Maria's Taverna - Vancouver

I was recommended to this Greek Taverna (GT by an acquaintance from years past. There used to be an excellent GT called Panos. It was a smash hit on their Lamb Shoulder, Calamari and Moussaka. These 3 were my 'goto ' dishes. The Service: very good friendly with a smile. My acquaintance was quite familiar with Panos too, and so I was told 'they make these dishes ' just like Panos. Had the urge, to at least try it out, and get my fix. Not comparable, sorry my friend. however.... The lamb shoulder dish was good. The calamari appetizer was very good, not over deep fried and very tender inside. The moussaka? in a bowl/cup? Nope Doesn 't make the cut. It 's not even to be considered as traditional moussaka. The lemon greek potatoes?, overcooked and too wet just too small even with them cut in half. Greek potatoes? using small potatoes?? Nope doesnt make the cut. I will stick to my present 'goto ' spot for lamb, moussaka n potatoes. ;

One of my favourite restaurants in Vancouver! I've been so many times. I hype this place up to so many people and no one's ever been disappointed. The restaurant is decorated in a coastal style with Greek decor around. The service can be a little slow at times and depending on the day especially around dinnertime, it can get quite busy so I'd recommend calling in to reserve in those instances. Even when it's busy, it's not loud. The free bread is to die for. Perfectly toasted and just so soft. I do feel a little bad coming in with my friends every time because we abuse this complimentary policy so much and on average get around 4 bread baskets each time. The most we've ever done was 6 but you will know what we're talking about when you get it you just can't get enough. You can ask for olive oil and balsamic vinegar but they'd have to make it for you in the back. I always get the lamb souvlaki and it's consistently great. Everything is just made perfectly and there is not a single thing to complain about.

Maria's offers delicious Greek cuisine that hits the mark in terms of flavor. They have a variety of unique dishes, like grilled calamari and grilled chicken livers, which are worth trying if they appeal to you. The deep-fried calamari is especially tasty and stands out as one of the best in town. The service is friendly and the atmosphere has a classic small Greek restaurant feel. I highly recommend giving Maria's a try.

Small Greek restaurant on West 4th across the street from Safeway. Had the Kleftiko, lamb shoulder, super tender and flafourful. A substantial portion of lamb came with side Greek salad, sautéed rice, and Greek style potatoes, definitely a plateful of food. Had the calamari with tatziki as an appetizer, crispy and tender. The Greek salad was the only disappointment, feta cheese was just a sprinkling, I was expecting something more traditional. Prices are reasonable and service is friendly and efficient. Anyway, well worth a visit if you're in the mood for Greek food, they also serve pizza if you're not feeling the lamb.

I didn't even read one review when I ordered for my first time this evening with the Mrs on her way home from a 16 hour day another Vancouver gloomy gloomers cold ugly Thursday ; The Lamb was gorgeous and had wonderful flavours, beautiful sides and packed clean and tight. The pizza was next level with a thicker yet almost pretzel style crust that is unique and creates a strong crust to hold a ton of great toppings. Trust me I get it. This an anchovy home and I hate cheap ones they ruin the pizza?! Not here we really enjoyed this. Well done you Guys! Could have used a napkin or two!