Those looking for a place where “old world tradition and culinary innovation” collide — in a delicious way — will find it at Basils Greek Dining in Aurora.
“Basil is an herb that in essence means royalty or king,” said Angelo Chresanthakes, general manager of Basils. “And that is how we feel about our customers, that is how we train our staff and that is how we lead our restaurant.”
Since 2009, Basils has been celebrating Mediterranean cuisine at their charming location just west of the Westfield Fox Valley Mall.
“We want people to be able to escape from their everyday lives when they come to Basils,” Chresanthakes said. “That is why people go out to eat to these type of restaurants. We offer fine dining in your neighborhood.”
Here’s the dish on this local favorite.
What’s on the menu? A creative menu, from a variety of steaks, chops, chicken, lamb, seafood and authentic Greek options to pasta, soups and salads, there is something for everyone at Basils. Start off with the grilled octopus or the saganaki, a fried cheese appetizer that is dramatically set on fire at your table.
About the owners: Basils Greek Dining is owned by the Bravo Restaurant Group, which was started by a group of three individuals and is family-owned. This is their first restaurant venture.
A mission statement or philosophy: “We want our customers happier walking out then they were walking in,” Chresanthakes said. “We do that by providing the highest quality food, service and standards.”
What’s the decor like? Simple yet elegant, white linen tablecloths, a warm color palette and chic accent lighting makes Basils an upscale and comfortable place to dine. Their lounge/bar area has a vast granite counter with ample bar stool seating as well as several high top tables to grab a drink and a bite to eat.
Food specialties: Roast lamb shanks are marinated in olive oil and garlic and then slow roasted until the tender meat falls off the bone. And the gyros — which Chresanthakes said are one of their most popular dishes — are a must-have. “Our customers are blown away by our gyros,” he said. For those who want to enjoy seafood, the Mediterranean sea bass served with grilled vegetables is a popular choice.
We’re different because: “Service is what sets us apart,” Chresanthakes said. “We are fine dining in your neighborhood.”
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Extras: Basils offers a private banquet room for parties of 15 to 50, and a larger space for up to 150 guests. They offer a full catering menu and a convenient carry out menu as well. The upscale bar and lounge is a great place to grab a quick bite and sample wine from around the world, craft beer or a cocktail. Outdoor dining is also available when Mother Nature cooperates.
Price range: Appetizers range from $9 to $15, soups are $5 and a variety of salads range from $7 to $9. A generous dish of pasta like the vodka gnocchi is $19, roast lamb shank is $24 and their famous gyros are $18.
Logistics: Basils Greek Dining is at 4000 Fox Valley Center Drive in Aurora, on the circle drive of Westfield Fox Valley Mall. They are open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Call 630-692-1300 or go to www.basilsgreekdining.com.
Jane Donahue is a freelance writer.