Estiatorio Plaka
About
Estiatorio Plaka
Welcome to Estiatorio Plaka, a family-owned Greek restaurant nestled in the heart of Baltimore's Greektown. At Estiatorio Plaka, we’re passionate about bringing the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Greece to our community. Our name, "Plaka," is inspired by the charming Plaka district in Athens, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy traditional Greek dishes, unwind, and create memories.
Our menu features a wide range of time-honored Greek recipes made from the freshest ingredients, many sourced locally to bring you authentic flavors. From our signature dishes like tender lamb, fresh seafood, and savory moussaka, to our house-made pastries like baklava and loukoumades, we aim to give you a true taste of Greece, served with love and care. Whether you're here for a quick lunch or a celebratory dinner, Estiatorio Plaka offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for all.
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At Estiatorio Plaka, we bring the spirit of Greece to the heart of Greektown, Baltimore—one plate at a time. What began as a passion project by founder John Zoulis has grown into a beloved neighborhood destination for authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. For decades, John has served the Greektown community with heart, hospitality, and a commitment to preserving the flavors and traditions of his heritage.
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Our kitchen offers a true taste of the Aegean with fresh seafood, (Branzino,dorade,Rockfish), hand-cut souvlaki, char-grilled lamb chops,Lamb on spit and our famous gyros and skepasti sandwiches. Everything is made from scratch using high-quality ingredients—whether it’s our creamy tzatziki, flaky spanakopita, or sweet baklava drizzled with honey. We also serve traditional dishes like moussaka, pastitsio, and a rotating selection of daily specials, just like you’d find in a village taverna in Greece.
Located just minutes from Downtown Baltimore and the Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus, Estiatorio Plaka is proud to be a part of the cultural and culinary heart of Greektown . We're just off 4718 Eastern Avenue and Oldham st, making us a convenient and inviting stop for lunch, dinner, or takeout.Just minutes from Interstate 95 (I-95) and Interstate 895 (I-895), reaching us is straightforward for both local residents and visitors. From I-95, take Exit 57 (Boston Street/O'Donnell Street) and follow O'Donnell Street westward to Eastern Avenue. From I-895, use Exit 10 (O'Donnell Street) and head west to Eastern Avenue.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, grabbing a bite with friends, or visiting for the first time, we welcome you like family. Come enjoy the food, culture, and warmth that have made Estiatorio Plaka a true Greek gem in Baltimore.
Our Story & Founder
John Zoulis
Estiatorio Plaka was founded by John Zoulis, a Greek immigrant who brought his love for authentic Greek food and culture to Baltimore. With a passion for cooking passed down through generations, John decided to share his family's traditions with the local community. He has always believed that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way to connect, share stories, and bring people together.
After moving to the United States, John’s dedication to quality and authenticity led him to open Estiatorio Plaka, where he could serve the dishes he grew up with in the warmth and comfort of a welcoming environment. Over the years, his commitment to providing exceptional food and outstanding service has made Estiatorio Plaka a beloved spot for Greek cuisine in Baltimore.
In addition to his work in the restaurant, John is deeply committed to his community. He’s been actively involved in supporting local events, charities, and businesses, always striving to give back to the place that welcomed him. His dedication and hard work have made Estiatorio Plaka more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where guests can experience the warmth and hospitality of Greek culture.
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Estiatorio Plaka is more than a restaurant—it’s a heartfelt tribute to tradition, community, and culinary heritage. Owner John Zoulis carries on a proud legacy: his father was the original founder of the iconic Tom’s Restaurant in New York City, famously featured in the hit show Seinfeld. Now rooted in Baltimore, John continues that legacy as part-owner of GM Restaurant and as a passionate advocate for Greektown. Since 1998, he has been actively renovating properties in the neighborhood, working to preserve its rich history while helping it grow and thrive. Estiatorio Plaka brings together that same spirit of authenticity and community, serving modern Greek-Mediterranean cuisine with soul.
Join Us at Estiatorio Plaka
Whether you're a long-time fan or visiting us for the first time, we invite you to come and experience the flavors, warmth, and joy of Greek cuisine. From our family to yours, we look forward to sharing our food and stories with you.