Papa Cristo's Greek Grill and Market Reviews

This may not be the prettiest place, or most wonderful presentation of Greek food to be had..but the store, the food, the bare tables & floor , the bouzouzi player. All conspired with a tiny bit of help from the retsina to 'take me back' to the islands. The owner is so friendly - and the store is a wonderland of Greek foodstuffs to shop. The experience is fine, funky and friendly - just as it is in Greece. Go with your finest Zorba mindset. Opa!

This was my second trip to Papa Christo’s - it is not really a taverna as much as a takeaway with a nicer hall to eat in beside the Greek market. The food is fun and most economical if you stick to the sandwiches. The Merides this trip were not fresh. The falafel tasted as if it was from a mix. But the Greek salad, tztziki, gyros plates etc were wonderful. I remembered it all as better and am not sure if it has changed or my memory was amazed during the first visit. Great for families and fun if you want to have takeaway. Parking out the back helps so much.

Traditional Greek cuisine in a historic ambience that looks like the place your grandfather took you when you were young. Order at the counter, sit at the large dining hall and they bring you your order. Reasonable prices and all the traditional greek offerings are here.

Today marks my first time ever coming here after living in LA for 21 years. Our parking was free! We walked through what seemed to be a back door, and it was! But it was also the door too! Lol! The first smell I smelled was cheese and chicken! Followed by looks of special sweets and a small market on the inside. There was a huge line leading to the left with a variety of goodies on the menu. I tried the Gyro Pizza and I tried a lamb piece from one of my friends and it was juicy and good! The food is well cooked and healthy and the diner is wide. It seemed a bit pricey with the food prices but the fact that parking was free really saves you a hassle of time and allows you to spend a longer time with your friends without the hectic leaving afterwards. I will definitely come back ! :D P.S. All that lamb chop needs is some pepper and salt and BAM BAM!!! :D

This restaurant/deli is definitely a ‘must see’ if you are in the area. The deli itself has a wide variety of Greek foods, oils, olives, wines and beers. Our party of eight, including our four young granddaughters, ate at the Thursday night ‘Big Fat Greek Feast”. It was definitely a night to remember. Copious quantities of good food, free wine tasting, and the presence of the ever hospitable Papa Cristo himself contributed to a memorable evening. The evening was topped off with a performance by a Greek belly dancer, and we were free to take our leftovers (of which there were plenty) home. We highly recommend this place, especially the Thursday night feast!

Yummy gyros.

A bit out of the way if you are a WESTSIDER/Beverly Hills resident. BUT just for the excitement and fun of it, it is worth drive down Pico to this long established and much loved Greek spot. Go when the traffic is light and Pico is clear and I would say it is well wroth it. It's a market, a bakery, a self service cafe...it's an experience. The food is good, not great, but we only had a few things. Everyone there seemed to know which dish to order at the walk-up counter and all you have to do is patiently wait for your food to be brought over by a truly warm and friendly staff. Great atmosphere, and, Papa Cristo makes the rounds to insure everyone is well taken care of and enjoying the traditions of this truly classic L.A. Greek eatery. My girlfriend and I do plan to go back, when we are a bit more hungry and once we have taken the time to study the on-line menu. You need to know what is offered and be ready to order. Nothing negative to say about PAPA CRISTO's!!!

Without doubt one of the best, if not the best, restaurant. deli and take out for Greek cuisine. No pretense or wannabees among the customers here, and no tourists on parade. Just honest hardworking folk who know and appreciate value when they see it. Try the lamb gyro sandwich for $8.99. It's gotta be the best in L.A.

Love and food at Papa Christo's and now he is giving free Greek Cooking classes a few times a month. Visit his web site to find out more.

We come from europe and visit Greece in the summer for the last 25 years.So when we were in L.A. we wanted to try the best Greek restaurant in the city and we weren't disappointed. The chef was very welcoming and the food was typically Greek and fantastic. Highly recommend - try the "Big Fat Greek Dinner" on thursday nights

We have been eating here for years, and our last visit was great as always. This is a family-run place with authentic fresh Greek food. You stand on line to order your food and then they bring it to you in the dining area. This was our first time in a long time going on a weekend - and we were glad we did. They have specials they only serve on weekends - their pastichio was incredible - and a huge portion. Hubby had the octopus and loved it. Great people-watching - we were there on the Saturday before the Greek Easter and there were lots of folks eating and buying food items to take home. They have a decent deli counter. I especially enjoy their cheese and pastry selections. You can also get hot food to go. Highly recommend!

Most authentic Greek food in town. I'd take my yaya here for sure! Casual, family friendly, and the mandolin player is charming!

Seriously, what else do you need in a Greek Restaurant. We did the Thursday night banquet, price was exceptionally good as was the food. Wine tasting and a sampling of great food. You are seated in a group which isn't what we would normally do but in this case it was perfect. Great food and great chatting. The Belly Dancer was not only very good but played very well to all the guests. If you like Greek food don't hesitate to go, as well as a fantastic deli that has everything you can imagine to create your own Greek dishes. Stop reading and just Go.

