Greek Archives - EatRoamLive

The Big Fat Vegetarian Greek Dining at Fotia, Singapore: Review

February 21, 2020

Greek Salad. Fotia, Greek restaurant, EatRoamLive

Greek food is one of the most refined and most cherished cuisines in the world. Once you have tasted it, there is no going back and there are eateries in Singapore offering quality Greek food suitable for vegetarians. Fotia on Club Street is one such place, serving the freshest Greek food dished up by skilled chefs. It offers ample variety for vegetarians and also those seeking gluten-free options.

We stopped by for lunch and had a pleasant experience. The Greek restaurant exudes a vibe befitting a cosy mediterranean place. Along with chic indoor seating, they also have alfresco dining option. To make the experience even better, the owner was taking great pains in making sure everything was perfect. He went from table to table to check on every guest, bringing in a warm, personal touch that can enhance any dining experience. The vibrant interiors are welcoming, albeit a bit cramped.

The service was good as was the food. There is an exhaustive selection of Pita – Bread, Veggie Mezze, Salad and Homemade Dips for vegetarians. Do remember to book in advance as the good food pulls in crowds which could mean a long wait or being turned away. The one thing that I didn’t like was the lack of high chairs for kids; given the amount of attention the interiors seem to have got, it is indeed surprising.

Fotia now features on our list of 5 Best Greek Restaurants for Authentic Vegetarian & Vegan Greek Food.

Koulouri Thessalonikis, Greek, Fotia, EatRoamLive

Koulouri Thessalonikis (Image credit: Fotia)

We started our meal with the Koulouri Thessalonikis (Greek bread rings covered with sesame seeds, S$2.90) and the Aegean Eggplant Dip (Smoked eggplant, fresh herbs, roasted red pepper, garlic and olive oil, S$14.80). The bread rings are great for sharing although the dip was a bit pricey for the portion size. Other dips that seemed very tempting were the Tzatziki (S$13.80) and the Tirokafteri (S$14.80), though we could only try one and justify these for another time.

Imam Baldi (Image credit: Fotia)

For mains, we ordered a Traditional Dish, Gemista (Stuffed capsicum with rice & fresh herbs served with baked cheese, S$12.80). It is perfect as a main for one person and is decently priced for the portion size. The Greek Salad (Tomato, cucumber, roasted pepper, olive paste, capers and feta cheese, S$19.80 & S$11.80 for half portion) we ordered is a must try. The tomatoes melt in the mouth and it is a dish packed with flavour. You can also try the Imam Baildi which is a Slow cooked eggplant with tomato sauce and garlic served with crumbled feta cheese and olive oil.

Bougatsa (Image credit: Fotia)

The meal was so promising, we were really looking forward to the dessert. It lived up to all the expectations. There was a fight between the Bougatsa (S$13.80) and the Kunefe (Crispy kataifi pastry filled with sift cheese soaked in syrup, S$16.80). Eventually, the Bougatsa won! It is like a lighter take on Baklava with a creamy semolina custard wrapped in golden brown crispy filo and finished with icing sugar and cinnamon powder.

A wonderful place designed to heighten the amazing food experience, Fotia is a place we definitely look forward to visiting again. And if you’re in the mood for more Greek delciousness, here are 5 Best Restaurants for Vegetarian and Vegan Greek Food in Singapore.

Fotia: 1 Club Street , Singapore 069400. P: +65 9455 1004 | Website

5 Best Greek Restaurants for Vegetarian & Vegan Gastronomes in Singapore

May 24, 2018

[metadata element=”date” ] Updated 25th Feb 2020

When you are looking for food that is light on your tummy yet seduces your taste buds, Greek food is one of the top contenders. Whats more is that Greek Cuisine typically has many vegetarian dishes that are relished the world over. After all, what could compete with a colourful and flavourful Greek Salad, followed by a sinfully rich Baklava? While Singapore can’t really boast of having too many authentic Greek Restaurants on the island, it can definitely boast of some top-notch Greek Restaurants that also serve ample for the plant-based diner.

Here are 5 authentic Greek Restaurants in Singapore, that serve a more-then-decent spread of vegan and vegetarian food that will have you hooked. Starters, mains and desserts, you can have it all at any of these Greek havens! These are listed in random order, but Blu Kouzina and Bakalaki do score higher on the vegan scale as compared to the other ones.

Blu Kouzina

Artichokes fried and topped with balsamic cream, sea salt and EVOO (Image credit: Blu Kouzina)

A very Greek look and feel, coupled with the fabulous decor, make Blu Kouzina an eternal favourite. Located at Dempsey Hill, the restaurant serves plenty for vegetarians and vegans. The Horiatiki (Greek Salad) is exemplary, and the Watermelon Salad (S$16.80) is superb. The Grilled Pita with Tria Fasolia, Melitzanosalata and Hummus are all absolute must tries. The Red Peppers (S$8.80) stuffed with spiced cream cheese and the Artichokes are fantastic dishes too. Saganaki with Figs is unbelievably good, while Imam Baildi, Bougiourdi and Spanakopita are all delicious. The strikingly yummy Gemista – roasted vegetables stuffed with marinated herbed rice – is a great pick for vegans (ask for the feta on the side to be removed) and the gluten-free. With an extensive veg menu, this is a place you could get used to, perhaps too used to. Dining at Blu Kouzina definitely comes with way more hits than misses, no wonder the restaurant has a stellar reputation. Detailed review at – Vegetarian & Vegan Greek Food at Blu Kouzina, Singapore: Dining Review.

