In the heart of Lincoln Square, this Greek restaurant takes you back to the old country with its stone walkway, street lanterns and faux stucco walls. While the decor is quite simple and a bit outdated, Barba Yianni's offers traditional Greek fare. The menu highlights a selection of charcoal broiled meats, seafood, kabobs, pastas and other vegetarian dishes. Average dinner will cost you between $9 and $16.

This simple, community joint gathers regulars in the snug, Mediterranean bar. In between occasional shouts of "Opa," you can pick up the thick Greek accents of staff and patrons alike.

While our server continued to push the wine every 10 minutes, she was congenial and prompt in serving the Mediterranean fare. The fried saganaki, flaming cheese, was less salty than usual. The healthy portion of lightly fried calamari hit the spot and came with a side of boiled potatoes, veggies and rice and soup. On a cold winter day, I recommend a cup of avgolemono (egg lemon soup). It comes loaded with rice and had a nice citrus zing, just like yaya, grandma, used to make.

Centerstage Reviewer: Mara Sands