Everytime I'm in LA, I MUST come to Papa Cristo's. Their Greek food is so authentic and DELICIOUS! I love it because I can eat and shop for my mediterranean cuisine ingredients at their little store. Everything is made from scatch. They make the BEST greek salad dressings, main dishes and drinks. Papa Cristo is always there, he's a cute little man with alot of heart I highly recommend this place. You will leave with a happy tummy and a Happy Heart

Went to Papa Cristo's with teen daughter in November. The food was amazing and the portions way above average; you certainly got what you paid for. It's smaller than most restaurants and sits on the corner of Pico & Normandy. The atmosphere is very authentic, from the chairs and tables to the walls and photos, you actually feel you're sitting in Greece. The staff was more than pleasant, also. It has a grocery store where you can purchase Mediterranean foods. When you enter, you go the right and order, then you sit. We ordered Gyro's plates which came with the BEST ROASTED POTATOES we've ever had. I would return just for those! The portion of the meat was more than I've received from any Greek restaurants we've been to around this area. Also on the plate was a nice-size Greek Salad and grilled pita. There were two couples sitting near us and they ordered items by large bowls that were places on the table. We each had to take home half our plates because of the large portions. We were hoping to have some dessert, which looked amazing, but we were stuffed! Parking is behind the building - free Valet for Papa Cristo's - be sure to show the receipt. And Papa Cristo himself could not had been any nicer. He took our order when we arrived and he stands all of maybe 4'11" :) We will most definitely return!

Wow, this place is amazing! I absolutely love this place! I brought my dog since their outside seating is dog friendly. Only bad thing was there were a few bees that kept buzzing around us and I was afraid of getting stung. Other than that, I love coming here! Their gyro sandwich is the best in town! Probably the best I ever had! All in all, I would def be back. Their desserts are also to die for! Their baby octopus is to die for! It just melts in your mouth..

All of the dishes here are delicious! My favorites are the dolmas, falafel, & spanakatopia- awesome! And the baklava is heavenly!!! The staff here are welcoming and the owner is very gracious & makes sure you are satisfied. There is valet parking as the parking is scarce. Overall, the best Greek food I've had in LA!!!

My sister and I stopped here for lunch last weekend and we had the best time. The food is good and reasonably priced. The atmosphere in the dining area was fun and lively. The only negative is the location....use caution.

Excellent Greek food in Los Angeles. The sizzling feta appetizer was amazing, as was the rack of lamb dinner plate. Of course we had to get a tray of baklava to go and it was a delectable treat later in the evening! We will definitely return!

while leaving in LA it was one of our favorite places to eat, very affordable, great service by a 3rd generation owner family and GREAT Greek food!!! from the olives, to the sovlaki to deserts, pure good food!!

This is a charming restaurant. A little on the pricy side, but really great food. We will definitely return.

Authentic Greek food. We usually get gyro sandwiches and the rack of lamb plate. Both are delicious. We don’t stray from these two because we enjoy both so much. On Thursday nights, they have a Big Fat Greek Family-Style Dinner where you can try different Greek food and enjoy the belly dancing. You need to make reservations for the Thursday night dinner, though. There is also a market where you can buy Greek and Mediterranean canned foods and wine, Greek cheeses, meat deli, and bakery.

Loved the food selections, the amounts they give you are very large, everything is good! Baklava is the best!

I went there with my cousin and her husband that is a very picky eater, well let me tell you that he was very happy with the food. I had the lamb and beef gyro OMG it was delicious,my husband the slouvaki very good, my cousin had the shrimp with garlic ( lots and lots of shrimp) delicious and we shared the sizzling feta and tomatoes, my nephew had the sausage pizza (he is 12) and you can also buy your bottle of wine and drink it there. And for dessert we had some baklavas yum, there is also live music. I do recomend this place if you are in the neighbourhood or if you like greek food Its delicious, good quality and very inexpensive.

I'd enjoyed their food for several years via their catering events at USC, so I decided to try them for a small party at our home. We ordered their combination dinner and were not disappointed. Every dish was expertly prepared -- lamb, chicken, and veggie kabobs, spanikopitas, stuffed grape leaves, Greek salad, etc. Delivery was on time by a very friendly and accommodating fellow. We will surely use them again. They are a gem.

This is one of those hidden gems in L.A. Located in the hood where on of the world's largest gangs was formed, it's survived in that neighborhood because of the DELICIOUS, five times delicious, food! The owners run the place and really make you feel like one of the family. They also sell Mediterranean specialty items. Just don't break the plates, trust me!

Their lamb is awesome and they make these potatoes that take like two days and I have food dreams about them. The wait staff is friendly and it is just a lot of fun. I love going to a restaurant where you can tell that everyone around you enjoys it and has a good time. If you love Greek food, it is a must.

If you want to eat the best authentic Greek food in Southern California, this is the place to go. Prices are low, quantities are huge, and the atmosphere is real. There is also a great selection of Greek meats, cheeses, frozen dinners, oil, wine, and other deli items. You order at the counter, and the food is brought to your table. Validated parking is in the rear of the restaurant. Stay away from here for lunch on Sundays, when the Greek cathedral across the street lets out.

Sunday brunch at Papa Cristo small greek salad, 3 lamb gyros and 2 lamb souvlaki what a feast...coupled with live music. We all loved the the freshly cooked lamb and gyros filled with tomatoes cucumbers and the garlic yogurt sauce. The gyros are enormous. The feta cheese in the salad so fresh that it crumbled under your fork. A gentlemen entertained the Sunday s guests with his << mandoline >> like instrument and elegant voice. The dining area features large tables for families to enjoy a great meal and is ornated with pictures. The place comprise of a greek markets selling canned good to greek wine. We could not eat the pastries which we took home. Nothing fancy but a down to earth very enjoyable taverna. Will be back.

