No one does it better than the Greeks when it comes to welcoming guests. Celebrity Chef Maria Loi’s warmth and huge smile are the first things to draw you in to Midtown West newcomer Loi Estiatorio. Last year, Chef Loi took over the Michelin-starred Austrian restaurant, Seäsonal, and transformed it into her very own authentic Greek experience which debuted on Valentine’s Day. The restaurant came with a top of the line stove which Seäsonal owners Wolfgang Ban and Eduard Frauneder brought from Europe, the end result: incredible baked food.

Chef Loi is a Greek food ambassador, author, and healthy lifestyle expert. An author of more than 36 cookbooks, and over 150 magazines. She owns gourmet restaurants, and has a line of Maria Loi dinnerware and kitchen appliances. Loi’s latest book, “The Greek Diet”, co-written with health journalist Sarah Toland, talks about the Greek Mediterranean lifestyle and combining original ingredients to bring out the taste and satisfy the soul. Who wouldn't want to be on a diet 'where wine, yogurt, olive oil, and nuts have their own food groups'? As she says in her own words “In Greece, you trust the Chef to give you the best”.

Loi Estiatorio is closely located to the MOMA, Central park, and is in the middle of a busy business district. The beautiful intimate space is laden with dark wooden floors, tables, and a bar with an off white granite counter top and accents of blue, giving you the true Mediterranean feel.

Once seated you’re greeted by a diverse menu of authentic Greek appetizers and intricate seafood, beef, and vegetables entrees. Just like olive oil and nuts, the Greeks have a big appreciation for wine, so it comes as no surprise that the wine list is extensive. If opting for a cocktail you’ll be delighted by the Greek spins on classics, like Greek Fashioned or the Loitini complete with feta-stuffed kalamata olives.

A trip to Midtown feels like a trip to the Mediterranean when you're in Chef Loi’s hands.

By Samana Naqvi