Uptown Dallas now has a splash of Mediterranean magic. Avra Estiatorio, the New York-based upscale Greek restaurant known for its fresh seafood and modern takes on classic Greek dishes, has opened its first Texas outpost at The Crescent. From the moment you step inside, the restaurant feels less like a dining room and more like an escape: one highlight, The Conservatory, is a glass-enclosed café wrapped in lush greenery, creating a bright, airy indoor-outdoor atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a little getaway.
The experience starts even before you sit. A server will escort you to the seafood display, a glistening array of fresh fish, prawns, and lobsters — yes, the lobsters are still moving — giving you a glimpse of just how fresh the ingredients are before they make it to your table.
For starters, the Greek salad is a must. Vibrant tomatoes, crisp peppers, sweet onions, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy Arahova feta dressing make it a refreshing opener for the table. Don’t miss the Avra chips — thin, crispy zucchini and eggplant chips served with velvety tzatziki, perfect for sharing and impossible to eat just one of.
From the sashimi and ceviche section, the yellowtail jalapeño stands out: a harmonious mix of ponzu, soy, lime zest, jalapeño, pink peppercorn, and delicate Japanese eggplant shavings that feels bright, punchy, and indulgent all at once.
When it comes to mains, the Branzino is a showstopper. Served tableside with a rich, lemony ladolemono sauce, each bite is flaky, buttery, and perfectly seasoned — the kind of dish that makes you pause and savor. And for dessert, the classic baklava steals the show: layers of pistachio and honey syrup that are sweet, nutty, and utterly irresistible.
Experience Avra Estiatorio’s the combination of fresh ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and the lush, serene vibe of The Conservatory makes it a destination for both casual lunch and elegant dinner alike. In Uptown Dallas, it’s a little slice of Greece you won’t want to miss.
