On the bustling streets of 6th avenue, in the heart of midtown NYC, Avra Estiatorio unveils the newest gem in their collection: Avra Rockefeller Center. Taking over the space next to the MLB storefront, Avra Group’s newest location is grand and imposing, yet an impressively inviting respite from the business right outside. Facing Radio City Music Hall, office workers and tourists are bound to be curious about this block-spanning new restaurant with an outdoor seating terrace.
We stopped by for the grand opening of Avra Estiatorio Rockefeller Center to learn more about the brand’s hopes for their stellar new location, and sample some of the Greek cuisine that the brand is famous for.
Walking into the stately entrance on 6th ave, we were greeted by Avra’s light-filled interior, reminiscent of Greek style architecture and design. As some of the first few guests to arrive before the large crowd shuffled in, we had the chance to really take in the artistry and craft of the new location’s breathtaking design – complete with a waterfall under the stairs and a row of seats that look like you’re dining al fresco in a small town on the Greek islands. The two signature cocktails being served that night were the Mykonos Breeze, a passion fruit vodka based cooler, and the Santorini Martini, a gin-based cucumber martini. We loved both, and recommend the Mykonos to those who want something fun, light, and fruity, and recommend the Santorini to those craving something still light, refreshing, and less sweet.
After enjoying our drinks at the patio and taking in the June evening’s warmth, we decided to check out the raw seafood bar setup on the ground and lower level floors. Suit-clad guests lined up to be served from the vast array of west coast oysters, east coast oysters, lobster, and shrimp, with cocktail sauce, horseradish, and lemon wedges for dressing. The abundance of the seafood on display, together with fresh fruits and veggies, evoked a seaside scene. This spoke to the freshness of the cuisine offered here and fed perfectly into the ambiance that Avra Rockefeller Center is trying to create. Aside from the raw bar, appetizers were passed around throughout the night – everything from salmon and tuna crudo to meatballs and our favorite, the spanakopita.
From the delicious cocktails to mouthwatering appetizers, guests dined wonderfully as they were entranced by the new Avra location’s beauty, possibly imagining carefree summer dinners here throughout the season, like we were. Even Jennifer Lopez was spotted at Avra’s grand opening! Make your reservation here and check out their website today!
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 09: Jennifer Lopez arrives at the after party for Tribeca Festival Opening Night & World Premiere of Netflix’s “Halftime” on June 08, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)