Sofi Greek Restaurant

The Scene
Watch for falling leaves in the sunny patio, which is cocooned from the street in trellises, geraniums and hanging bougainvillea. The more formal, white-walled dining room is equally peaceful, as Sofi rarely fills up, despite its devoted clientele of neighborhood regulars. Just like at a real Greek taverna, service is unimposing and relaxed.

The Food
There aren't any bizarre fusion-fueled concoctions on the menu, just satisfying renditions of traditional Greek favorites, like a big bowl of tangy, pale-yellow avgolemono soup brimming with orzo and tender chicken. Scoop up taramasalata (creamy caviar dip) or tzatziki (garlicky cucumber-yogurt dip) on soft pieces of thick, warm pita. Classics like pastitsio, moussaka and souvlaki are fine, but try the lemon chicken, served with thick-sliced rounds of roasted potatoes that are as addictive as buttered popcorn. Finish with super-fresh rice pudding or fragrant baklava, with walnuts and almonds that aren't drowned in the typical excess honey.