Stand Out Dishes: Horiatiki, Grilled Pita with Tria Fasolia, Saganaki with Figs, Gemista, Baklava

Blu Kouzina: Dempsey Hill, 10 Dempsey road (Blk 10), #01-21, 247700 Singapore. P: 68750872

Bakalaki Greek Taverna

Bakalaki Greek Restaurant Singapore Vegetarian & Vegan Review

The Classic Greek Salad at Bakalaki is simply outstanding

Greek comfort food with ample for vegetarians and vegans to dig into, Bakalaki is amazing for its simplicity and authenticity. This greek taverna in Tiong Bahru is a laid-back place that is alive with vibrant food. Bakalki deserves a special mention for having a great range of vegan-friendly dishes, besides the extensive vegetarian selection. Give their Pita and Dips a go – we found the Melitzanosalata and Tzatziki to be exemplary. Bakalaki’s Horiatiki (S$20.90) rates extremely high as well – this is something you’ll go back for. Cheese lovers can try the moreish Halloumi. Briam, which is a simple and colourful dish of grilled vegetables, is vegan, and unbeleivably good. Tomatokeftedes (herbed Tomato patties served with a yogurt based dip), and Gemista (Green Pepper and Tomatoes stuffed with rice and mint, Feta to be omitted) are both great dishes that can be done vegan. And before you leave, you have to try the Baklava and Yiaourti here too. More at Bakalaki, Singapore – A Fabulous Vegan Greek Meal, with a Sprinkle of Vegetarian: Review.

Stand Out Dishes: Horiatiki, Pita with Melitzanosalata and Tzatziki, Briam and Yiaourti

Bakalaki Greek Taverna: 3 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168891. P: +65 6836 3688

Alati Divine Greek Cuisine

Greek Vegetarian Vegan Food & Restaurants in Singapore

(Image credit: Alati’s FB page)

Alati means ‘salt’ in Greek and this eatery packs quite a punch. Located between China Town and CBD, the chic place is reminiscent of Santorini with the white and blue vibe it recreates. Courteous and friendly wait staff, and wonderful and warm customer service set the pace for the food itself. The Pita, paired with Melizanosalata and Fava Dips makes for a brilliant start to the meal, while the wonderfully delightful Classic Greek Salad (S$24), and Dakos (Cretan Barley Rusks assembled with a fresh tomato sauce, feta cream, and capers) keep the delight going. While the Spanakopitta and Dolmadakia didn’t please as much, Imam (Eggplant with an onion-tomato sauce, topped with feta) is fabulous and highly recommended. Finish your meal on a sweet note with the Baklava (S$16) which is super as well. Read our full review – Alati Singapore – A Greek Restaurant Worth its Salt: Vegetarian Dining Review.

Stand Out Dishes: Pita with Melizanosalata and Fava Dips, Imam, Baklava

Alati: 73 Amoy Street, Singapore 069892. P: +65 62216124

Fotia

Imam Baldi (Image credit: Fotia)

Fotia on Club Street serves the freshest Greek food dished up by skilled chefs. With its chic indoor seating, Fotia exudes a vibe befitting a cosy mediterranean place. The vibrant interiors are welcoming, albeit a bit cramped. There is an exhaustive selection of Pita – Bread, Veggie Mezze, Salad and Homemade Dips for vegetarians. The menu isn’t too vegan-friendly but they’ve been known to customise dishes where possible for vegans, especially if the owner is around. Start with Greek Salad and order the Koulouri Thessalonikis (Greek bread rings covered with sesame seeds, S$2.90) on the side. For mains, we like Gemista (stuffed capsicum with rice & fresh herbs served with baked cheese, S$12.80).

Fotia: 1 Club St, Singapore 069400. P: +65 9455 1004 | Website

Mykonos on the Bay

A retreat away from the hustle bustle fo city life, Mykonos on the Bay recreates the Greek vibe quite well. The attentive staff make your dining experience superb. Though they offer limited vegetarian options, some of what they offer is quite good. Try out their Pita with Mykonos Dip Platter (S$26) which has three flavourful dips – Tzatziki, Hummus and Melitzanosalata. While we found the Greek Salad (S$19) to be average, the Bougiourdi (baked feta cheese with onions and capsicum, mildly flavoured with chilli flakes) completely floored us. If you love eggplant, give the Melitzanes Imam (stuffed, baked eggplant with a sweetish onion tomato sauce) a go. The Desserts here are brilliant, be it the simple yet impressive Pagoto Giaourti (Greek yogurt ice-cream flavoured with honey and walnuts) or the classic Baklava, they can easily give desserts everywhere a run for their money. Read more about our vegetarian meal – Vegetarian Greek Food at Mykonos by the Bay: Dining Review.

Stand Out Dishes: Bougiourdi, Pagoto Giaourti, Baklava

Mykonos on the Bay: 31 Ocean Way, #01-10 Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, Singapore 098375. P: +65 6334 3818

Vegetarian Greek Food at Mykonos on the Bay — Serenity meets Sumptuousness: Review

May 17, 2018

What’s not to love about Singapore? But even the best of places can get to you every once in a while and so it is with Singapore. There are those evenings when you simply feel like getting away from it all; away from the buzz of the city, the crowds of the CBD and the sight of sky scrapers and head to a faraway land of serenity and bliss. When taking a flight out is not an option, look around and you will find little gems hidden around Singapore with the perfect blend of tranquility, quietude and energetic vibe paired with some great food. Mykonos on the Bay is one such gem, in Sentosa Cove.

Mykonos on the Bay also ranks in our list of 4 Best Greek Restaurants in Singapore for Vegetarian and Vegan Gastronomes.

The Surroundings and Ambience

As I walk into Mykonos on the Bay, I can’t help but smile; the freshness of the white and blue theme, the wallpaper, the well-crafted ship model on one side, the lovely breeze from the huge fans and the simplicity that transports you to a calm and relaxing seaside like ambience. The staff is very enthusiastic and are pleasantly attentive. So with the mood set for what promises to be a great evening, we start our culinary exploration at Mykonos on the Bay, a wonderful and authentic Greek restaurant in Singapore. Mykonos has limited options for vegetarians, but still enough to make for a good meal. Here are our picks of the top vegetarian dishes here.

1. Mykonos Dip Platter

Pita bread with Mykonos Dips Platter

Generous portions of hand made pita bread are served with 3 dips as part of the Mykonos Dip Platter (S$26.00). The Tzatziki is perfectly flavoured, the yogurt fresh and perfectly chilled. Hummus is usually a safe bet with any Mediterranean order, the hummus at Mykonos on the Bay is perfectly blended for a creamy texture and the flavours of the tahini, olive oil and lime blend in without overwhelming. A notch above the other two was the Melitzanosalata – the sweetness of the tomatoes and the punch of the condiments, blend effortlessly with the eggplant and the end result is delightful. I would have liked it slightly warm but that aside, this was my pick of the platter.

2. Greek Salad

The colourful and refreshing Greek Salad

No meal at any Greek restaurant would be complete without trying out their Greek Salad. The Greek Salad (S$19) at Mykonos on the Bay is colourful and refreshing. Fresh produce is tossed together in a light virgin olive oil dressing and mildly seasoned. This would have appealed more to me had it been more flavourful, but you’ll like this if you like your salads simple and unadulterated.

3. Bougiourdi

The Bougiourdi at Mykonos on the Bay is a divine bowl of sheer indulgence

One bite of the Bougiourdi (S$16) and my heart, mind and tummy surrendered to this bowl of sheer indulgence (The calorie pointer will certainly be off the meter). Soft baked feta cheese with onions and capsicum, mildly flavoured with chilli flakes and baked in a ceramic dish, this dish is a cheese lover’s nirvana. I can say with confidence, the Bougiourdi is a dish that will floor all cheese lovers and whoever tries it will remember it.

4. Melitzanes Imam

Melitzanes Imam – stuffed, baked eggplant with a sweetish onion tomato sauce

Another popular vegetarian Greek dish at Mykonos on the Bay is the Melitzanes Imam. The Iman is a dish of baked eggplant stuffed with a sweetish onion tomato sauce, flavoured generously with cinnamon, garlic and feta cheese. It was a good recommendation and we enjoyed the potpourri of flavours that hit our taste buds with each bite.

DESSERTS

Vegetarian or not, at Mykonos on the Bay, desserts are clearly the highlight of the menu. I decided to taste two of their specialties and both of them struck a chord with my sweet tooth.

5. Pagoto Giaourti

Homemade Greek yogurt ice-cream flavoured with honey and walnuts, served with sponge cake

The best things do indeed come in the most simple packaging. Pagoto Giaourti (S$14.90) – the humble, homemade Greek yogurt ice-cream flavoured with honey and walnuts is served with sponge cake and is a delight in every bite. It had me hooked till the very end. The fact that it is the original, no-frills real deal, with no added flavourings is what made it so endearing to me. The crunch of the walnuts and the sweetness of the honey left my taste buds feeling absolutely satiated.

6. Baklava

The delightful Baklava

The dessert that you must have at every Greek restaurant! Just when I thought I had already tasted the best with Pagoto Giaourti, came along a close competitor. Mykonos on the Bay’s Baklava (S$15.90) is delightful; pastry roll baked to perfection, dipped in honey, stuffed with minced pistachios and walnuts, served with a scoop of home made ice-cream, making it a sinfully indulgent treat.

Know Before you Go

A quick note of caution – the cheese used at Mykonos on the Bay contains animal rennet, so do take note of that before you order dishes containing feta cheese. You can opt for several of the dishes to be made without the feta.

