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ASBURY PARK – People flock from all over to sample the exotic delicacies created in this extraordinary restaurant, which has been open for over a year. It is located in the heart of this renaissance town known as “Restaurant Row.” The reason that it is so popular is their fresh seafood flown from the Mediterranean (arriving here within hours of being caught) as well as many exotic Greek specialties.

The eclectic menu features something for every individual taste, with many recipes passed down through generations. Although it is mainly the food that brings you here, you will be awed at the unique design of Synaxis, featuring two large dining areas and a large elongated bar decorated in dramatic hues of peach and a soft green. This is seen throughout the restaurant, even appearing in the designer menu covers. The Parthedon Lounge adjacent to the restaurant has recently been added featuring entertainment and other exciting events.   

Owner Sevas Tsivicos created a pleasant, exotic atmosphere which gives you the feeling of being in Greece. He used the name Synaxis as it comes from the Greek expression for gathering, reunion or to bring together, and that is actually what it does. You will see what I mean when you visit this unique restaurant, which is unlike any other along the Jersey Shore. Another amenity is that it is only three blocks from the beach.

According to Tsivicos, he wanted to do something unique that will be appreciated by his patrons. He has a natural talent, which is evident throughout the pleasant dwelling.

When asked what are the favorite ethnic dishes of the Mediterranean he replied with a broad smile,  “We are known for our fresh fish as the Mediterranean countries are all located on the sea.” It is tradition to present the fish to the customer before cooking it, and that is what they do here at Synaxis. Although seafood is their specialty, they also offer certified prime steaks and an extensive wine list featuring premier wines from Greece and around the world.

Tselios is very proud of the life-size statue of the Poseidon, the God of the sea, known in Greek mythology, which you will spot when you enter the designer restaurant.

I have dined here many times and have always been satisfied. This time we left our selections up to Tsivicos and true to form we loved everything that he selected. We began our exciting dining experience with a complimentary welcome starter with slices of Pita highlighted with Greek olives, and diced cheeses. This was followed with a specialty salad, Traditional Greek Village Salad. Vine ripened tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, kalamata olives and feta cheese were enhanced with a pleasant tasting Mediterranean dressing.

We were in awe at the next offering, the Eggplant Halloumi Tower. The presentation alone looked like a picture. This tasted as good as it looked, and I was especially fond of the grilled Cypriot goat milk cheese that was towered high with grilled eggplant on a bed of brushetta. Outstanding!

The seafood at Synaxis is presented to you before it is cooked, and it is also priced by the pound. Tsivicos related to us that the sea bass is from the Mediterranean and unique from the usual sea bass as it is a lean white fish with mild moist tender flakes. I don’t recall ever tasting anything like this before. It truthfully almost melted in my mouth it was so flavorful and succulent. I will surely order it again on my next visit, and I know that you will also be pleased with this fresh tasting offering!

Another specialty from the sea is Garides Synaxis. This is jumbo shrimp enhanced with olive oil, roasted garlic, sweet red onion and fresh basil, topped with crumbled feta cheese, served with caramelized onion risotto Greek yogurt. This too was an exhilarating dish, the perfectly prepared succulent jumbo shrimp filled with an abundance of flavor that was very satisfying.

Other ethnic choices include pastas, traditional Pastitsio (layered with spagh-roni with herb infused meats, Mediterranean cheeses, topped with a savory béchamel sauce, fresh fish by the pound; and traditional “Mousaka” raw bar, and salads.

Whatever your choice I am sure that you will want to return to sample other exciting items on the eclectic menu. Kaliorexi! (enjoy your meal).    

ADDRESS: 662 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park
TEL: 732-897-9700   FAX: 732-897-9880
CREDIT CARDS: all major
HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE
DINNER PRICES: $21 for Grilled Half Chicken to $37 for Grilled 11oz. Veal Chop
FULL BAR
RAW BAR
FULL IN-HOUSE CATERING (up to 200)  
PRIVATE PARTY ROOM
CHILDREN’S MENU
TAKE-OUT
CATERING AVAILABLE
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT on weekends featuring belly dancer “Sasha” on Saturday nights.