From beloved chef/owner Tomer Blechman of the popular Mediterranean restaurant Miss Ada in Fort Greene and its sister concept Nili in Carroll Gardens, Theodora has claimed a stake in Fort Greene as the more ambitious (and more expensive) progression of Miss Ada.
In a nutshell Theodora evolves the Mediterranean flavors chef Tomer is known for, focusing deeply on seasonal produce and dry-aged seafood with an emphasis on wood-fired dishes, but in the grand scheme of things the restaurant is so much more than that.
As for the restaurant itself, Theodora seats about 80 between the bar, the main dining room, and a small counter. Designed by Brooklyn-based interior design studio Home Studios, the neutral-toned space is inviting, airy, and simply stunning with its custom light fixtures and unique architectural touches such as a dreamy cutout in the wall large enough to fit two diners.
To eat, diners can choose from raw seafood, cooked seafood, bread, vegetables, and larger dishes–almost all of which involve fish–with a strong emphasis on open-fire cooking.
Dishes include Wood Fired Beets, Striped Bass Ceviche, Sourdough and Pita, Chicory Salad, Swordfish Belly Skewer, and Whole Butterflied Trout, among others.
Alongside the food is a thoughtful wine program which emphasizes natural wines from smaller, up-and-coming winemakers from around the world.
Beyond the wine there’s also a selection of cocktails whose names are derived from folklore, legendary creatures, and ancient gods associated with the ingredients.
Highlights include Aristaeus, made with tequila, feta, honey chamomile, and lemon, Aisha Quandisha, made with gin, harissa, strawberry, and egg white, and Cynara, a martini with vodka, artichoke, and sundried cherry tomato.
Draft cocktails such as Pomona with Aperol, amba, and mango brandy, and La Cigua with tequila, makrut lime, and serrano pepper are also available.
Theodora has been in the works for a year and a half, though according to Eater Blechman never expected to open it in Fort Greene, rather he thought he would have done it in Manhattan.
Blechman notes, however, that “the neighborhood has changed since he opened Miss Ada,” and now Theodora is “another restaurant for the neighborhood.”
The restaurant is located at 7 Greene Avenue near Fulton Street. They’re open Tuesday to Sunday, 5 pm to 10:30 pm.
You can learn more on their website and make reservations here.