Verdict

More than the food, ‘Mykonos on the Bay’ is an experience. A relaxed Greek restaurant in Singapore, it is a seaside eatery with some good food and a great vibe. The simplicity and sincerity in the restaurant stands out and shines through. Plan to take this trip simply to slip away from your routine; put those phones away and enjoy a nice, undisturbed family meal. And if you need more Greek goodness, here’s where to go for the Best Vegetarian & Vegan Greek Food in Singapore.

Mykonos by the Bay: 31 Ocean Way, #01-10 Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, Singapore 098375. P: +65 6334 3818 | Website

Bakalaki, Singapore – A Fabulous Vegan Greek Meal with a Sprinkle of Vegetarian: Dining Review

May 11, 2018

[metadata element=”date,author” ]

If being a vegan ever felt unfair at a restaurant, head to Bakalaki Greek Taverna, Singapore. Bakalaki’s offering of plant-based dishes will have vegetarians and even vegans jumping up and down in glee! The simple yet delicious authentic Greek food at Bakalaki gives you a harmonious taste of homemade style food paired with restaurant style cooking. Every morsel is comfort food that transports you to your moms’ and grand-moms’ hearth, which is the intent. No wonder then that Bakalaki scores top place in our list of Best Vegetarian & Vegan Greek Food in Singapore.

Located in the heart of Tiong Bahru, Bakalaki Greek Taverna has a lively yet relaxing vibe. The restaurant has alfresco seating on the patio and an indoor dining area that is huge. The interior space is large and bright, the decor is stunning with earthy tones and teal accents thrown in. There are quite a few cool elements – the barrels, the orange lights and a wine wall shaped like the Greek flag.

We went for lunch on a Friday afternoon and the restaurant was abuzz, there was quite a crowd. We were welcomed by the General Manager Mr. George Kokinnis, who suggested some of Bakalaki’s best plant-based dishes for us to try, and gave us a quick brief on every vegetarian, vegan and can-be-done-vegan dish as they arrived. Here’s a review!

Appetisers at Bakalaki

Bread Basket, Pita and Dips

VEGAN: Bread Basket, Pita, Hummus, Melitzanosalata Agioritiki
Can be done VEGAN: Tomatokeftedes
VEGETARIAN: Tyrokafteri, Tzatziki, Halloumi

The appetisers at Bakalaki were the highlight of our meal. Upon being seated, we were served a complementary Bread Basket. I relished the homemade bread dipped in Bakalaki EVOO, which is exemplary.

Start with the perfectly grilled Pita & Dips. While the Hummus and Tyrokafteri (spiced feta spread with Greek yogurt and roasted red peppers) are good, the Melitzanosalata Agioritiki (a spread of smoked eggplants with red peppers, garlic and Bakalaki EVOO) and Tzatziki are flawless. I mostly find Tzatziki to be too creamy and short on flavour, Bakalaki’s Tzatziki, however, was flawless – it tasted creamy yet light and was flavoured just right.

Grilled Halloumi and Tomatokeftedes

Next up, the grilled Halloumi served with a side of fresh pesto sauce is nice and chewy, and pairs well wih the pesto. Also quite good are Tomatokeftedes (S$15.90) – herbed Tomato patties served with a yogurt based dip, that can be easily omitted. I loved the slight tanginess and the hint of semi dried tomato in the patties. I also quite liked the slightly “burnt” taste which didn’t appeal as much to Sudha.

Salads at Bakalaki

The Classic Greek Salad at Bakalaki is simply outstanding

Bakalaki’s classic Greek Salad, Horiatiki (S$20.90) is simply outstanding, you can tell that the produce and ingredients used are all top class. The cherry tomatoes on vine deserve a special mention, these are sourced from Italy or Holland and are the juiciest, tastiest tomatoes ever. This is a Salad you would come back for! Horiatiki can be done vegan upon request, the Feta can be served on the side, or omitted entirely.

Mains at Bakalaki

Briam: Simple, colourful and unbelievably yummy

VEGAN: Briam, Gemista (ask for Feta on the side to be omitted), Gigandes Plaki
VEGETARIAN: Vegetarian Moussaka

Briam was definitely the star dish from the mains. The simple, colourful dish of Grilled Vegetables is unbelievably yummy. It is a potpourri of flavours with no single dominating flavour. Everything about the dish is just perfect – never before have I enjoyed grilled vegetables so much. We were so bowled over by the dish that we asked to speak to the Chef to appreciate it. Chef Spiros Palaiologos mentioned that he marinates the vegetables in EVOO with garlic, dill and oregano and the dish is further flavoured with just a touch of salt and pepper. Most highly recommended!

The Gigandes Plaki (S$17.90), a dish of oven baked giant beans in tomato sauce didn’t fare as well. While it was good, it isn’t something that bowled us over. This dish might probably appeal more to kids.

Gemista: Green Pepper and Tomatoes stuffed with rice and mint

Yes, there is more… Gemista – Green Pepper and Tomatoes stuffed with rice and mint, with roasted potatoes and feta cheese on the sides – is quite good too. The Feta on the side can be omitted upon request to make Gemista vegan, there is no cheese used in the dish itself.