It's my first time to eat here. Here is what I have to say: Food- Great. You can tell that they take pride in the authenticity of their food. Everything tasted fresh. Price- reasonable Wait- you have to order & pay and wait for the food to arrive. Its not that long, food came fast & freshly made. They have a simple dining area where you can get your own water & take out containers if you want to bag your leftovers. Parking- available, but since its a busy place in a corner spot, they have available valet for free. Up to you if you want to tip. I have added this place in my to go places when I visit LA.

Very Good, Cool Dejavu

Pappa Christos is pretty freakin awesome. Me and a few other art teachers meet up here about once a month for beer and falafel,

Food is gross, pre-cooked, stale. Staff openly tried to shame me into paying 15-30% tip on carry out food, and when I did not leave them a tip for doing nothing, gave me inedible food. Most of the food had to be thrown out. My photos are on Yelp and are hard to miss. This just happened yesterday. Then they charged me a $3 unauthorized tip anyway!!! Shameless fast food type workers, who act like aggressive beggars in a third world country! I paid nearly $200 for food and groceries and was trolled for tips everywhere! At every counter! Luckily I don't embarrass easily and can save others who might feel stuck into paying ridiculous gratuities. Do not believe the compensated "Yelp Elite 2022" reviews. Those people leave dishonest reviews for getting "perks" of some type from Yelp and the restaurant. Pathetic! Save your money and go somewhere else. Even the pre-packaged cookies were disgusting.

This is a very un-fancy restaurant. You stand in line to order your food and they bring it to your table. The dining room is a large room with many tables and chairs and a very plain, down to earth atmosphere. The food is very authentic Greek. If you don't mind an open and noisy room you will be able to enjoy the food. They also have an extensive Greek grocery and bakery.

Great food and market for Greek products the stuff and the service is great as well , a small greek place in Los Angeles .

Always a good meal here. The prices have gone up quite a bit. The potatoes are still one of my favs. Had Falaffel today- it was just Ok not great. The decor is still a little primitive but you go there for the great food not service or decor. A classic L.A Place

We love Papa Cristos for their freshly prepared and delicious food. All menu items are great! The deli carries great products. I love the organic olive oil I purchased there recently. A few times a day they bring out fresh whole wheat and regular french baguettes - BEST in town! I love eating it right from the bag with some olive oil to dip.

Very casual setting with excellent food- you can never go wrong with some great olive filled salads with lettuce/tomato/cheese viniagrette, lamb chops, kebobs, gyros, and pita breads. Everything that we've ordered at Papa Cristo's always met or exceeded expectations and enormous! The service was always warm, welcoming, and fast! It is true, you must come to appreciate the bounty. I've never had such great lamb chops anywhere else. They also have valet parking in the back - very convenient! Price is reasonable for a plate of goodness - I would recommend their either cherry or pomegranate homemade drinks. Tried their baklavas and also delicious.

Papa Cristo's is the place to go for a great gyros in LA. It's loaded with lamb and bursting with flavor. The tzatziki is good and so is the baklava. They know their prices, but it's worth it. It's a lot of food and you'll leave feeling satisfied.

Love their food - like my Yia-Yia (Grandmother in Greek) used to make years ago in Chicago. Well worth the trip.

I really think this place can transport you to Greece. I feel it's authentic. We typically order while in the office. When I visit the restaurant, I think that the only little issue is that while in the counter... The display makes it look too old or filthy. There's something I would totally remodel about this place. They have an interesting little supermarket and sitting place outdoors and indoors. People and customer service is generous. I even had the chance to meet Papa Cristos, sweet man btw.

This is an excellent place to get Greek food. We had the lamb gyro plate. This is good for two people and excellent. There is also an attached market which is worth looking at. The parking is in the back. Note that there is a Thursday evening dinner which gives people a good exposure to Greek food and some culture.

We drove across town looking for Papa Cristos. We were craving Greek food so we found Papa Cristo's online, with high recommendations, and 63 years in business. You place your order at the front, where the menu is displayed above (with pictures of the food) pay, grab your silverware and go find a table in the next, large, room. They bring out your food and find you by the number you display for them-given to you at the payment counter. The Gyros plate was good, but similar to many Gyro places across the country. The 1/2 Chicken was good, but other extraordinary. I was expecting more of a home cooking, uniquely flavorful Greek food experience, given the place's 63 year history. The Spanakopita was a bit doughy and dry, not flakey. I was looking for the Mom cooking in the back Greek food

Come by once a month to get my Greek fix...Honey, Cheese, Olive oil and other delicacies that Papa Cristo has. Had the gyro sandwich...a full meal with lots of meat. The flavor is great, almost like having a gyro in omonia square in athens.

The food is excellent...We had grilled octopus, calamari and a shrimp and feta cheese pizza...A friend had the chicken...All delicious and plentiful servings. There is also an attached grocery with Greek food+ Free valet parking in the back. A genuinely good experience.

Top quality ingredients, attentive service and an interesting mix of deli, market and restaurant make Papa Christo's a must visit whenever we're in the neighborhood. As you might expect they feature Greek cooking and imported goods but there's also a nice smattering of other Mediterranean items for sale. Deservedly popular, Papa Christo's can get cramped when it's busy but it's worth it. I highly recommend the beef kebab.

