Funny Greek

Walking into Funny Greek for the first time at Funny Greek, located at 6184 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43232, United States, feels like discovering a neighborhood secret that locals quietly protect. I stopped by on a weekday afternoon after hearing a coworker rave about the gyros, and the place was already buzzing with regulars who clearly knew what they wanted. That kind of steady foot traffic usually says more than any advertisement ever could.

The menu leans into classic Greek diner comfort food without trying to overcomplicate things. You’ll see gyros sliced fresh, chicken souvlaki grilled to order, and falafel that actually has texture instead of turning to mush. One of the owners explained that the meat is cooked daily and shaved in small batches, a method commonly recommended by culinary programs like the Culinary Institute of America for maintaining flavor and food safety. That attention to process shows up on the plate, especially when you bite into a gyro where the meat is hot, the pita is soft, and the balance feels intentional.

What stood out to me was the tzatziki. It’s made in-house, and you can taste the difference immediately. According to data shared by the International Dairy Foods Association, freshly prepared yogurt-based sauces retain more active cultures and flavor compounds compared to prepackaged alternatives. Here, the sauce has a clean, tangy finish that doesn’t overpower the rest of the sandwich. I watched another customer customize their order, and the staff handled it smoothly, suggesting toppings and explaining portions without rushing the line.

Service plays a big role in why reviews for this spot tend to be consistently positive. During my visit, a first-time guest asked about Greek dishes they’d never tried before, and the cashier took time to explain the differences between souvlaki, gyro meat, and shawarma-style preparation. That kind of knowledge builds trust. The National Restaurant Association has repeatedly noted that informed staff significantly improve customer satisfaction, and it’s easy to see why when questions are welcomed instead of brushed off.

The atmosphere is casual and unfussy, more diner than fine dining, which works perfectly for the food. Tables turn over quickly, but nobody feels pushed out. I overheard a regular joking with the cook about their usual order, and the response came back instantly. Moments like that give the place a lived-in feel that chains struggle to replicate. It reminded me of a small family-run spot I visited in Astoria years ago, where consistency and familiarity were part of the experience.

Portion sizes are generous without crossing into wasteful, which matters more than people realize. Research from the USDA has highlighted how oversized portions contribute to food waste, and here the balance feels thoughtful. You leave satisfied, not sluggish. Prices stay reasonable, especially considering the quality and preparation involved, which is likely why the lunch rush stays steady.

There are a few limitations worth noting. Seating can feel tight during peak hours, and parking along Livingston Avenue requires a bit of patience. Still, those are minor trade-offs for food that’s prepared with care and served by people who clearly know their craft. For anyone browsing reviews or looking for a reliable Greek diner in this part of Columbus, this spot delivers a straightforward, enjoyable experience rooted in good ingredients, solid technique, and genuine hospitality.