Vegetarian Moussaka at Bakalaki: Layers of eggplant & potato, baked with a béchamel sauce

Vegetarian Moussaka: Layers of eggplant & potato, baked with a béchamel sauce

Ending off the mains was Vegetarian Moussaka. If you’re a fan of eggplant, go for this. I’m not, so this didn’t excite me much but I could appreciate the layers of eggplant and thinly sliced potato, baked with a béchamel sauce. Surprisingly, I quite liked the potato and found it to be different and unexpected.

Desserts at Bakalaki

Bakalaki’s Baklava has crispy layers of filo filled with walnuts spiced with clove and cinnamon

You’d think that after all that food, we wouldn’t have space for dessert and you would be right. However, food as delicious as that at Bakalaki deserves a bit of over-eating. Enter Baklava! Since Sudha is way more appreciative of desserts than I am, I decided to let her do the talking here – “I loved the Baklava. The filo pastry was crispy and syrupy on top, and the next few layers walked the fine line between crisp and soft, with the cinnamon and clove flavoured walnut hidden inside… Oh, so divine! It is a bit on the sweeter side but tastes just perfect once you hit the walnuts and spices.”

Yiaourti at Bakalaki Singapore: Greek yogurt topped with chopped walnuts and honey.

Yiaourti: Greek yogurt topped with chopped walnuts and honey.

While Sudha was in love with the Baklava, the Yiaourti appealed more to me. Yiaourti is Greek yogurt topped with chopped walnuts and honey. The simple sounding dish actually tasted quite good at Bakalaki. It is not overly sweet and I found it to be the perfect way to conclude a flabulous meal!

Note: Bakalaki does not offer any vegan dessert on the menu as such, but we were told that the Loukoumades, which are Greek Doughnuts, can be done vegan. The dish normally contains honey which is optional and can be removed upon request.

Verdict and Top Dishes at Bakalaki

In all, Bakalaki Greek Restaurant in Singapore is a treat for every vegan and vegetarian with a desire to try out delectable Greek food. Head to Bakalaki once and we assure you great food will draw you back umpteen times.

While we enjoyed most of the dishes, there were a few winners that were a notch above the others. If I had to pick favourites, they would be Horiatiki, Pita with Melitzanosalata and Tzatziki, Briam, Yiaourti.

If you’re in the mood for more Greek food, check out 4 Best Greek Restaurants for Vegetarian & Vegan Gastronomes in Singapore.

Bakalaki Greek Taverna: 3 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168891. P: +65 6836 3688 | Website

Alati, Singapore – A Greek Restaurant Worth its Salt: Vegetarian Dining Review

May 3, 2018

Alati Greek Restaurant at Amoy Street Singapore

Vegetarian Friendly Factor –

Amoy street is a little wonder nestled between the tradition realms of China town and stretching its arms into the buzzing CBD areas of Tanjong Pagar and Raffles Place on the other side. Tucked away in this tiny lane is a well-known hawker centre but walk a little further down, and you will find a series of old-style shop-houses that offer various cuisines. Sitting right there, among the row of shop houses is Alati, a Greek restaurant well worth its salt. And yes, the word Alati does mean ‘salt’ in Greek.

The restaurant sets itself apart with the choice of font and colour of the logo, the white façade and the sparkling white floors. One step inside Alati and you are teleported to the white and blue environs of Santorini, right here in Singapore. The interiors are very pleasing and immediately set the mood for what promises to be a great evening.

We were greeted by attentive and friendly staff, who swiftly escorted us to our table. Thumbs up for customer service – the staff were very courteous. They were attentive but not too intimidating with their presence. We managed to enjoy the meal while being attended to quite well, yet enjoying privacy in our little space.

“Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment for the soul and body; it’s truly love.” Alati believes in tailoring its portions to encourage sharing and variety on the table for a more enriching dining experience.

Hence began our culinary exploration into the vegetarian side of Greek cuisine…

A Peak into Vegetarian Greek Starters at Alati, Singapore

Upon being seated, we were served a Bread Basket with a pretty-looking plate of Olive Oil complemented with condiments. This might sound ordinary but the condiments enhanced the bread-and-OO experience, my favourite was the sun-dried tomato paste. A good start that made us look forward to the meal.

Perfectly toasted Pita, with Melizanosalata (Smoked Eggplant) and Fava Dips

We then started our appetisers with Pita bread and dips. The Toasted Pita (S$4) is perfectly done, seasoned with oregano and cut into bite sized pieces. The Melizanosalata (S$16) is a delight – the faultlessly smoked eggplant blended effortlessly with the red peppers and garlic with a surprise element of walnut added in just the right amount for crunch and flavour. The Fava (S$16) is quite good too; smooth and creamy, this bean puree with shallots, carrots and capers was a subtle complement to the exciting Melizanosalata. While the Melizanosalata was clearly the winner for me in the starter segment, my lunch partner Pooja, went back and forth between the two and declared these were some of the best dips she had ever had. Overall, round 1 was a complete hit and enough to add Alati to our list of 4 Best Greek Restaurants for Vegetarians & Vegans, in Singapore.

