Eric S.
Yelp
GET HER TO THE GREEK
Ladies are sure to love this trendy Mediterranean place in downtown Naperville.
Vasili's serves nouveau Greek cuisine with Napervillian pricing, which is to say it's expensive but not unreasonably so. The restaurant is on the south bank of the river, next to Blue Sushi Sake Grill and across the street from Quiubo. I've been here twice now, and my wife thrice, all terrific experiences.
The spread trio ($16) is a nice variety sampler, unfortunately the tzatziki was a weak effort. It's supposed to be a blend of cucumber, garlic and herbs, but all we could taste was yogurt. The taramasalata (fish roe spread) and htipiti (feta & roasted red pepper) were great, however. 4/5
They wisely opted not to tinker with the saganaki ($12) or the choice to flambé it tableside. Better still, they use kefalograviera cheese (one of the better cheeses to use, alongside kefalotyri). The spanakopita ($18) is different than what you might expect but the layered spinach & feta pie is quite tasty. 5/5
Lamb souvlaki ($31) is wonderful despite being served sans-grains. I understand that it's a shareable plate and not an entrée, but c'mon, for thirty bucks would it kill them to include a cup of orzo? I wasn't crazy about having to order a side of rice ($11), even though it was a fair portion size. 4/5
For dessert, the table was divided on the pineapple revani ($12). My dad & wife enjoyed it, but my mom and I felt there was way too much going on with a semolina cake soaked in syrup, almonds, mint, and vanilla-ginger ice cream. The loukoumades (donuts with honey & walnuts, $12) were unanimously delicious. 4.5/5
Bread = 4.5
Circuses = 5
Our server, Isaac, took good care of us. Staff were accommodating to our party of 4 adults + 2 littles, bringing us a highchair and sitting us at a corner table with a view of the river. This was the best case scenario, since we had a folded-up stroller and extra baggage for the kids. Not being trapped in the middle of a crowded dining floor put my nerves at ease.
Vasili's has a nice outdoor patio with heaters, and there's a snazzy fountain within penny-tossing distance. Although street parking is available, spots are limited so you'll probably wind up parking in the free garage 1/2 block west of here. You'll definitely need a reservation--this place gets packed!
* TL;DR *
Whether it's a dinner date with the wife, celebrating mom's (70th!) birthday, or a ladies' night monthly meetup, Vasili's has excellent food and lively vibes for every occasion.
I found it interesting that across several visits, the majority of diners have been women. Makes sense, y'all typically have good taste (I, on the other hand, am impressed with a basket of wings and cheap beer). The music is fun, a mixture of Top 40 and club hits makes me feel like I'm partying in Mykonos.
The atmosphere is ideal for catching up with friends over small plates or impressing your partner with a romantic meal. I highly recommend Vasili's.