Tucson is home to many amazing restaurants, so much so, it was the first American city to be given the Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)award in the field of Gastronomy. Only 116 cities worldwide have been given this award. So in keeping with my theme that Tucson is more than amazing Mexican food, let me introduce you to Opa’s Grill on 4th Avenue. First the location is right in the heart of the University Of Arizona’s college scene. It’s vibrant and full of life with lots of fun shops, restaurants and bars. Chef’s Qais Papoutsis and Nawid Esar are brothers and they have brought traditional Greek cuisine to Tucson. There are a couple other places with Opa in their name so be sure to search for Opa’s Grill or you might end up at Old Pueblo Anesthesia !
One of the things I love about Greek cuisine is that its so easy and delicious to eat a healthy meal in most Greek restaurants. What separates Opa’s Grill is their attention to detail and quality of food. They make all of their sauces and deserts and they really know how to cook lamb and fish to perfection. The produce and cheeses are delicious and go well with the other foods in accompaniment. If you’ve ever made hummus at home you’ll notice a big difference from hummus bought at a store (even if you use canned Garbanzo beans). Greek food lends itself to freshness and it’s also fun. Who doesn’t like to see a plate of cheese soaked in brandy lit on fire while you yell, Opa?
On the night I was there it was to celebrate my nieces graduation from the U of A. So, lucky for us almost everyone ordered something different. Greek cuisine is a great choice when you’re going out with a large group of varied tastes. Both vegetarians, vegans and non-vegetarians can easily find an array of foods to suit their needs. We started the celebration with their famous Flaming Saganaki, Greek Kasseri cheese with brandy and lemon, that is then set on fire to meld all the flavors. It’s so good I could have eaten that as my main meal and been happy! We also ordered the Calamari, which was cooked to perfection, not chewy or greasy and to some people’s delight didn’t contain any tentacles.( I tend to like those). The Sea Bass was a huge hit as was they Greek Salad with a combo of meats. That’s what I ordered with the lamb and chicken and beef gyro. I’m going out on a limb to say, it was some of the best lamb I have eaten in years. The accompanying tzatziki sauce was also excellent. Everyone from the Gyro sandwich to the vegetarian platter were very happy with their meals.
Opa’s Grill has an excellent light and happy atmosphere that adds to the dining experience. There’s something to be said, for enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family in a welcoming environment. You leave feeling full in both body and spirit. If you have a large group call ahead and they will accommodate your group as well as any restaurant I’ve been to. Opa’s Grill also does catering, so that’s something to think about if you’re having a party and don’t want to deal with the food. If you’re looking for a place to go for good healthy food with a nice atmosphere, then I highly recommend Opa’s Grill on 4th Avenue in Tucson, AZ.
- To show you how easy it is to make hummus here is my favorite recipe:
- 3 Cups chickpeas aka garbanzo beans.( canned is ok) Cooked fresh is better but takes time.
- 1-2 cloves of garlic minced or ran through a garlic press
- 1/3 Cup of tahini- find it in the international food section of most supermarkets
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon. You can use store bought lemon juice, but it’s NOT the same.
- Kosher or sea salt to taste
- Olive oil. Add if the mixture is to thick while blending and add some more on top as a garnish.
- Toss the chickpeas, garlic, tahini and lemon juice into a blender or food processor and blend for about 4-5 minutes to really incorporate the flavors. If the mixture looks too thick drizzle a little olive oil into the mix and blend some more.
- As a garnish you can add, chopped olives or bell peppers or spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper.
- It’s so easy to make and perfect for a summer meal. Eat it with warm pita bread and you’ll put a smile on a lot of faces!
I hope you’ll search out a Greek restaurant in your area and give it a try. In Rockland there are a few that come to mind , “Kavos Grill” in Nyack, “Greek Village” in Northvale, Nj. Tucson also has “Opa’s Best” but I have never eaten there but I have eaten at “It’s Greek to Me” in Oro Valley and it was also good. Enjoy your food and go exploring you’ll be surprised with what you might find, until next time Boone Appétit!