Spanakopitta – spinach pie with a delectable filling of spinach, dill and feta cheese, served with yogurt sauce

Spanakopitta (S$18), the traditional spinach pie with a delectable filling of spinach, dill and feta* cheese served with yogurt sauce is an impressive peek into traditional Greek starters. Though I loved the crunch in every bite, I would have preferred the external layer to be less oily. *The Feta used at Alati, Singapore contains rennet.

Dolmadakia at Alati Singapore - a unique dish of baldo rice and pine nuts stuffed in grape vine leaves

Dolmadakia – a unique dish of baldo rice and pine nuts stuffed in grape vine leaves

Next up was the Dolmadakia (S$19) – a dish of baldo rice and pine nuts stuffed in grape vine leaves. The Dolmadakia at Alati, is as exotic as it sounds. However, my taste buds did not quite fancy the pine nuts or the vine leaves, and this was the one dish from our meal that didn’t sit too well with me.

Vegetarian Salads and Mains at Alati, Singapore

Classic Greek Salad – Roma tomatoes, Spanish onions, cucumber, capsicum, Kalamata olives, capers and feta cheese in a light virgin oil dressing

It was a no brainer that we chose the Classic Greek Salad to begin our journey through the main course. Clearly the right choice – the freshest of ingredients imported straight from various parts of the world including Roma tomatoes, Spanish onions, cucumber, capsicum, Kalamata olives, capers and feta cheese* in a light virgin oil dressing. Simple, classic and super refreshing, the Classic Greek Salad (S$24) was a star. I frankly haven’t enjoyed a salad more in the recent times. *The feta at Alati contains rennet, so you can opt to have the Greek Salad without it.

Dakos at Alati, Singapore - Cretan Barley Rusks assembled with a fresh tomato sauce, feta cream, and capers

Dakos – Cretan Barley Rusks assembled with a fresh tomato sauce, feta cream, and capers

Dakos (S$24) is a simple yet elegant dish of Cretan Barley Rusks assembled with a fresh tomato sauce, feta* cream and topped with capers. The dish stands out with simple ingredients that come together to create an impressive mélange of flavours that hit you when you bite into it. Only suggestion – eat it as soon as it arrives as it can get a little soggy if you let it rest.

Imam at Alati, Singapore - Eggplant with an onion-tomato sauce, topped with feta

Imam – Eggplant with an onion-tomato sauce, topped with feta

Ending off our mains nicely was Imam, my second close favourite after the Greek Salad. Imam is a dish of eggplant stuffed with a sauce of spanish onions and roma tomatoes, on a bed of the tomato sauce and topped with feta and garlic. The dish oozes delight in every bite. I am not an eggplant person and usually need to be cajoled or threatened to eat a spoon of it, however this dish had me willingly jump in to take another serving. An absolutely must try on the menu.

Dessert at Alati, Singapore

Baklava at Alati, Singapore - The perfect way to end a Greek meal

Baklava – The perfect way to end a Greek meal

We were stuffed beyond our capacities and my tummy was crying for a little break. However, when the dessert arrived, my taste buds dictated and my tummy gleefully dug right in. The Baklava (S$16) is superb – flaky pastry stuffed with pistachios and walnuts, with a sweet scent of cinnamon that filled our senses, ending our meal on a high note.

Verdict of Vegetarian Greek Food at Alati, Singapore

The vegetarian menu at Alati, Singapore isn’t what we would call extensive but Alati’s Vegetarian menu is vast and indulgent enough to give any vegetarian a good meal with enough veg choices.

However, a quick note of caution – the cheese used at Alati contains animal rennet, so do take note of that before you order dishes containing feta cheese.

Alati is a great option to explore on busy weekday evenings or for a casual weekend meal. Step in and let the ambience and food take over and you will definitely have great memories to take back.

Alati: 73 Amoy Street, Singapore 069892. P: +65 62216124

Vegetarian Greek Food at Blu Kouzina, Singapore: Dining Review

April 28, 2018

Authentic Greek Restaurants with great food are not that easy to come by. Blu Kouzina not only ticks all boxes, it does that with accolades. Not only is the food fabulous, the décor and the overall vibe of the place is awesome as well. In fact, between the Greek food and the white & blue Greek décor that reminds you of Santorini, it is easy to forget that you’re in Singapore.

Blu Kouzina was born in 2010, nurtured by Effie and Dennis Tsakiris’ love of sharing a hearty meal with friends. I met Effie 4 years ago and Dennis last week, and I can tell that they share a common passion for the food of their native Greece. It is this passion that reflects in the food at Blu. Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant is now Located at Dempsey Hill.

Before you ask what’s in it for us vegetarians; it turns out, plenty. The restaurant has an extensive range of plant-based dishes. I guarantee that vegetarians will be spoilt for choice, and vegans will be more than happy eating here – Blu Kouzina comes out tops on our list of Best Greek Restaurants for Vegetarians & Vegans, in Singapore.

*For this review, we requested Blu Kouzina for tasting/smaller portions of the dishes (to avoid food wastage), and the restaurant kindly obliged. Please keep in mind that many of the pictures here do not represent actual portion sizes which can be much bigger for most of the dishes.