...despite price increases of approximately $1 per sandwich during the past year this is still (arguably) the best deal for Greek cuisine in the city of Los Angeles. The lamb gyros are HUGE and DELICIOUS and the lamb chops are tasty. In the summer there is an all you can eat (well seconds and thirds on the house anyway) outdoor barbecue served weekends only. You can eat in (after ordering/paying at the counter they will bring your order to your table) or take out. You won't find any tourists on parade at this place. Just locals who are in the know and most definitely know what they are doing !

Its always rewarding to have a gyro in any city you are visiting. Love greek food, its always comfort food to me and Papa Cristo makes it happen here. The gyro is delicious and decent price at $7. Also there is a deli and grocery store attached to the restaurant. They have an all-you-can-eat special in the evenings and live music & belly dancing on Friday & Saturday nights. Very popular & fun, Papa is at the restaurant; extremely friendly & warm, shake his hand and enjoy the food!

Where or how to order wasn't immediately obvious of you go in through the back entrance. It's semi fast-food style, but not fast food. You order, pay, then they take it to your table. I got the kebab souvlaki. The meat was perfectly prepared and was wonderful, and the Greek pita was exceedingly fresh and delicious. The potato spice was very good, and they sell it there in the shop, too, though unfortunately the potatoes were not exceedingly fresh. The tsatsiki was well made and dressed perfectly the souvlaki. We got some Kalamata olives, Greek feta and Greek pastries to go back to our hotel with, and they were all first quality. The photos of beautiful places in Greece are great in the dining room, and it definitely has the feel of an old family restaurant, which it is! The staff is wonderfully friendly and helpful. This place is a keeper on our list of LA area restaurants.

I met a friend here for lunch on Sunday. It was busy but not extremely so. This is a deli restaurant combo. Order your food at the counter and they bring it to your table. I ordered the falafel sandwich and my friend ordered the gyro. Both of us said the food was great and fresh. Service was fast and friendly. There was live music...a mandolin player that sang which brought the entire experience together. They serve beer and wine Greek of course. We finished with a nice baklava.

I was going to order a traditional Souvlaki plate of skewered lamb, maybe ask they substitute the Greek salad for a side order of Tabouli, and for desert the Karithopita walnut cake, with a dollop of vanilla ice cream on to, of course. But I didn't, for I could not resist ordering a Gyro, with extra onions. Indeed, I've never had anything else at Papa Cristo in the 40 years I've been wandering in. I'm sure the other dishes are great, They certainly look it on the other tables. Yes, it's gotten pricey at $10 or so in the last few years, but now that Im also older as is the iconic Papa Cristo's I eat less, and take home the leftover for a separate and still memorable meal. I do promise myself I'll order something else, next time, maybe for my wake.

This wonderful Greek deli and restaurant is as authentic as it could be!! The food is traditional Greek, think moussaka, lamb, hummus, etc. It's fresh and delicious. The prices are very reasonable. It's a casual atmosphere with order in or order out choices. Lots of parking in the back.

Best Greek food ever. Make sure you try the rack of lamb!!! We had fab appetizers gyros skewers dessert all excellent land authentic. Great before the USC game!!!

Papa Cristos is nice. Decent food served in a cafeteria style setting. If you're looking for ambience this is not the place. More casual dining where you can dress in t-shirt and jeans. The staff is very nice however.

I did not eat in the restaurant but had the food as take-out. Delicious! The lamb chops were wonderfully seasoned and tender. The gyros were some of the best ever. Loved the lemon potatoes. Falafel was a bit dry and hummus runny. Baba ganouch was excellent.The warm pita was very good. Definitely would get food from there again.

My husband and I have been searching for a good Greed restaurant for a long time. We usually only go to the Mad Greek on our way to Las Vegas. We almost drove 100 miles to fill our craving, but decided to take a chance on Paps Cristo's ~ What an amazing surpise! We ordered the Gyro plate and wow wow wow wow... it was supurb! The ambiance simple and they made us feel like we were a part of their family, a new home away from home. Live music was just the right touch. Not only did we save a 200 mile round trip but now we have a new place to dine.

We came with a party of ten people, and we ordered a variety of things. Chicken kabobs, spicy beef kabobs, lamb chops, greek salad, and greek pizza, to name a few. everything was well prepared and well seasoned. The meats had been marinated well and were very tender and succulent. The potatoes, oh the potatoes! Those were out of this world good, so moist and flavorful. The salad was fantastic also, very fresh. It was a great meal. We will be coming back for sure. Oh I forgot to mention the desserts. They have so much flavor without being super sweet. Honest ingredients, robust flavors.

Near Downtown L.A. and U.S.C. campus, authentic Greek food. This informal, authentic Greek restaurant is a throwback to the variety of quaint, ethnic dining that used to be so plentiful in L.A.

We just got home from having the most fun and wonderful dinner here ! For 25 bucks plus tax and tip you get a wine tasting of 2 whites and 2 reds, you get assorted appetizers and pita, follow that with salad and dinner of lamb and chicken and potatoes and string beans and complete your meal with baklava and thick sweet greek coffee. And a beautiful and talented belly dancer ! It's all served family style for the Thursday night dinner and we sat with 6 people we'd never met and were friends with by the evening's end. You HAVE to go !!! And the staff - the best !!!

