Kamari - Greek Taverna Kafe

Address: 82 The Grand Pde, Brighton-le-Sands 2216 Phone: (02) 9556 2533

Located right in the heart of The Grand Parade, this authentic Greek taverna serves traditional food at fantastic prices. With it's whitewashed walls and simple wooden tables and chairs, it smacks of authenticity. Yet with modern comforts such as mood-inspiring candles and comfy coushins.

Of special recommendation are the mezedes - the Greek version of the Spanish tapas - small servings of extremely filling and rich food, all beautifully laid out. Although classed as entrees, mezedes are filling enough to be had as a main if enough are combined. For example, if 6 people all get one variety of mezedes and shares around, everyone gets a large variety of food and will be stuffed afterwards.

Special note go to:

• The dip platter - with grilled eggplant, taramasalada (salmon), tzatziki (garlic and cucumber mayonnaise) and aoli (chives, cucumber and yoghurt) dips, served with flat bread.
• Souvlaki - skewers of meat (think kebab) but spiced and served with tatziki
• Manitaria yemisto - Large mushrooms filled with cheese and served with a tomato relish

• Haloumi - Goats milk cheese, compressed to remove the curd and infused with mint and lemon juice, and so so firm as to not melt when pan fried - resulting in a tangy surprise that melts your tastebuds when cut in to tiny pieces and chewed slowly

A serving of all of these, for 6 people, and dessert and two drinks each came to AUD$230. Good value and a great night out.