Plaka Greek Kitchen
A beloved, family-owned Greek restaurant serving massive portions of authentic Mediterranean comfort food, from flaming saganaki to perfectly seasoned gyro platters.
Plaka Greek Kitchen is an absolute powerhouse in the Amherst dining scene, serving as a go-to destination for massive, flavorful, and deeply satisfying Mediterranean comfort food. Located on the bustling Niagara Falls Boulevard corridor, Plaka has been feeding the families of Amherst for over two decades. The history of the restaurant is a classic American dream story, founded by a Greek immigrant family who brought their cherished family recipes from the old country and adapted them to the hungry Buffalo market.
Over the years, it has grown from a small dining room into a massive, bustling establishment that consistently ranks as one of the highest-rated casual dining spots in the suburb. When you arrive, the parking lot is large and accommodating, a necessity given the restaurant's immense popularity. Stepping inside, the decor is vibrant and festive, featuring whitewashed walls, blue accents reminiscent of the Greek islands, and beautiful Mediterranean tile work.
A step-by-step visit begins with being greeted by a typically boisterous and incredibly friendly host. Once seated, the first order of business for any insider is the Saganaki. This pan-seared Kasseri cheese is brought to your table flaming in brandy, accompanied by a loud, joyous shout of Opa! from the server.
It is the perfect icebreaker and an incredibly delicious start to the meal. From there, the menu is expansive. You can order traditional gyro wraps, but the true way to experience Plaka is to order a platter.
Whether you choose the chicken souvlaki, the lamb chops, or the massive combination platter, the portions are legendary. Every plate arrives overflowing with perfectly seasoned grilled meats, fluffy lemon-herb rice, a mountain of fresh Greek salad, and warm pita bread. An insider tip is to visit for lunch on a weekday if you want to avoid the dinner rush, which can sometimes lead to a wait.
Also, be aware that the portions are easily large enough for two meals, so come hungry or plan to take a box home. To the Amherst community, Plaka matters because it is a reliable, unpretentious gathering place that serves as the backdrop for countless birthdays, anniversaries, and casual weeknight dinners, offering a taste of the Mediterranean right in the suburbs.