Seemor
TAVERNA at The Mar Vista
12249 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066
· Greek restaurant, Barbecue area, Brunch restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (597 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Greek spot with flaming saganaki, strong bar program, and authentic crowd-pleasers; service is upbeat though occasionally rushed, and prices are fair for the quality.
Restaurant Summary
The room hums with lively Greek energy—think clinking glasses, bursts of "Opa" as the saganaki flames, and an upbeat bar where bartenders like George keep spirits high. Guests describe servers as warm and welcoming, though peak hours can bring a little table-turn pressure. One diner summed it up: "The place was buzzing and the staff still kept it friendly." The cooking leans elevated traditional Greek rather than flashy fusion: tender octopus with lemon, rustic salads, lamb chops off the grill, and richly layered moussaka. Plates favor bright olive oil, herbs, and charcoal-kissed flavors, with theatrical touches like flaming cheese for fun. It suits diners who love authentic mezze and grilled meats, a good cocktail, and a bustling neighborhood vibe. Families do well here. There is a real kids menu (butter or tomato bucatini, chicken fingers), plus easy wins like fries, potatoes, and grilled chicken. Adventurous kids can nibble saganaki or lamb; conservative eaters will still find simple options at fair prices.
At a Glance
- Lively atmosphere with tableside flaming saganaki and strong bar program
- Consistently praised octopus, salads, and grilled lamb when cooked to temp
- Peak-time rushing and fast coursing reported by some diners
- Occasional reheated or uneven-temperature moussaka noted
- Good value for West LA Greek given quality and portions
What Sets It Apart
- tableside_flaming_saganaki
- sunday_bbq_energy
- strong_bar_service
What People Love
- The spectacle and flavor of flaming saganaki
- Tender, well-seasoned octopus
- Warm, personable staff and bartender hospitality
- Portokalopita dessert that finishes the meal on a high note
- Authentic-feeling Greek experience with music and energy
Points of Concern
- Some guests felt rushed by hosts or rapid coursing during peak hours
- Isolated over-char or uneven temp on lamb and moussaka
- Parking can be limited on weekends
- Review patterns show overall authenticity with minimal risk; enthusiasm language occasionally feels promotional but lacks orchestration signs
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$46-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Horiatiki with Lavráki for a lighter meal
- Share Saganaki, Keftedes, and Melitzana before splitting Paidakia
- Vegan diners: Vegan Moussaka plus Portokalopita (vegan ice cream)
Perfect For
- Celebratory dinners with friends
- Date night at the bar with cocktails
- Sunday brunch or BBQ vibe
- Group gatherings where mezze sharing shines
Location Insights
Area: Casual Westside corridor with neighborhood dining and nightlife; draws locals and destination brunch crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic along Venice Blvd; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near shops, bars, and residences; weekend brunch buzz and occasional live Greek music noted by reviewers.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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