Where have I Been

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On Nov. 1, Syrtaki Greek Island Restaurant & Pub celebrated their 23^rd anniversary; which leads me to ask myself, "Where have I been?!"

Syrtaki's is a mediterranean oasis.  It's whitewashed walls and ocean blue trim. It's the friendly camaraderie of a Greek Taverna. It's the subtle aura of mysterious ancient wisdoms. And it's wrapped up and presented in wonderful Greek fashion ... feasting, laughing, dancing, and living every moment to the fullest.

Nicole, our server, was a fabulous guide to cuisine on the island. We left our meal in her capable hands, and didn't regret it for a moment. She started us off with Sahanaki "Opa", a flamboyant fried Kefalotiri cheese she flambéed at our table. It was exquisite, and did its intended job of revving our taste buds for the feast to come.

The next delight was a plate of perfectly warmed pita bread served with three delicious dips ... Satziki; a combination of pressed yogurt, cucumbers, garlic and dill ... Hommus; a traditional chick pea spread pureed with ground sesame, olive oil and garlic ... and Tarama; a superb blend of red caviar, olive oil and bread pate.

Then came the Greek Salad, which has long been one of my favorites. In fact, I was even starting to think my homemade version was ... well ... pretty good.  That was before I tasted Syrtaki's. Once again I'm faced with the realization that a cook I'm not! The way they combine tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, green peppers, feta cheese and Kalamata olives is truly exceptional.

I also discovered a new favorite wine. "Boutari Red" is a delicious dry blend of Greek varietals. It's full and rich and glows like a ruby in the candlelight. Nicole also brought us some Retsina ... the "Wine of the Greek Gods". It's white wine stored in barrels sealed with pine tar, and has an aroma reminiscent of the great outdoors. It's an acquired taste. I acquired it real fast.

Fried cheese, pita bread, Greek salad ... just when we're starting to entertain the thought that if this were an ordinary day we might be getting full, a platter fit for a Greek God (or Goddess or a couple of Godlettes, which we are) arrives. Mmmm ... the aromas! Suddenly we're not so full anymore! Where to start? The Lamb Souvlaki "is so good I can't believe it's not beef!" Terri exclaims. Spanakopita, rice, roast potatoes, and vegetables all complement the Moussaka, roast chicken, and the most incredibly mouthwatering ribs I've ever had the pleasure to nibble on. If someone had offered me $1,000 to stop eating, it's debatable whether I could have.

All I can say is "thank heaven for stretch pants!" We gave it a valiant effort, but there was still food on the platter when Nicole carried it away. She replaced it with demitasse cups of exotic Greek coffee served strong and sweet, which goes exceptionally well with a slice of sweet, sun warmed (in my mind, anyway) Baclava or taste-tempting Floyieres. We had both. At least, we had some of both.

Syrtaki's Greek Island Restaurant & Pub is indeed an oasis in our fair city. Take the advice of Zorba, my favorite Greek, "A man (and woman) needs a little madness, or he can never cut the rope and be free." Free yourself. Go to Syrtaki's. Cut the rope and feast yourself silly. Give my regards to Steve and Maria, and when you get there, tell them Billy sent you!

Syrtaki Greek Island Restaurant

10515 - 111 Avenue

Mon - Fri 11am - 2pm

Saturday 5 - 11pm

Fri & Sat Belly Dancers at 8pm