From traditional tavernas serving meaty layers of moussaka to grab-and-go joints plating up mouthwatering gyros, Tarpon Springs is the go-to spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast for traditional Greek cuisine. Known for being a mecca of Greek culture and heritage for over 100 years, this sunny Florida town is packed with Greek restaurants, particularly at the Sponge Docks.
With Epiphany approaching in early January, check out these must-visit dining spots the next time you’re in Tarpon Springs.
Mykonos
Owned by the Salivaras family, Mykonos celebrates Greece with its bright white interiors, vibrant blue accents and paintings of scenic Greek landscapes. Known for being the only restaurant on the Sponge Docks that serves Lamb Fricasse (lamb shank topped with endive and lemon sauce), this popular spot’s menu is packed with traditional dishes and fresh-caught seafood. Chow down on octopus salad, Spanakopita and roasted pork. Vegetarian? No problem. You’ll find dishes like vegetarian moussaka and omelets.
Hellas Restaurant and Bakery
For over 50 years, the award-winning Hellas Restaurant and Bakery has been a Sponge Docks staple with its bright blue awning and eclectic Mediterranean vibe. Try the Greece-imported Saganaki, a cheese dish set on fire tableside. Don’t skip an order of the Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves with lemon sauce). And for a sweet treat, you can’t go wrong with Hella’s claim to fame, the Baklava Cheesecake.
Mr. Souvlaki
This lowkey, family-run joint has served the historic Sponge Docks area for over thirty years, blending traditional and contemporary Greek flavors. Mr. Souvlaki is best known as the home of the famous Greek Chow Mein, a hearty dish of rice pilaf, feta cheese, sautéed peppers, onions, and your choice of protein. End your meal with the Loukoumades – pillowy fried dough with cinnamon and honey.
Mama’s Greek Cuisine
Mama’s Greek Cuisine is a traditional Greek eatery with epic live entertainment that transports you straight to Greece – from live music to belly dancing. Satisfy your cravings at this cozy dockside restaurant with classics like the Pastitsio (Greek lasagna) or Keftedes (homemade meatballs). If it’s seafood you’re after, chow down on the Seafood Combo platter with octopus, calamari, and smelts.
Dimitri’s on the Water
Owned by the same family that runs Mykonos, Dimitri’s on the Water is a fine-dining restaurant with mesmerizing Anclote River views and a boat dock for ultimate convenience. The waterfront hotspot serves steaks cut to order, locally caught seafood, and an expansive collection of Greek wines. Love to fish? They’ll cook whatever you catch! Alternatively, try the gyro stuffed with lamb or the chargrilled octopus for a sensational bite.
Costas Restaurant
It’s all about the flavors of the Greek islands at Costas Restaurant, a casual bistro serving traditional dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and stuffed grape leaves. Relax in the spacious dining room (it’s great for parties) and dine on fresh seafood like grouper and tarpon. The fried vegetables served with skordalia (garlic potato spread) are a must. And if you’re craving something sweet, order the pita churros with raspberry dipping sauce.
The Limani
The Limani is a tiny dockside joint wedged between a Greek-inspired souvenir shop and the waterfront. Best known for its crave-worthy gyros and chicken kabobs, The Limani may look humble on the outside, but it makes up for it with its tantalizing flavors, reasonable prices, and generous portion sizes. Stop by for unforgettable bites like pork souvlaki and feta fries while enjoying the fresh air at one of the waterfront tables – if you can snag one.
Wraps & Kabobs
Located off Highway 19, Wraps & Kabobs is a fast-casual restaurant specializing in Mediterranean flavors with a health-focused twist. They serve popular Greek dishes like shawarma, falafel, and kofta and American-style wraps like the chicken Philly or shrimp caesar. Grab your meal to-go or dine at one of the tables in this quaint eatery. Craving dessert? Be sure to try the flaky and buttery Baklava.
