Psaraki: Enchanting Greek Fare at the East River in Williamsburg

Psaraki is a welcome new arrival on Williamsburg’s riverfront, nestled within walking distance of The Refinery at Domino on the East River, and offering breathtaking sunset views of the majestic Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan skyline. With a natural, open-air, modern design that incorporates the blue and white colors of Greece’s shimmering island tavernas, Psaraki’s panoramic setting is the ideal place to adopt a more philosophical Greek approach to life and food: slow down and enjoy.

“Psaraki” means “little fish” in Greek. You will have much to savor at Psaraki, so bring your appetite and carve out ample time to truly appreciate its exquisitely prepared dishes. Psaraki is the creation of longtime hospitality veteran Chef James Paloumbis, and his menu reflects traditional Greek fare from sea, land, and garden: Saganaki, feta in various incarnations, olives, oysters, Spanakopita, garden vegetables, shrimp, octopus, summer fruit, Stuffed Meatballs, scallops, lobster, tzatziki, tuna tartare, chicken, lamb chops, pasta, fish kebobs, herbs, baklava, authentic yogurt, and so much more to transport your taste buds to Athens.

The Food + Drink / Wines from Santorini
You may want to start with a glass of light, complex Greek white that captures local Greek flavor, such as GWC Assyrttiko, Santorini, for an authentic experience, or opt for one the restaurant’s superb artisanal cocktails, beer, and an array of coffee and non-alcoholic spirits.

Start with a summery, palate-cleansing Watermelon and Feta Appetizer, then try other hardier, shareable appetizers such as Tuna Tartare or gluten-free Veggie Chips (zucchini + eggplant crisps with tzatziki spread).

The SAGANAKI, which is Kasseri cheese flambéed table-side with fresh lemon is always fun and flavorful, while the four GREEK SPREADS with pita enable you to sample an array of different flavors (it’s impossible to choose a favorite):
Tzatziki – Greek yogurt, garlic cucumber, EVOO / gluten free
Tarama – Greek caviar mousse / dairy free
Spicy Feta – Greek yogurt, red chili pepper / gluten free
Humus Araka – Green beans, tahini, mint / vegetarian

The FISHERMAN’S TABLE EXPERIENCE ($74 per person) is a fantastic deal for a dinner out, as it’s a curated selection of the favorite dishes in the Greek Isles, and includes:

Greek Spreads with Pita
Veggie chips: zucchini + eggplant with tzatziki
Horiatiki Salad – truly an authentic Greek salad
Greek fries – golden-fried to perfection
Saganaki – (described above)
Horta – boiled Greek wild leafy greens
Spanakopita – savory spinach pie
Fish: Fresh calamari, octopus, branzino
Dessert: Greek yogurt with sour cherry
+$26 per person for additional lobster pasta

Meat eaters can revel in the tasty Lamb Chops, Filet Mignon, and Organic local Chicken. There are also Veggie Burgers and pasta options, as well as Garden Salads, Whole Fish, Grilled Vegetables, Lemon Roasted Potatoes, and Vegetable Moussaka (Béchamel, eggplant, zucchini, potato, cheese, tomato purée). This is a sampling of the restaurant’s fare – you must go and try it for yourself. You won’t regret it.

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The Setting + Atmosphere
Psaraki’s interior was handcrafted by Chef Paloumbis with much thought, and is meant to match the minimalistic design of Cycladic Greek architecture. It features a long, white marble bar and large marble tables, plus open port windows to highlight the distinctive views. The outside terrace fits 78 guests for parties, or for parties-of-two.

Psaraki’s Greek food on the East River in Williamsburg is well worth a trek from anywhere in New York City and beyond, whether for a special occasion or to make any ordinary occasion special.

Peruse the menu HERE.