Tucked away in the leafy elegance of Holland Park, Vori Greek Taverna feels like stepping into a slice of the Aegean coast, where the food is as fresh as the sea breeze and the atmosphere hums with the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a little portal to Greece, far removed from the often-grey London skies.
The menu at Vori is a masterclass in the art of simplicity. The dishes, inspired by the island of Andros, are bursting with the freshness that only comes from using top-notch ingredients. Greek cuisine is all about bringing out the natural flavours, and Vori does this with aplomb.
Take the Htapodi, for instance. Tender, marinated octopus served with caper leaves and a drizzle of olive oil so good it deserves its own spotlight. Then there is the Texel Lamb with a mint and caper dressing – succulent bites of joy that arrive with that quintessential Mediterranean smokiness.
Paired with a side of Krotekes – feta or pastourma, the choice is yours – or a village salad that crunches with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, you’re reminded why Greek cuisine has a reputation for being soul-satisfyingly simple.
But the real magic of Vori comes with the mezes. These small plates are a reason to gather, share, and linger at the table. Whether it’s the creamy tzatziki with just the right garlic kick or the utterly delicious Magula – homemade pasta from the island of Folegandros served with slow-cooked red wine ox cheek ragù, you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more bite. The Lukumades – those fluffy, honey-soaked doughnuts – might just end your evening on the sweetest possible note.
Complementing the food is a carefully curated wine list that offers a delightful journey through Greece’s lesser-known but utterly drinkable vineyards. Whether you’re a fan of crisp whites or prefer a bold red, there’s something for every palate, and the friendly staff (a special mention to Kim) are always on hand to recommend the perfect pairing.
Vori’s interiors strike the perfect balance between modern sophistication and rustic charm. It’s as if someone transported a cosy Greek village tavern into one of London’s swankiest postcodes and added a dash of contemporary flair. The whitewashed walls, accented by warm wooden beams, are an homage to the traditional Cycladic aesthetic, while the pendant lighting casts a warm glow over intimate tables, giving the room an inviting, golden hue.
There’s a certain unpolished beauty in the ceramic plates and the hand-painted tiles lining the bar that makes you feel like you’re dining in a place that’s been passed down through generations—except with a chic, cosmopolitan twist. Whether you’re sitting at a table by the open windows, enjoying the gentle hum of London outside, or you’ve tucked yourself into a more secluded corner, the ambiance is effortlessly comfortable. It’s as perfect for a casual lunch with friends as it is for a romantic dinner date.
Vori isn’t a place that tries too hard to impress; it doesn’t need to. The ambiance radiates a casual ease, where families chat animatedly over shared platters, couples linger over glasses of ouzo, and the staff treats you like you’re one of their own. There’s a distinctly laid-back vibe that makes you want to slow down and savour each bite, each moment.
While the space itself is refined, the experience is never stiff. You might find yourself getting caught up in the buzz of conversation, the clinking of wine glasses, and the sound of laughter that seems to bounce from table to table. The staff are attentive but never intrusive, offering just the right nudge toward a dish you didn’t know you needed in your life—until now.
In an area where fine dining can sometimes feel a bit too polished, Vori stands out as a place that’s genuinely about good food, good company, and a touch of Greek magic. So, whether you’re in the mood for a long, leisurely meal or just popping by for a meze and a glass of wine, Vori Greek Taverna offers a delicious escape, where every meal feels like a little holiday by the sea.
Vori Greek Taverna manages to do what so few restaurants in London can—transport you. With its stellar Greek cuisine, rustic yet stylish interiors, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that feels like home after just one visit. You may come for the food, but you’ll stay for the vibes (and maybe another round of Lukumades).
120 Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA
