as it’s described. Start with marithes tiganites (crispy smelt with garlic-potato skordalia and lemon, or “fries with eyes,” as some folks affectionately call them) or some of the best grilled octopus in town. Then work your way up to traditional moussaka—a rich, creamy baked casserole of eggplant, lamb ragout and béchamel—and their famed lamb chops. Get the galatkoboureko and loukoumades for dessert—you saved room, didn't you? The restaurant has a rustic and welcoming feeling; it’s always popular for lunch and dinner, and fantastic for groups and celebrations (get a large fish for the table). It’s one of those San Francisco classics that always feels right, no matter the occasion.
There’s more to Greek cooking than gyros, octopus and tzatziki. Just as the best Italian restaurants in America offer more than just pasta and pizza, the country’s top Greek spots showcase a mix of tradition and modern innovation. From a small plates stunner from Jose Andres—who’s no stranger to our best restaurants in DC list—to one of the best seafood restaurants in America, the best Greek restaurants in the USA are truly worthy of a celebratory “Opa!”