Athena Greek Restaurant 212 South Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60661

"Food: My sister had highly recommended the Athenian stuffed chicken with a potato added - a must. The bed of rice and slow cooked potato served with the chicken was well marinated. The chicken is hollowed out for the stuffed feta and spinach filling. The chicken itself wasn't as flavorful on its own but the filling helps carry the savory and creaminess in terms of flavor. Not oily or salty. Finished about half and took the rest for leftovers. As a shared appetizer, the table split the flaming saganaki AKA the flamin' cheese. The cheese is incredibly savory - definitely squeeze the lemon on it beforehand for an extra flavor booster. Added points for the fire demonstration before serving. Ordered tea beforehand and a mocha coffee afterwards. My gal pal is vegetarian and ordered the Spanokopita, it did not disappoint. Had a flaky, croissant exterior but inside was hearty and flavorful. Everything tasted freshly made. Complimentary baklava was served at the end for my sister's birthday - warm, crunchy and sweet. Service: Our waiter was phenomenal. Extremely attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. He really elevated the experience. Great character and had great recommendations. Atmosphere: Came here on a cold evening in January to celebrate my sister's birthday. This place is so stunning with its Roman columns and statues carved into the wall. A true Greek atmosphere with the plants and ample lighting allowed from the glass roof and ample windows. I plan on returning in the Spring or Summer during light hours to truly appreciate the natural lighting and decor."

"Very beautiful restaurant and everyone was very kind to my friend and I. We came in for a late lunch to celebrate her birthday since we had not been able to celebrate it together when it happened earlier in the year. I noted in the reservation that we were celebrating a birthday. I am not sure if they do the whole birthday cake/ sing a song with a candle schtick but it didn’t happen so I’m assuming they don’t. Other than that, our food was delivered to us timely and tasted good. We ordered the meatballs as an appetizer and they were good paired with the bread. My only issue might be that there was a little too much acidity in the meatball. For my entrée, I got the Chicken Kebob and while my rice was a little cold, and so was the potato, the meat was hot, tender and juicy. All in all aside from the temperature of the sides, my meal was solid."

"Came here for Restaurant week, but ended up ordering off the main menu. Service was great from the minute we walked in. The ambiance was spot on, we sat in the covered out door patio. Athena’s signature Baklava Old Fashion was well crafted and strong. Tirokafteri and Shrimp Athena for the appetizer was a good recommendation made by our server. The Lamb Loin Chops and Combination plate were super tasty. I would recommend the combination plate if you haven’t had Greek food before. I definitely will come back!"

"A must for restaurant week. Service was great and food was excellent. Great value too. Tip: if you’re between the chicken kebob or the Athena chicken do the kebob. Same taste, doesn’t take as long. Just a smaller portion. Also the orange cake (portokalopita) is AMAZING. 10/10 recommend."

"Great location. Free valet parking. Beautiful interior. Great outdoor/indoor patio. The food was so fresh and flavorful. Authentic Greek dining experience. Ordered the Saganaki, but they couldn’t light it on fire due to the open patio. The service was below average. I was dinning for a birthday celebration and no desserts were even offered. The hostess/server staff seemed eager to leave for the night. Otherwise I would dine again."