Small Bites

Hello Fellow Foodies!

Joni Taitt Manradge here to showcase another restaurant in our community: Niko’s Greek Taverna, 287 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY. I was truly excited about coming here since I have never had authentic Greek food in my life (yes, I am one of those that didn’t even have a gyro….can you imagine?? I work in the city, and haven’t even had a gyro…..but I digress!)

Although it is Hudson Valley Restaurant Week, the restaurant week menu was not available on Saturday (not really an issue b/c all that my husband and I ordered actually edged the fixed price menu by a few dollars at best!).

We were offered indoor seating or outdoor seating (it was gorgeous out on Saturday, however, it was starting to get a little chilly when we went to dine, so we opted for indoor seating). As we sat down, we were greeted by warm pita bread and black olives. Also on the table was olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping (I LOVE THAT!!).  We started off our dining experience with fried calamari and marinara sauce:

The calamari was very tasty. The right amount of seasoning and very lightly breaded. Then we moved on to our main courses.

I had Pastitsio, which is marinated chopped meat, macaroni and a bechamel sauce. It reminds me of a lasagna, but has Greek influences since the bechamel sauce is thick in texture and is actually a layer on the top of the pasta and meat sauce.

This was very creamy and yummy. Had to bring some home, b/c I filled up on the calamari and pita bread! My husband had one of the specials of the night: Hanger Steak:

The Hanger Steak was draped with onions and mushrooms and came with freshly cut and baked potato wedges lightly seasoned with oil, salt and pepper. Broccoli also was showcased in this meal, sauteed in garlic and oil.

Lastly, I HAD to round out the meal with dessert! You can’t go to a Greek restaurant without ending the meal on a sweet note, right? RIGHT! SO, guess what I ordered?

That’s right….BAKLAVA!!! This is the first time I have actually tried Baklava, and let me tell you? Wonderful! Who would have thought that something as simple as phyllo, walnuts, honey and a dash of cinnamon for warmth would be so addicting?? The phyllo crust was so light and crunchy. The walnuts and honey combined to be something better than most premade pastries you would get from a snack machine. I loved the cinnamon. Totally unexpected. Definitely gave this dessert a hint of wow. Can you tell that I liked my dessert?

This is a place focused on family and friend gatherings. If you have lots to talk about with your dining guests, this is the place to be. It is very lively and homey at the same time.

The 411 on Niko’s Greek Taverna.

Photo Caption: Fried Calamari