Eating can be a great adventure. Part of that adventure is finding unique, out of the way places to dine. One of those places is The Greek Pita Place in Salisbury, MD. Driving along business Rt. 13, passing the Goodwill and stopping across from the Giant, it may be hard to believe that you can find some of the best Greek food in our area in an unsuspecting strip mall.
Tucked away in the back of a parking lot, The Greek Pita Place is a small restaurant with a carry out counter and a few tables for eating-in that are perfect for either lunch or dinner. It would not be considered a fine dining restaurant but has a different kind of appeal all of its own.
When you enter, you are greeted by the owner- a charming Greek man. He does his best to make every customer feel incredibly welcome. The restaurant is family owned and operated. A huge plus but sometimes translates into a longer wait on busy days. Call ahead if you are in a hurry.
The menu includes subs, fresh salads, and dinner sized entrees with all of the hard-to-pronounce classics like spanakopita, souvlaki, and moussaka. I admittedly used the handy definition key that they provide on the menu for some of them. If you want to stay in your comfort zone, they have cheese steaks as well. I am told that these are also very tasty. If you order one of them, at least try the orzo pasta salad. You are in a Greek restaurant after all.
I always order the falafel pita with everything. I am warning you that this is not an “eat and run” food. You can take it to go but be seated while consuming- things can get messy. Save room for dessert. The baklava is deliciously sticky and flaky.
Patronizing ethnic restaurants is a great way to find delicious, authentic, and usually well priced cuisine. The Greek Pita Place is not particularly cheap, but you get what you pay for. They use huge portions of fresh ingredients, made to order. Supporting local businesses helps grow and support our local economy. Although the selection may be small in our area, we have some options and they are continuing to grow. Continuing to frequent these establishments will send future business owners the message that ethnically diverse cuisine is supported (even demanded) in our community.
In addition, eating ethnic cuisine can add great variety to your diet. Every culture has different spices, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that they utilize to create uniquely mouth-watering dishes. These cuisines usually have many more vegetarian options than traditional American restaurants. Meat-free meals can also be less expensive; another plus.
Baklava and falafel are not typically on my list of ‘health foods’, but the Mediterranean diet in general is traditionally very healthy. It is typically high in good fats, fruits, and vegetables. Good fats are those that are heart healthy; high in monounsaturated fats, like oleic acid. Olive oil used generously in Greek cooking is a great example. This diet is also high in legumes and whole grains. Although studies have linked the Mediterranean diet to many different health benefits, there is strong evidence to suggest the link to heart health.
Finding an eating adventure can start in your own backyard. Expand your palette; add variety to your diet, and possibly save a few dollars with ethnic cuisine. A friendly atmosphere and fresh, authentic options make The Greek Pita Place in Salisbury a great place to start. Call ahead for carryout or make extra time for dining in, just start your adventure and support locally owned restaurants.
To read about Amanda's adventures in local restaurants, check out her column by following the links below:
