About Ouzo & Feta
Ouzo & Feta is a Greek restaurant and bar located in the Flipside Point shopping center of Huntington Beach. It offers an authentic Greek island tavern atmosphere – in the owner’s words, “Local Greek Dining with homemade recipes, imported dishes originally from Mykonos , with an ambiance that will make you feel right in Greece” . The space is intimate and warmly decorated in blue-and-white Mediterranean style. The family-owned business is led by Panos (the proprietor), who often personally greets diners and shares his passion for Greek cuisine . Guests immediately notice that recipes and many ingredients are brought directly from Greece (even a special Feta from Mykonos), and traditional music plays in the background. Within a short time of opening a few years ago, Ouzo & Feta became a local favorite for its genuine Greek character and hospitality. One reviewer even said the atmosphere made her feel “like I’m in Athens” while enjoying the food . It consistently holds top ratings (around 4.9/5) on travel sites, reflecting the enthusiastic response from both casual diners and members of the local Greek community.
Events and Programming
Password Greeks on Friday and Saturday nights at Ouzo & Feta drives much of the venue’s draw. The restaurant schedules live Greek music every weekend – according to the official site, “Live Greek Musicians [perform] Friday & Saturday starting at 6:30pm” . These performances feature authentic Greek folk and island music (bouzouki, clarinet, lyra and vocalists) and often turn the meal into a lively sing-along or dance party. Special “OPA” nights (named for the traditional Greek toast) encourage diners to applaud and even stand to dance. Aside from the regular weekly shows, Ouzo & Feta hosts occasional themed events: holiday feasts on Greek Independence Day or Easter, and an elaborate New Year’s Eve dinner are examples. No separate show ticket is required – the music comes included with your meal. On busy entertainment nights, the venue distributes seating by reservation, so visitors are advised to book ahead if they want a seat for the music (one guest noted that making a reservation on Friday saved them from waiting, and that the live music was appropriately “lively”) . Since the restaurant also offers full dinner service at these times, families and groups are welcome at the shows as well.
Reservations and Booking
Ouzo & Feta does not sell concert tickets; it operates like a restaurant. You simply pay for food and drinks – there is no cover charge for live music nights. For seating, the establishment takes reservations (via telephone or OpenTable) and also accepts walk-ins. Reservations are strongly recommended on busy nights: for example, a diner reported that because they “made reservations, we were seated right away” on a packed Friday evening . For smaller parties, booking is optional but wise during peak hours. Larger parties (especially 10 or more people) should definitely call ahead: the owners explicitly invite large-party inquiries and even offer group catering . Payment is handled like a normal restaurant (menus are on the tables and are fulfilled by servers), and prices are moderate – most entrees fall in the mid-to-high \$20s, with appetizers and sides typically \$6–15. A Social/Happy Hour discount applies early in the evening (Tuesday–Thursday 5–6pm and Fridays 3–6pm ), which can make drinks and select appetizers more affordable. Major credit cards are accepted and tipping is customary (generally 15–20%).
Seating and Layout
The interior of Ouzo & Feta is open and casually arranged with a mix of table seating and lounge space. According to customer reports, “there’s both outdoor & indoor seating” and “a large bar which is well stocked” . The indoor dining room holds most of the tables in a single open space, with a large bar along one wall where guests can sit or order drinks. On warm days, a patio with shaded tables extends the capacity outdoors. The restaurant seats on the order of several dozen guests comfortably (roughly 60–80 people by visual estimate), making it larger than a corner bistro but much smaller than a concert hall. Because live music is part of the experience, many patrons choose tables near the stage area or the bar for an unobstructed view. However, the venue has no assigned seating – all tables are first-come or reserved in order of arrival. (Diners who want the prime view are advised to book early.) The acoustics are generally very good: on quiet weeknights you can chat easily, but on Friday/Saturday nights the music is energetic and the room grows noticeably louder. Guests who prefer conversation should plan to arrive on an off-peak evening or take an earlier dinner, as later shows can get raucous .
Getting There and Parking
Ouzo & Feta is at 19171 Magnolia Street, Suite 1, Huntington Beach, CA 92646 . It’s in the Flipside Point commercial center, a quick turn east from the Beach Blvd/405 freeway corridor, at Magnolia and Garfield. The storefront is clearly visible from Magnolia Street, adjacent to a Home Depot (the shopping center includes home goods, other restaurants, and a big shared parking lot ). For drivers, parking is very convenient: a large complimentary lot surrounds the plaza (shared with Home Depot and others), so you can park anywhere on the property for free. Rideshare or taxi dropoffs can be done right at the main entrance on Magnolia. Public transit service is limited but available: Orange County bus route 33 runs between Fullerton and Huntington Beach and stops on Magnolia at Garfield (one block from the restaurant) . However, note that the last southbound bus on that line is around 9:05pm, so late-night visitors typically rely on car or ride services.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, guests find a lively but relaxed tavern vibe. The decor features white and blue walls, Greek iconography, and warm hanging lamps reminiscent of Mediterranean tavernas. A full bar lines one side of the room and is stocked with Greek ouzo and wines, along with a selection of beers and cocktails. The service flow is casual: hosts seat you at a table, or direct you to the bar if you’re waiting. Servers are bilingual (English/Greek) and often explain dishes or the meaning of Greek terms. Restrooms are clean and located at the back. (Note: there is no coat check; guests simply hang jackets on chair backs.) Free Wi-Fi is offered for guests, as mentioned in reviews, so you can look up menu details or share photos.
Food is brought table-side in course order. Appetizers (meze) and salads arrive within 5–10 minutes after ordering. Drinks are typically served quickly; bartenders know the Mediterranean-style cocktails well. One older reviewer noted that some heartier entrees – for example a whole grilled fish – take longer to cook, saying “Heads up… it takes about 20 minutes, but it is worth it” . Entrees then arrive hot and in generous portions. In fact, diners frequently remark on the portion sizes: for instance, one party had so much food that “the portion was HUGE. I had three bites and had to box everything, sides included” . The servers will gladly provide extra carry-out boxes for leftovers. During a live performance, the lights may dim and music volume rise; the staff typically coordinate serving times so that meals don’t interrupt the show (and they keep noise from clattering dishes to a minimum). In short, expect efficient, friendly service and a warm ambiance. If you need assistance (from a wheelchair, pram, etc.), the space is mostly flat and staff are described as very helpful – one resource advises calling ahead with any accessibility needs to ensure smooth entry .
Nearby Amenities
Flipside Point Blvd is a veritable mini food-court neighborhood, so you have many dining or entertainment options within a few steps of Ouzo & Feta. Next door is the Saigon District for Vietnamese/Asian fusion, Casa Jimenez for Mexican fare, and Presotea for bubble tea! There’s also Alohana Acai & Coffee for bowls and coffee. Just across the lot is Riip Brewery Pizzeria, which serves craft beers and wood-fired pizza. If you need something quick before or after your dinner, you’ll find a liquor store, a nail salon, and other small shops in the same plaza. Beyond the plaza, Huntington Beach’s beachfront hotels (Hyatt Regency, Paséa, etc.) are roughly a 5-10 minute drive west on PCH. Daytime and early-evening visits are convenient; the area has ample street lighting and footpaths. Late at night, traffic is lighter and bars tend to be closing around 10pm anyway, so taking a taxi or rideshare is advisable if you plan to stay very late.
What Makes This Venue Special
Ouzo & Feta has become beloved for offering more than just food – it provides a cultural experience. The owners and regular staff pride themselves on sharing Greek hospitality. Patrons often interact directly with Panos or other crew, who describe dishes and traditions. Local stigma says the vibe is so authentic that “you can instantly tell how passionate [Panos] is about his restaurant” . The combination of live bouzouki music, naturally sociable service, and Mediterranean décor creates a mini-Greece in Surf City. (A recurring moment of fun is patrons shouting “OPA!” together during a song, as one longtime reviewer remembered feeling like she was dining abroad .) Menu highlights lean on specialties you won’t see at a typical American Greek chain – pine-nut dolmades, flaming Saganaki, grilled branzino with ouzo sauce, or lamb cooked on vine leaves. Many customers emphasize that the cuisine feels homemade; one said the chicken tasted “reminiscent of the chicken I had on the Greek Islands” . The restaurant also actively engages with the local Greek community (for example, supporting neighborhood cultural events or hosting celebratory Greek dancing nights), which adds to its distinctive status. In short, Ouzo & Feta matters because it’s a family-run establishment where the menu, music, and mood all celebrate authentic Greek culture, making each visit feel festive and memorable.
Visitor Tips and Information
If you’re planning a night at Ouzo & Feta, here are some practical tips to make it smoother. First, plan to arrive early or reserve ahead on weekends. The value of a reservation was emphasized by one guest: “We made reservations so we were seated right away” during a busy live-music dinner . If you skip a reservation, be prepared for a short wait time (the waiting area is in the bar section). Second, come hungry or bring friends to share: plates are family-style and portions are very generous . A single entrée can often be too much for one person. Third, if you want a quieter conversation, consider dining on a Tuesday–Thursday evening (arriving around 5pm) or early Sunday service; according to reviews, weekdays have a slower, more relaxed vibe than the loud Friday/Saturday shows . For music fans, though, hitting Friday or Saturday is part of the fun.
In terms of what to bring or do: casual attire is fine – no formal dress code is enforced. If you plan to drink alcoholic beverages, bring a valid ID for anyone 21 or over (the staff will check IDs as required by law; otherwise patrons of any age are welcome). The menu is posted on the website if you want to preview options, but you can also ask servers for recommendations: many are Greek or experienced with Mediterranean cuisine. If the wait is long, you can order a cold appetizer or drink at the bar to pass the time. Use your smartphone to pay or look up menu translations (free Wi-Fi is available). During the show, small pocket cameras or phones are fine for photos (just turn off flash so it doesn’t blind the musicians). Outside food or drink is not allowed, but you are more than welcome to try all the restaurant’s specialties – don’t miss the homemade desserts like baklava for a sweet ending.
Accessibility: The restaurant is physically easy to access (ground-level entrance, wide tables). If you or someone in your party has mobility needs, it’s suggested to call ahead. Staff are accustomed to multi-generational groups and will do their best to accommodate wheelchairs or strollers . One final tip: arrive a bit before showtime to let dinner begin peacefully. Guests on live-music nights often cheer and clap between songs, so if you sit farther from the stage you might avoid the dinner rush. By following these suggestions – reserving early, arriving hungry, and being aware of the lively atmosphere – you can fully enjoy the warm hospitality and festive vibe that make Ouzo & Feta a standout experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cover charge or ticket required for live music nights?
No. Ouzo & Feta is primarily a restaurant, so there’s no separate cover charge or ticket fee. You simply pay for your food and drinks. The live Greek music on weekends is included as part of the dining experience (as one guest noted, showing up with a dinner reservation was enough to enjoy the entertainment) .
How much do meals and drinks cost at Ouzo & Feta?
Ouzo & Feta’s pricing is moderate. Most dinner entrees are generally in the high teens or \$20s, with some larger mains up to the upper \$20s. Appetizers and sides typically range from about \$6 to \$15. Beer and wine are similarly priced to other restaurants -- expect roughly \$6–12 for beers or glasses of wine, and \$8–12 for cocktails. (A listing on OpenTable suggests dinner checks go “up to $30” per person.) Keep in mind that portions are generous, so you get good value for the price.
Does Ouzo & Feta offer any happy hour or specials?
Yes. The restaurant advertises a Social Hour (its happy hour) on weekdays. According to the official info, Social Hour runs Tuesday–Thursday from 5:00–6:00pm and on Fridays from 3:00–6:00pm . During this time you can get discounted prices on select appetizers, drinks, and cocktails. Additionally, they occasionally run seasonal promotions or a prix fixe menu for major holidays (check the website or call ahead during festive periods).
How can I make a reservation or book a table?
You can reserve a table by calling the restaurant directly at their local number or by using OpenTable. It’s a good idea to reserve online or by phone, especially for Friday or Saturday evenings. If you arrive as a walk-in without a reservation, you may be seated immediately if space allows or placed on a short waitlist. Many reviewers emphasize that having a reservation helped them get seated right away during busy music nights .
What is the exact address and location of Ouzo & Feta?
The address is shown on the restaurant’s contact info: 19171 Magnolia Street, Suite 1, Huntington Beach, CA 92646 . It’s in the Flipside Point shopping center, just east of Beach Blvd, at the corner of Magnolia and Garfield.
Is there parking available, and is it free?
Yes. There is a large parking lot in front of and around Flipside Point, which Ouzo & Feta shares with Home Depot and the other shops. Parking is free of charge – just park in any open space in the center. The restaurant specifically benefits from the center’s lot (as one listing notes, 80% of Home Depot’s parking foot traffic can pass by these stores) . No valet or fee is required.
How can I reach Ouzo & Feta by public transportation?
Public transit options are limited but available. The nearest bus stop is served by OCTA bus route 33, which runs along Magnolia. The Magnolia & Garfield stop is about a two-minute walk from the restaurant. (Be aware the last southbound bus on line 33 departs around 9:05pm .) There’s no direct train station; most visitors use a car, taxi, or ride-share for convenience.
What is the seating arrangement? Are seats reserved?
Seating at Ouzo & Feta is general admission (like a typical restaurant). When you arrive, a host will show you to an available table or bar seat. There are tables of various sizes, and the restaurant may rearrange them for large groups. If you have a reservation, the staff will hold your table until your party arrives. Otherwise, seats are open until claimed. Arriving early (or with a reservation) is the best way to get your preferred table, since there is no assigned seating chart.
Where should I sit for the best view of the live music?
Most of the seating area has a good view of the band. For the closest experience, ask to be seated near the stage or the main performance area (often near the bar). Even tables farther back can still hear and enjoy the music, thanks to the venue’s open layout. Keep in mind that weekend nights can get very festive, so proximity also means being in the center of the party. If you prefer listening more than dancing, a mid-room table can still deliver great sound without being in the direct dance space.
Are children allowed at Ouzo & Feta?
Yes. Ouzo & Feta welcomes guests of all ages. It’s commonly described as family-friendly (OpenTable notes that families, including older parents and children, dine there) . High chairs are available for little ones. Just be aware that on Friday/Saturday nights the music can be quite loud, so you might want to bring child-friendly headphones or plan for a later dinner if kids are sensitive to noise.
Is there a dress code?
The dress code is casual. Patrons generally wear neat, comfortable evening or casual attire. Since the vibe is relaxed, no one will turn you away for wearing jeans or a T-shirt. On themed music nights, some regulars like to dress up in festive Greek-style outfits, but that’s purely optional. In short, come as you are (no formal wear needed), and feel free to wear something a bit dressier if you want to match the celebratory atmosphere.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the restaurant. All food and drink must be purchased from Ouzo & Feta. (The exception is baby formula or food for an infant, per health regulations.) Ouzo & Feta’s menu has plenty to try, so plan to enjoy the authentic Greek dishes they offer.
Are pets allowed in the restaurant?
No. Pets are not allowed inside dining areas (except for service animals, which are always welcome as required by law). The restaurant is focused on food service, so pets cannot accompany guests indoors. If you have an outdoor pet, you’ll need to make other arrangements or leave them at home.
Does the menu include vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. While much of the menu is Mediterranean meat and seafood-oriented, Greek cuisine naturally features many vegetarian dishes. You’ll find eggplant moussaka, spanakopita, Greek salads, dolmades (grape leaves stuffed with rice/herbs) and a trio of dips (hummus, taramosalata, etc.). Ask the staff — they can often adapt dishes or suggest plant-based options. Strict vegans have fewer choices but can usually have salads, grilled veggies, or dips without dairy. Overall, vegetarians should still find several satisfying choices.
What kinds of drinks are available?
Ouzo & Feta has a full bar. They serve Greek staples like Ouzo (an anise-flavored aperitif) and Retsina (Greek white wine), as well as local and imported beers. Cocktails are also available, including some house specials that emphasize Greek flavors (e.g. drinks with ouzo or ouzo-based mixers). The wine list and beer selection rotate, but you can expect at least a few Greek reds and whites alongside standard California wines, plus draft beers.
Does Ouzo & Feta offer Wi-Fi for customers?
Yes. The restaurant provides free Wi-Fi for dining guests. If you need the network, just ask your server for the password. It’s convenient for looking up Greek terms (or photos to Instagram) while you wait for your meal.
Can I book the restaurant for a private party or get catering?
Yes. Ouzo & Feta advertises that it hosts private events and offers catering for large parties . To arrange a rehearsal dinner, corporate lunch, wedding catering, or any group menu, you should call their number (714-951-9216) to discuss details and menu options. They are experienced with special events and will work with you on pricing.
Is smoking allowed inside Ouzo & Feta?
No. California law prohibits smoking inside restaurants. The indoor dining area is 100% smoke-free. If the patio has any smoking section, it would be clearly marked; however most guests choose to enjoy the fresh air outside. In general, plan on it being smoke-free indoors and either smoke in the far corner of the patio (if allowed) or step away from tables if you must.