Vegetarian & Vegan Salads at Blu Kouzina

Watermelon Salad, Cauliflower Salad and Greek Salad at Blu Kouzina

Watermelon Salad, Cauliflower Salad and Greek Salad (smaller portions)

I always start a Greek Meal with a Greek Salad, t’s almost a tradition now! The Horiatiki a.k.a. Greek Salad (S$13.80++ | 22.80++) at Blu Kouzina has been a favourite for years, the quality of ingredients is exemplary. Their Feta is sourced from Greece, free from animal rennet, and the quality speaks volumes for the restaurant. The Cauliflower Salad looks quite impressive on paper, but didn’t please as much as we’d hoped. The cauliflower is sautéed perfectly and dressed with spinach, pine nuts and a tahini dressing, but the dish falls short when it comes to flavour.

The Watermelon Salad (S$16.80++), on the other hand, was an accidental order that turned out to be a star dish. Cool and refreshing, perfect for a hot day! The sweetness of the watermelon complements the savoury feta, and the two combine brilliantly with hints of mint, to deliver what seems to be a match made in heaven. The Watermelon Salad would be a perfect way to start your meal or to end it – I plan to have it for dessert next time.

Pita with Plant-Based Dips at Blu Kouzina

Grilled Pita with (tasting portions of) Tria Fasolia, Melitzanosalata and Hummus

Any Greek Meal would be incomplete without Pita and dips and we tried our fair share at Blu Kouzina. The Pita here is flown in from Greece and is quite good. So are the dips. And, you’re going to love this — there are 6 vegetarian dips on the menu, 4 of those are vegan. While the standard dips like Hummus and Melitzanosalata (smoked eggplant, feta and EVOO) are top-notch, the star dip is Tria Fasolia, simply exceptional. This three-bean dip is made of white beans, chickpeas and black-eyed beans. Spring onions and dill lend it a ‘green’ twist – an appetising green look and a whole bunch of flavour. Highly recommended! (Note: The Tzatziki at Blu Kouzina is made with Yogurt that contains animal rennet so it isn’t vegetarian in the strict sense).

Vegetarian & Vegan Meze at Blu Kouzina

Sweet Red Peppers stuffed with a spiced cream cheese; Mixed Olives

Sweet Red Peppers stuffed with a spiced cream cheese (tasting portion); Mixed Olives

Once again, the menu has several vegetarian and vegan appetizers on offer. While you’re trying to decide what to order, order some olives to munch on. The Olives come in a generous portion of Kalamata, green and stuffed green (interestingly stuffed with orange rind). On the side, have some Red Peppers (S$8.80++) – sweet bell peppers stuffed with spiced cream cheese, then baked and cooled. While I found them to be excellent and left it at that, my lunch partner could not stop raving about them through the meal. For her, this was the favourite dish of the day.

Artichokes, beautiful and delightful

Being a vegetarian and still spoilt for choice almost felt like a license to indulge, and we did. The Artichokes that came next (S$12.80++) are beautifully presented and taste good. These are fried and topped with balsamic cream and sea salt.

Saganaki with a Fig Sauce that is to die for

If you love cheese, the Saganiki & Figs (S$19.80++) is definitely worth a try. The slab of cheese is pan fried to a beautiful golden and topped with a to-die-for fig sauce. The presentation is head turning as the cheese comes sizzling to your table. Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, the savoury taste of the cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of figs. If you force me to find fault with this dish, I’d say that I could do with more of that delicious fig sauce, perhaps a bucket-full next time!

Grilled Eggplant filled with a tomato-onion sauce; Phylo Pastry stuffed with spinach and feta; Red Peppers stuffed with spiced feta (Tasting Portions)

Rounding off the meze was a trio of appetisers. Imam Baildi (1pc at S$10.80++) is an oven grilled eggplant filled with a tomato and onion sauce. The sauce is delicious, the caramelised onions bringing in a hint of sweetness. It comes with a side of feta and hits the right notes. The Spanakopita aka Phylo Pastry is faultless and light as air. Spinach and cheese are undoubtedly a delicious pair. Have them tango inside light and crispy layers of phyllo and you’ve got a winner. The pastry is quite well-balanced, there isn’t any ingredient that overpowers even as each one shines through.

In the hot version of Red Peppers that is Bougiourdi, you get to dig into juicy red peppers oozing gooey, melted marinated spicy feta cheese. Had this dish been a tad less salty there would be nothing standing between us and raving reviews for the dish. But, as it stands, the excess saltiness does tip the scales in favour of the cold Red Peppers instead.

The Vegetarian & Vegan Mains at Blu Kouzina

Gemista – roasted vegetables stuffed with marinated herbed rice (Image credit: Blu Kouzina’s FB page)

There are quite a few vegetarian and vegan mains too on the menu. Since we were nearly stuffed after all the appetizers, we decided to share just the one main dish and what a dish it turned out to be. Gemista (S$25.80++) is a dish of roasted vegetables stuffed with marinated herbed rice and oven baked to perfection. Yet another amazing dish to compete for the top slot, the dish is perfect for vegetarians, vegans* and the Gluten free. It’s hard to play favourites here, but probably my top pick of the meal! *Vegans, ask for Gemista without the side of feta.