What a wonderful find! This place is part deli, part bakery, part grocery store, and part restaurant. The pita bread is super fresh and tasty, the best baba ghanouj ever, falafel, and the most tender, juicy, delicious beef kabobs you can imagine. This place is the real deal with Papa Cristo right there behind the counter and live belly dancing on Thursday nights! not to be missed!!

A great restaurant with virgin greek cuisine tastes and deserts..i tottaly enjoy some dishes and furtremore tha local greek wines..which i find them similar or even better than some french wines...i strongly recomend it...lovely cuisine, and a warm feeling of greek hospitality

This time we did a take out... their Gyro is my most favorite and my husband is happy eating their Moussaka. Great food, no frills all the flavor. Check it out.

We've always driven by this place and finally decided to stop in. There is a mediterranean market you walk through, from the parking area, to get to the counter service/restaurant area. All of the employees were so helpful and nice! Once we placed our order the food came out in timely fashion. While waiting for our food, we browsed the market and had samples of some olive tapenade and hummus. Our food was delicious and hit the spot! We ordered the Kefte and Gyro sandwiches. Then we went back to order spanakopita (because we had sampled it while waiting for the food). My daughter had to go back once again because she wanted to try the Loukoumades for dessert. We took half of everything home! DELICIOUS!!! We also took a jar of their olive tapenade home!!

We had lunch here. It was good, though for Australians, probably a bit old-fashioned and unadventurous Greek food. It is all served on plastic plates and bowls, which is a bit strange! Order and pay at the counter and they bring it to you. The deli is terrific, and we bought some really lovely Greek yoghurt. If you are in the area, it's well worth a visit. Papa Cristo himself is a delightful presence.

been there long time ago. very neighborhood feel. and from memory, it was pretty good. very garlicky, though.

Went here based on the reviews we read. Well...very disappointed. Can't believe people think this is great Greek food. We are from Chicago, and Papa Cristos can't compare to our great Greek restaurants in Chicago. The menu was more of a "fast food" kind. We had the "greens" and it was cold like a salad. We asked someone to heat it up. Sorry...... I guess people in LA just have never experienced real Greek food the way it's supposed to be cooked. So they think this restaurant is so great because it's been there so long!

If you love Greek food, this is a must. Parking on site with valets to watch over your car. Dining in the Taverna or on the patio if you prefer. You order off the main deli floor and there are plenty of servers to take your order so the line moves quickly. So many different things to enjoy like Gyros, or Tsirpoura (grilled white fish) or grilled lamb chops or kabobs. All perfectly prepared. You can have a full salad on the side, or a dinner plate with salad and steamed potatoes that are so yummy, you can't stop eating them. Also, veggie only dishes like falafels. All served at your table and if you like a good Greek wine, I suggest a 2014 Skouras, St. George, Aghiorghitiko, red that is very delightful with all of the items we had. Desserts? Get some Baklava! Sweet and satisfying. It's a little pricey, but worth every penny. And, stock up on Greek specialties in the deli. There are many servers to give you samples and help you make the right selection. You won't be sorry. A must go!

Fantastic. Went there midday on a Saturday. I had the gyro salad and my partner had lamp chops. I dont really care for lamb, but these chops were perfectly grilled and delicious. Served quickly and thats the secret to lamb! The gyro salad was huge - served on two plates (salad on one and meat on another). This salad is big enough to share for sure. Veggies were fresh and crisp, the sauces were wonderful - could have eaten bowls of the tahini, taziki. But it was the gyro meat that STOLE THE SHOW. They do something magical in on that grill. You can just tell that its quality meat - not some gyro you buy at a mall or state fair food booth. It was tender yet it had this cripsy outside to it. It was hands down the best gyro meat I have even eaten. The pita was delicious too. The dining room is old skool family style and that just adds even more to the experience - you are surrounding by Greek familes from newborns to 90-year olds. Try to save room for the pastries or take a bag home like we did. This place is fantastic. The price is a steal.

This spot has 2 major key attributes. Parking & seating. We came during lunch hour and easily ordered and got our food quickly. I got the chicken kabob pizza. It was super good. Lots of flavor. This was my first time visiting. I think that'd be a good one for a first timer. Also got the Papa Cristo root beer. Which was also really good. Overall I spent about $13 for lunch. Which is decent. Pretty average in LA.

I have lived in LA for 28 years and if I get a new visitor from out of town and want to show them Los Angeles, I make time to take them to Papa's and make sure they even meet him! They have a chill ambience, great food and greek wine. You can shop in the market next to the restaurant and get your olive oil and coffee as well. Very fun place for the whole family.

For more than 60 years, Papa Cristo's has been serving the best Greek food. It has always been on the corner at 2771 West Pico Boulevard. The place is painted blue and white and is so cute. They have dinning and a market. In 1968 Chrys purchased the business from his father. He wanted to make a great eatery to go with the market. What a success it was and is. Papa Cristo’s caters to Los Angeles and as far south as Orange County, serving up family-style menus. The market has great Greek items that are hard to find elsewhere. They have the best spices for sale. It is a super place to shop. The place is kept so clean and the service for dinning is great. They know the menu and will help you. Everyone in the staff is really nice. There is not a bad dish to be had here. Their lamb stew is so great but I think only served on the weekends. But that is okay, because their roasted lamb with beans and rice is amazing. All of their salads are great. My favorite is their large salad with lamb added on. You must try their shrimp platter. It is so good. This is a wonderful place and they make you feel welcome.

