DISCOVER SELENE

Lower Manhattan’s Newest Greek Hot Spot

By Alexandra Anastasio

 

Nestled in the vibrant Financial District, Selene stands out as a one-of-a-kind Greek restaurant, seamlessly blending the traditional flavors of Greece with a contemporary flair. Since moving into the neighborhood nearly a year ago, Selene has become a fixture for locals and tourists alike. Even before stepping inside, the beautiful floral archway extends a warm welcome and provides an ideal spot for the perfect photo op. And this is just the start of your Selene experience!

Olga Ladna, Director of Operations at Selene, drew inspiration from her experiences when conceptualizing the restaurant. Her vision was to introduce a feminine touch to the Fi-Di area, typically associated with a more masculine atmosphere. With a background in managing French, Greek, and Mediterranean eateries, Olga’s Ukrainian heritage also significantly shaped the restaurant’s menu offerings.

A RELAXED AMBIANCE
The mix of modern and natural elements that reflect the representation of Selene, the Titan Goddess of the Moon, brings an overall feeling of warmth. From the warm lighting to the carefully curated decor, Selene offers patrons a relaxing yet still upbeat dining atmosphere. The welcoming decor is complemented by the attentive and friendly staff, who ensure that every guest who walks through their doors feels right at home.

Mediterranean cuisine is well-known for its enticing flavors and fresh ingredients and is celebrated for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and healthful qualities. A beloved culinary tradition, Mediterranean-inspired dishes are enjoyed by people worldwide.  

One of the key factors that sets this cuisine apart is its emphasis on balance and simplicity. Dishes are often characterized by their straightforward preparation methods and minimal use of processed ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The freshness and top-notch quality of each dish at Selene are unmistakable.  

Patrons can dine on unique and authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine right here in Lower Manhattan. Whatever your palette craves, Selene offers a variety of options to choose from.  

Start off with a inventive cocktail: The Mediterranean Margarita, includes mango, lime, and agave, left me craving a vacation. Their table-side Champagne cart is an excellent option if bubbly is more to your taste.

To start, the small plate options are plentiful, offering a variety of choices that can make it challenging to pick just one. If you’re a fan of avocados, the Tempura Avocado Fries served with a sweet chili sauce are a delicious option. For fish lovers, choices such as the Charred Octupus, Crab Cakes, or Shrimp Cocktail will leave you craving more. For lighter fare, try the Caesar Tahini Salad, a delightful twist on the classic Caesar. This delicious dish features whole grilled romaine lettuce, complemented by chickpeas, and topped with anchovies (which can be omitted upon request). 

THE MAIN EVENT
For the main course, Selene offers a variety of options—regardless of whether you’re looking for something by land or sea, this menu has you covered. We chose the Grilled Hanger Steak with a chimichurri sauce accompanied by a side of mashed potatoes, and the Lemon Chicken with roasted vegetables. For those craving alternative meat options, dishes include the Grilled Lamb Chops, Grilled Ribeye, or Selene’s Burger. For seafood lovers, the choices are abundant. Grilled Lobster Tails, Stuffed Branzino, Sesame-seared Tuna, Of course, save room for dessert!

In addition to dinner, the restaurant offers a lunch and brunch menu, making it a perfect spot for a weekend get-together with friends and a trendy lunch spot for those weekday lunches.  

Selene goes beyond dinner service, extending its offerings to include separate menus for both lunch and brunch. This versatility makes it an ideal destination for relaxed weekend gatherings with friends and weekday business lunches. With its diverse menu options and inviting ambiance, Selene has you covered with its versatile dining options. 

For more information on Selene,
visit selenenyl.com