Drinks

We started our meal with the EPSA Greek Carbonated Drinks (S$4.80++). They have quite a range of flavours – Pink Lemonade and Organic Lemonade, which are both fruity and refreshing, and Blood Orange which was voted favourite flavour of the day.

To round off our meal we opted for Cappuccino and Herbal Tea (S$6.80++) that came highly recommended, and rightly so. The Herbal Tea is served in style, brought to your table in traditional Greek utensils and poured at the table – entertainment you can sip on.

Verdict & Top Vegetarian Dishes

If you’ve ever wondered why Blu Kouzina at Dempsey has a huge fan following, try their food and you’ll have no problem understanding why. From the food to the décor to the ambience, everything about Blu Kouzina simply delights. I’ve been frequenting this place for the last few years, since they have an extensive vegetarian selection, which is now even bigger as they have recently added several new vegetarian and vegan dishes.

If you find the sheer number of dishes in the above review a bit overwhelming, here are the top 6 I would recommend — Greek Salad, Watermelon Salad, Tria Fasolia (vegan), Spanakopita, Red Peppers, Gemista*. *Gemista would be vegan without the feta on the side.

Know Before You Go

All cheese served at Blu Kouzina is free from Animal Rennet.
The yogurt they use contains animal rennet, so if you’re a strict vegetarian, steer clear of dishes containing yogurt e.g. Tzatziki dip.
The restaurant uses only the best ingredients, and that reflects in the food. The Pita is shipped in all the way from Greece, the French Fries are from Belgium, the Olive Oil is from their own estate in Mesinea, Greece. Most other ingredients are locally sourced.

Blu Kouzina: Dempsey Hill, 10 Dempsey road (Blk 10), #01-21, 247700 Singapore. P: +65 68750872 | Website

Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore: Vegetarian & Vegan Menu with Prices

April 28, 2018

Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Vegetarian, Singapore

The Greek Restaurant has an extensive range of vegetarian dishes, and they’ve recently increased the vegetarian selection, adding several new plant-based dishes to the menu. Some of our top vegetarian and vegan picks here are Greek Salad, Watermelon Salad, Tria Fasolia (vegan), Spanakopita, Red Peppers, Gemista*. *Gemista would be vegan without the feta on the side.

Read here the complete dining review of Vegetarian Greek Food at Blu Kouzina, Singapore. Mentioned below are the vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu, with prices and ingredient info, to the best of our knowledge (correct as of April, 2018).

Vegan Dishes at Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore

[table id=3 /]

Vegetarian Dishes at Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore

[table id=5 /]

Read here the complete dining review of Vegetarian Greek Food at Blu Kouzina, Singapore.

Know Before You Go (Ingredient Info)

All cheese served at Blu Kouzina is free from Animal Rennet.
The yogurt they use contains animal rennet, so if you’re a strict vegetarian, steer clear of dishes containing yogurt e.g. Tzatziki dip.

Blu Kouzina: Dempsey Hill, 10 Dempsey road (Blk 10), #01-21, 247700 Singapore. P: 68750872

Category: Greek

The Big Fat Vegetarian Greek Dining at Fotia, Singapore: Review

5 Best Greek Restaurants for Vegetarian & Vegan Gastronomes in Singapore

Blu Kouzina

Bakalaki Greek Taverna

Alati Divine Greek Cuisine

Fotia

Mykonos on the Bay

Vegetarian Greek Food at Mykonos on the Bay — Serenity meets Sumptuousness: Review

The Surroundings and Ambience

1. Mykonos Dip Platter

2. Greek Salad

3. Bougiourdi

4. Melitzanes Imam

DESSERTS

5. Pagoto Giaourti

6. Baklava

Know Before you Go

Verdict

Bakalaki, Singapore – A Fabulous Vegan Greek Meal with a Sprinkle of Vegetarian: Dining Review

Appetisers at Bakalaki

Salads at Bakalaki

Mains at Bakalaki

Desserts at Bakalaki

Verdict and Top Dishes at Bakalaki

Alati, Singapore – A Greek Restaurant Worth its Salt: Vegetarian Dining Review

A Peak into Vegetarian Greek Starters at Alati, Singapore

Vegetarian Salads and Mains at Alati, Singapore

Dessert at Alati, Singapore

Verdict of Vegetarian Greek Food at Alati, Singapore

Vegetarian Greek Food at Blu Kouzina, Singapore: Dining Review

Vegetarian & Vegan Salads at Blu Kouzina

Pita with Plant-Based Dips at Blu Kouzina

Vegetarian & Vegan Meze at Blu Kouzina

The Vegetarian & Vegan Mains at Blu Kouzina

Drinks

Verdict & Top Vegetarian Dishes

Know Before You Go

Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore: Vegetarian & Vegan Menu with Prices

Vegan Dishes at Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore

Vegetarian Dishes at Blu Kouzina Greek Restaurant, Singapore

Know Before You Go (Ingredient Info)