Estia

Estia Restaurant Review:

Enjoy the flavors of Greece at this locally owned, upmarket restaurant in the heart of the theater district. Estia features Jerusalem stone and hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings with white sailcloth between the beams, booths, and dark wood tables. There's a spotless open kitchen and even a live olive tree near the market display of fresh fish and vegetables. The long list of mezzes includes sardines and octopus, both grilled. Order fresh fish, flown in from the Mediterranean daily, prepared whole and priced by the pound. Specialties include the lavraki, a flaky white European sea bass, and barbouni, a Greek version of red mullet, which are deboned tableside. The well-priced wine list is primarily Greek. Service is competent and friendly. A three-course $35 prix-fixe pre-theater menu is offered from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., a convenient option as Estia is steps away from the Academy of Music, Merriam Theater and The Kimmel Center. Another good value is the two-course prix-fixe lunch.