The PhatScene: Kostas!

This month’s installment of the "phatscene" leaves me lamenting just what it is like when the BEST gets BETTER!

It was a trip back to the old neighborhood for me as I walked through the Greco-Roman façade that fronts the BEST Greek restaurant in Western New York…KOSTAS at 1561 Hertel at Parkside. Maybe I have already tipped my hand as to what I think of the joint, but as I walked through those doors and was met by the friendly smiles of co-owners Kosta and Alex how couldn’t I be reminded of the time 20 plus years ago when I first became familiar with the warm environment and hospitality that is a KOSTAS trademark.

I was quickly joined by Marian and we were offered our choice of booth or table … ah yes it was like coming home, yet this home had been remodeled and improved! As we were ushered to our table, it was actually like stepping into another culture. Their recent ambitious and extensive makeover has transformed the interior atmosphere from diner to a pleasing, relaxing, dining room, with beautiful wall murals that put you in the mood of the "old country" with homemade delights served as they would be in the "old country" as well!

Our culinary cruise started with our choice of wine and a couple sampler platters of octopus and calamari. I chose a white Merlot a bit on the sweeter side and Marian chose a glass of red. Believe it or not KOSTAS has an impressive wine list that highlights selections from Greece, Italy, France and Chili of all places, for those of you that are really into such things. The seafood was served just as you would have it in Greece … fresh, boiled and then blackened (on the grill) and seasoned as only they can at KOSTAS! This is what seafood should taste like - fresh and natural not aged and deep-fried.

Marian made her first observation of the trip as she pointed out the presentation! It truly is outstanding … the colorful plates and platters that the food is served on blend so harmoniously into the inviting décor of the restaurant. I must be honest, a lot of that is lost on me, it’s all about the food in my world and this place was not about to disappoint. Soon we were slurping up some of the most delicious Seafood Chowder that this reviewer has ever had. Big chunks of mussel, fish, clams and calamari all blended into a tantalizing tomato base!

Just as I was soaking up the last of that amazing soup with a piece of grilled pita an appetizer of Pikilia made its way to our table for our consumption and of course, I was only to happy to oblige. That combination plate of Taramosata (mullet fish roe dip mixed with onions, olive oil and lemon juice…my favorite), Melitzanosalata (fresh eggplant dip made with garlic, olive oil and feta cheese) Tzatziki (yogurt dip made with cucumber, garlic & dill) and a side of stuffed grape leaves made the perfect bridge to a wonderfully light and flavorful fish platter. Broiled Cod cooked to flaky perfection and served Plaki-style. The side of Greek potatoes had Marian raving about the entrée. My mouth was full, so raving was out of the question for me! I know what you are thinking … what else is new and you would be right. As we awaited what I had really been looking forward to, our open Chicken Souvlaki … we were served a couple of Cappuccinos from KOSTAS world class Cappuccino/Expresso bar. Marian had hers "au natural’ …. I on the other hand, had mine flavored with caramel and topped with cinnamon. I was transported to the "old country" and visions of rolling hills and olive trees as my mouth watered for that Souvlaki … that tender marinated chicken breast … charcoal-broiled and then cut into juicy bite-size pieces served up in a bed of Greek salad smothered with feta cheese and a Greek olive … a classic and I was not disappointed. No one does it better in the city or anywhere else for that matter. It was served devoured and delightful.

Usually I like to top off a trip to KOSTAS with a devilish dessert, but neither Marian nor I had the room. They carry a delicious assortment of scrumptious desserts that change on a daily basis, though you can always count on home made pies, baklava and rice pudding among others. Along with their Greek Specialties, don’t forget the outstanding breakfast items available on their extensive menu that includes a wonderful selection of omelettes. Catering services are available and the menu can be had on a take out basis as well and be pre-ordered by calling them at (716) 838-5225.

It is without hesitation that Marian and I give our heartiest endorsement of two thumbs up to the outstanding eatery … KOSTAS nestled in the heart of North Buffalo, where it has been for more than twenty years! The phood is phantastic. Find out as we did what it is like when the BEST just keep getting BETTER, and eat as they do in the "old country" eat at KOSTAS! As always thanks for your valued readership and don’t hesitate to contact me with your dining suggestions for future phatscenes at puff@97rock.com … Chow.