Kuzina, a hidden gem out in the open.

Holy!  Has it really been a year since I wrote my last entry?
Trust me, it isn't because I haven't eaten anywhere fantastic.  T and I have been to some pretty fantastic places in Calgary, Phoenix, Anaheim, and Ireland. But it wasn't until last night, that I put my foot down and decided I am going to get back on it.


Delve into the wisdom of the Greeks, and be inspired by it. 


Kuzina A Greek Inspired Kitchen
1137 17th Ave SW Calgary
Reservations accepted but not required
Family friendly
http://www.kuzina.ws/Kuzina/Welcome.html
(403) 245-0060

A very dear friend of mine M, insisted that we do dinner just the two of us, she also suggested greek as she is a few short weeks of jetting off to the amazing country.  I must admit I am a bit jealous, as Greece is still on my top 10 of places I want to go but haven't yet and I have already fallen in love with the cuisine.

We decided on Kuzina, on 17th Ave SW in Calgary.  They are fairly new, and admittedly since I have noticed the location, I kept thinking I totally have to go there.  So finally we went!

Parking was a breeze, at 6:10ish there was lots to choose from and a quick walk.  Coming out after dinner there wasn't much left unless you wanted to walk 5 mins or more.

Walking in, I was worried.  Friday night, 6:15PM and only one other table had patrons.  This can't be a good sign.....however;

As soon as I sat we had water, and wine list at the table.  The wine list was a great selection of wines (red & white), we both selected an Italian Pinot Grigio because I prefer white with my greek food UNLESS I am having a lamb dish.

The menu is extensive, so lots of choices for vegetarians, meat eater or like me pretty much anything. They also have a very large portion of the menu in Gluten Free options.

I really like going for dinner with my friends, they love to share!  Which is awesome, especially when writing a flog, cause its nice to try a variety. So we started with a Trio of 'Dips' and fresh in house made Pita.  The Pita was warm, crispy in a really good way.  The dips we chose were; Tyrokafteri (feta, yogurt and roasted red pepper) Melizanosalata (Aubergine, garlic) and the tried and true Tzatziki. All of them were really tasty but my fave was the Tyrokafteri.

 The next thing we ordered was Saganaki, A cheese that is placed in a hot skillet and then a shot of Metaxa is added then lit on fire!  There is something so comforting about this dish, salty warm cheese with that sweet drizzle of citrus they put on after.  Who doesn't love cheese and flames!!!

We also ordered a plate Lukaniko, a house made pork sausage with fresh greek spices.  It was OK, a bit salty for my palate (I am spoiled with a dad who makes the best sausage on the planet), I found myself using the left over dip to cut the salt. I am not sure I would do two salty dishes like that again together.

After a quick discussion with M, we opted for sharing a main dish.  At this point I think we could have thrown in the towel.  SO FULL! But there is one greek dish that I love to try every time.  Moussaka is one of those dishes that every one with a greek grandparent, or even parent has their special recipe.  I find that each one is different.  Ours came piping hot, and beautiful with a side of greek salad.  I say this with passion while waving my hands; This was the best Moussaka I have ever had!  Cooked perfect, the eggplant wasn't soggy, the potatoes cut to just the right thickness and of course CHEESE!!

This was altogether an amazing meal, the service was amazing, always being tended to without being disruptive.

Would you believe the two of us ate and had a 9oz glass of wine each for under $90?
You MUST try this place soon!  I figure the rest of the city will discover this gem soon enough and you won't be able to just walk in.






Rating Scale:
I'm not a huge fan of scales, especially the one you step on after a night out of eating and drinking.
So I would like to do my When, Who and Why.

Overal of Kuzina
When to eat here: Last min dinner plan, birthday parties, family events, quite romantic night out, even an office gathering.  A great place to start a night out downtown.
Who to take: This place can accommodate small to large groups, so bring just your lover or your entire family. This would also be great for a girls night or just a catch up session.
Why go here: The selection is fantastic, the staff is super, and the price won't break the bank.