Papa Cristo's is a casual place, you order at a counter and then take a number to a table, have a seat and wait for your food to be delivered. There is also a market with both imported groceries (Greek, with a few Italian, Spanish, and Turkish things too) and fresh Greek specialties in a deli case. If you like gyros, then this is the best place in town to enjoy them. They are delicious. It's fun to go with a group and order several things to share so you can try the unique menu items. (The grilled squid is tasty.) I've never had anything that I didn't like. For dessert, try a Greek coffee and one of the many sweets they sell. The hours are more limited than your average restaurant, so check before you go. The parking lot in the back is staffed with valets so there's always a space available. Overall, it's a great value: free parking and great food, for cheap!

Since 1948 Papa Christo has been serving real Greek taverna food to the local Greek population. The Greek cathedral is across the road and you hear more Greek than English among the customers. The food is delicious (recommend the lamb chops or souvlaki plate) and the import store has tons of Greek delicacies.

Papa Christo's is the real deal...that is if you love all things Greek food. The food is exceptional in a relaxed, bright atmosphere. Try the BBQ on the weekends and stop by the store and deli counter before you leave. You won't be sorry. Super easy valet parking, great staff. Easily and far away the best Greek restaurant in LA.

Papa Christo's is half grocery store half restaurant. The seating area does not have much ambience but you are there for the food. You go to the counter and order and the food is brought to you. I have been coming here for over 10 years and the consistency of the dishes is always the same, good portions and flavorful food. I have now started ordering to go when I am in the area for work. Their sweet selection of baklava s is incredible. Spend some time in the grocery store, they have a great selection of imported condiments and food.

Papa Cristo's has been in business since 1946 and it is still going strong. We have eaten there several times, I will continue to go back! You can have a snack, try the fried cheese! You can have lunch, try the Greek salad and soup! You can have dinner, try the the fresh fish, it is the best. You can have dessert, try the baklava, with a cup of great coffee. You can order to go, this seems to be very popular. You can call ahead as they are always busy. This is a no frills restaurant, full of delicious food and friendly smiles. After placing your order take a few minutes to look through all the yummy imports! There is a deli counter, fresh baked goods, cans, bottles and frozen. I am Italian, I love the Greek olive oils. If he is around Papa will take time to walk you through the store, he loves to tell stories! . Proceed to the dining room where your food will be served. We like to sit a one of the large tables and talk to other diners, old world style. Last visit they had a guitarist playing, I hope they keep him. As we enjoyed our meal the staff began to set up for a large party. I would come here for that special occasion! What ever meal or sandwich you order have the Greek potatoes, yummy! I have had the meat entries and the vegetarian, I could not pick a favorite. If you like both, try the stuffed peppers! Always have a salad with their homemade dressing! This is an everything for everyone restaurant, lovers in a corner, families of 6, old friends catching up, business as usual. The dining room is wheel chair friendly, the restrooms are clean. I always feel at home here! Hope to see you soon!! If you are,very lucky, you may be surprised with a bear hug and peck on the cheek from Papa himself. This is the only dessert I need.

What to say? For Greek, you want to go to Papa Cristo (apparently since 1948). In SoCal for a visit but just on the verge of Greek Easter so we wanted to pick up some pastries, wine, other Greek products for the holiday. This is the best. We've been to the restaurant in past years (lunch...also great).

There are not a whole lot of choices for authentic Greek in LA, surprisingly, so Papa Christos is a much appreciated staple for those looking for a taste of the real thing. The best advice is to stick to the basics here: Gyro's, lamb chops, lemon potatoes, spanakopita. The taramasalata is solid. So is the saganaki. I have never liked the octopus here. Rubbery through and through. Don't expect too much of the atmosphere. Fold out tables and chairs and bright lights...

This place is very crowded on weekend but line moves fast because of very efficient staffing. We will be back on this place again. For sure.

Papa Christos is a traditional Greek market selling Greek cheese and other tasty delights it also has a restaurant where specializes in Greek food it is well worth a visit

I've had my share of Greek food, even in Greece. This was one of my least favorable experiences. I ordered the souvlaki sandwhich, which was below average. It was more salad then souvlaki. There was an abundance of cold lettuce with a few pieces of warm meat, as well as one piece of tomato, grilled onion, and pepper in a pita. The atmosphere was lacking despite having a live bouzouki player. This is not a good example of Greek cuisine.

Actually about a 4.5. Wonderful, friendly, casual place with as close to authentic Greek food as can be found here. We came for birthday celebrations and ordered lots of food. The best dish was the grilled squid appetizer, which was so fresh and flavorful. The greens and pickled beets were a little bland and not exactly like the horta in Greece, but still quite good. The green beans in tomato were a nice, homey dish. The person who ordered chicken liked it and the accompanying marinated potatoes were tasty. I did not try the spanakopizza, but hear it was good. The shrimps were a bit disappointing, overcooked and soggy, but still okay, just not like the fresh grilled ones in Greece. The flat bread tasted like it had been near lamb, which to me has a disagreeable taste, so I did not eat it. The servers were so nice and there were samples of wine that I did not try, but were enjoyed by the others who bought bottles to take home. There’s valet parking.

Papa Cristos is indeed an LA classic that provides a dining experience that feels like you're in Greece enjoying the sights and sounds of the country along with the fabulous food. It is one of the few places in LA where you can have a multicourse meal, a glass of wine while watching and cheering on a sultry belly dancer for about 20 bucks! (Thursday night family dinners). Uncle Mark and Papa Cristo himself will treat you like family and make sure that you have a delicious meal and a fun time. A festive and appropriate place for groups -- especially with paying first at the counter-- no confusion with splitting a bill. The pulpo, tzaziki and roasted potatoes are especially tasty.

