Santorini Taverna

Santorini Taverna is the latest take on Greek dining from the Nicklow family, whose Minnesota restaurant roots date back to the ’60s when gyro was a foreign term and pita bread was categorized by my father as “hippie food.” A few things have changed since then, and the Nicklows have, too. Road construction forced a move from the decade-old St. Louis Park spot to a new location just off I-494 and U.S. 212 in Eden Prairie. Santorini ups the ante with a large and inviting restaurant that features a stone fireplace and ample patio seating. Of particular note is chef Craig Johnson’s chic take on classic Greek-American foods such as meaty gyros with oregano and lemon fries, subtly spiced eggplant moussaka, grilled lamb chops, and Grecian-style pizza. Here’s the best part—prices are as friendly as the service, and Santorini features a large bar area with live music and a happy hour menu with a dozen items for less than $5 each. After 40 years, it turns out that value runs in the family, too.
13000 Technology Dr., Eden Prairie, 952-546-6722