Generous, classic Greek meze and grills in a lively, modern space with long wait times and occasional service inconsistencies—great food, but plan for noise and queues.
Mezes delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by fresh calamari, octopus, and generous souvlaki plates, paired with exceptional setting appeal in a modern, lively Danforth space. However, inconsistent execution—occasional dry meats and variable service attentiveness—prevents grade A territory, while no-reservation waits and peak-time noise limit its standing as a destination restaurant despite loyal repeat patronage.
The scene at Mezes is warm and bustling: a multi‑level room that glows with modern Mediterranean charm, a lively patio, and hosts shepherding long queues of hungry diners. Service often feels warm and helpful, though a few guests hit snags, and the room can roar at peak times. As one diner put it, "Great flavors and huge plates, but come early unless you like standing in line." The cooking sticks to classic Greek comfort rather than fancy fusion: crisp-tender calamari, grilled octopus when the kitchen is on song, generous souvlaki plates, and crowd-pleasing dips with warm pita. Portions are hearty and prices land a touch above casual, but most guests feel the trade-off delivers value—especially for sharing meze across the table. Families will do well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like grilled chicken, fries, rice, pita, and mild dips. There is no kids menu noted, but the meze format makes sharing easy. Noise can be high indoors; request patio or earlier seating if bringing younger children.
Area vibe: Bustling Greektown strip of eateries and cafes; popular with locals, families, and weekend crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit main street with steady foot traffic into late evening.
What's nearby: Dense restaurant row near Danforth subway corridor; shops, bars, and patios create an evening hub.
Go big on shared plates: dips, Kalamari, grilled octopus and skewers anchor a classic Mezes meal.
It is casual but very loud at peak times, and you should expect to wait without a reservation.
Think modern Mediterranean charm, a glowing multi-level dining room and a lively, noisy energy after dark.