Cheap and tasty! Everything is so fresh. I bring visitors to LA here all the time.

This was only my second visit to Papa Cristo's, and it was every bit as good as I remember. The gyro pizza is a culinary masterpiece. The Greek Salad is, as you'd expect, top drawer. A raspberry spritzer was suggested to my wife - I can make the same suggestion down the line. You wait in a line to order, then your meal is brought to you, this does not detract, but rather adds to the authenticity. The only thing I would change are the harsh lights from the high ceiling - but certainly not a deal breaker. Can't wait to go back.

Love the belly dancers

Best Greek Ever

Papa Cristo has been one of our favorite...go to...Greek Places for many years! This joint started as a Greek Deli across from St.Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church in 1948 and evolved into a Family Style "Taverna". Not an upscale place... the neighborhood is seedy BUT they have their own free parking in back. Obviously the prices have escalated over the years but so has everyone else's. You order in the front...find your table and the food is delivered...when you're done you can exit through the Deli and pick up some goodies to take with you! Papa Cristo has your usual Greek dishes , Shawarma, Gyros, Greek Roasts. My favorite has always been the Lamb Chop Plate. A huge platter with salad, roasted potatoes, Pita and 3 good sized Lamb Chops with Tzatziki Sauce. On Saturday our family visited there I ordered the Lamb Chops Platter...the price has gone up to $21.95...unfortunately the chops were hard...& full of gristle & fat....although if you could find a piece that was chewable it was tasty. This has happened before but I ordered them again because it's been awhile....I assume they are using some very low quality lamb. I still love this place BUT take my suggestion...pass on the chops!!!...I won't order them again...EVER!!!

We knew we were in for a treat when we saw the large Greek Orthodox Church and school complex. Papa Christos is across the street. Ordering is via the deli takeaway counter but the dining room is very spacious, comfortable and welcoming. The menu is wonderful and servings are generous. We had the chicken kebabs which came with a Greek salad , pita, tzaziki and beautiful potatoes. The falafel are different from Israeli but really good. The marides were a treat. The Dolmades were even better the second day after we took leftovers home. It was all a treat and we dream of returning - but next time we will over order to have more leftovers. The deli has a wonderful array of Greek goods, so be prepared to shop.

We had the best time at Papa Cristo’s Thursday night dinner. There were 8 of us family members including five and 10 yr old girls and we all really enjoyed it. It starts at 6:30 with wine sampling after which you buy a glass of your chosen wine for, I think, $3 or $5. You sit at long tables and are served, family style, enough traditional Greek food to feed a few football teams. They even accomodated our vegetarians. (We called ahead with that request.)And it is delicious !!! There is so much that we were even provided boxes to take the leftovers home. It’s the sort of thing where everyone is in a good mood, especially when the belly dancer comes out. And all of this for around $25 per person. I think it’s the jolliest, yummiest best bargain in town. It is Thursdays only and you do need a reservation.There is parking in the back. Dress is very casual.

I was served the best gyro since I was in Europe. The gyro was large and only seven dollars. The restaurant is also connected to a bakery and store. So its a one stop shop to little Greece. The people were helpful.

I first visited with my son enjoying a Gyro, This soon led to return trips for Greek Salads, Mousika, Grilled Baby Octopus Chicken, you name it they have it. The place has a free parking, you enter from the back of the store into the Market, stop and enjoy an olive or fresh bread, don’t forget to stop on the way out for some Great Greek for home. You go the order counter do not worry about the long line it goes fast, and tried to decided what to eat This is not and easy task, I suggest you order family style you will not be disappointed with anything they have. Proceed to the tables they are long and you will meet other people. Just enjoy the best Greek in Los Angeles

Papa Cristo's is a charming and magical mix of European deli and market, family run restaurant and perpetual party. I've never seen a quiet day or night in the place! It is always bustling with a lunch crowd popping in to pick up gyros sandwiches (some of the best in town) and a dinner crowd enjoying the lively atmosphere, loving service and delicious food. Its small, but thoroughly stocked market, carries a wide selection of hard to find foodie delights from all over Europe and the deli has a fantastic selection of salamis, sausages, hams and cheese along with olives and fresh baked spanokkopita. Around the corner from the deli, you'll find a counter staffed by a couple of efficient and lovely ladies ready to take your order. Go for the gyros plate, the lamb chops, the saganaki and the shrimp special (a cup full of twenty or so large shrimp swimming in a deliciously addictive garlic tomato broth). Don't forget to load up on the free olives and roasted garlic and hot peppers and grab a loaf of fresh backed bread to accompany all your tasty meat! And say "hello" to Papa! He's usually behind the deli counter or floating around the restaurant checking to make sure everyone is having a great time, and they always are.

My guests and I found the food delicious and the staff very helpful and friendly. There was 3 of us and we had 2 appetizers, a main course each and a dessert each for under $80.00

Kinda a hole in the wall deli type place, but the food is very good.

Went recently and their lamb chops were tough and gristly. Their Greek spaghetti's flavors weren't balanced. Their vegetarian Moussaka had a tinny taste. Sad.

I remember this place as a kid, some 30 years ago. it is still standing and offers good food. Across the street is St. Sophia's church where I attended Greek Easter every year. Oh the memories of eating the bread, olives and Greek feta from Papa Cristo's. Anything from the deli is good as are the dinners. Be adventurous and try the grapeleaves or spanikopita. It's all good. The bread is great! There is also a selection of wines. Grab food to go and a bottle of wine and go to a park and enjoy!

Chris and his daughter Annie run an authentic Greek market and taverna-style eatery just like in Greece. The prices may be a little high, but so is the quantity and quality. The taverna serves delicious gyro sandwiches; very good loukaniko pizza; tasty loukoumathades; and plentiful plates with roasted potatoes, Greek salad. Stop in for lunch. There is plenty of seating inside and outside. Open on weekends; Not open on Monday. We also love to do our shopping for Greek groceries like their homemade frozen spanakopita or tiropita, savory cheeses from Greece, dips made daily, wide selection of olives, olive oils, Greek wines, meats and pastries. We have used them for catering our International days at school and family get-togethers. The build your own gyro is a great choice for large parties. A definite landmark in LA!

If you like good food exempt from the fads and pretense Papa Cristos is the place to partake! Fresh, authentic, flavorful, homemade and just downright great Greek comfort food! The lamb and feta sandwich is beyond exceptional as are almost any other choices you will make! Love the authenticity of the place, get a real kick seeing Papa Cristo surveying his restaurant/deli counter/store- if I lived closer I would be there all the time!

The best, I love it. Must have a drop of Greek in me!

I have been coming here for nearly 8 years! That being said, it is the best greek food in town, if not in the whole U.S. Family nights on Thursday are the best with wine, lots of food, desserts, music, belly dancer, and just all around best family fun. The lamb gyro is my ultimate fave along with the spanakopitas. I would definately venture out to there anyday!

Super authentic food and good service. I really liked the taste of the food. Thank you!

we love this place. there is actually a papa Christo. when we went for the first time we couldn't find the entrance. here comes out this little old man with more energy then a 20 year old, and says. "i'm here, come in and welcome" they have indoor/outdoor dining, a small grocery/deli/bakery on site. very casual, as you order in one room, then sit where you want. the indoor dining room is nothing fancy by any means. so if you're looking for fancy bells and whistles, then this is not for you. however, if you want delicious, authentic greek food then look no further. this place is family/kid, and date friendly. we've had most of the items, and have never been disappointed. try it, you won't be sorry!

OK it was a nice place. We ordered the Mousaka, the gyros, the chicken kabob sandwich and the Greek Lasagna (can't remember what it's called). We were a big group and the place was very busy but we got our food in decent time. The chicken kabob sandwich was good and the pita bread was amazing. The mousaka had a very different type of bechamel sauce then any moussaka i've ever had before and I have had a few. It was cheesy and weird. The Mousaka had potatoes and Zucchini, the lasagna had too much garlic. We shared our meals and that was really everyone's point of view not just my table. The gyros were ok but I've had much better. They were definitely overpriced the sandwich is $9 and the plates average $15. The quantities are very large. The desserts were good.

Had a late lunch here with family recently. The food and atmosphere were fantastic. Expect to stand in line to order your food, grab your number and try to find a table (even though a Sunday afternoon, it was quick to get a table). The Moussaka was prepared the way I had it in Greece - in an individual dish vs. casserole style. It was perfect. My child's kabobs were amazing and the plate was cleaned. Greek salad, pita, baked feta, and amazing Gyro meat - of which, I have truly never had better. Valet parking is a plus for the area and the in-restaurant market is a great way to take home the flavor. Have fun with it and take it for what it is -- amazing food.

We attended Here on recommendation from our Air BnB host. Simple menu, simple food but done very well. Restaurant is nothing fancy but that’s the beauty of this place. We had stuffed vine leaves, sizzling feta, veggie plaki and lamb chops, with 2 bottles of the Retsina for approx $76. We spoke with Papa Christo himself during and after our meal who was a gentleman. Definitely worth a visit.

Visiting Los Angeles frequently I'm always on the lookout for great restaurants convenient to wherever I happen to be in the city. Papa Cristos is a place my son found, he's a student at USC and lives within walking distance. From the very first its been consistent and good. The chicken kebab is great as are their baklava - my family is Armenian and we are fussy, fussy, fussy about baklava (pronounced with a 'p' instead of 'b' in our circles.) Its not in the best part of Los Angeles but it isn't terrible and I've had no trouble walking a night there. The prices are reasonable given the quality...next time I'm getting mousaka! Try it and you will see. Wonderful.

Saw this place while driving down Pico and decided to try it. Best decision I made all day! Ordered a gyros sandwich and small side Greek salad. Gyro was so huge, I only ate about 2/3rd of it. Never even touched the salad. Although I ordered at the counter, one of their waiters was very helpful, bringing me extra tzatziki and 2 to-go containers. Prices are fair and the food was excellent! 5 star place in my book!

I was in the area so I decided to stop by and have a bite to eat. I ordered a Falafel sandwich which cost around $10 a bit pricey but it was a big fat pita sandwich. The sandwich was very good and had plenty of salad inside which was more than enough food for me. There's plenty of space and tables to sit down and enjoy your food, there's also a patio area outside with a fountain.

Drove by then checked it on line...excellent, packed and very friendly! Atmosphere felt like we were in Greece. guess that will be next trip!