The only interesting dining option within a reasonable walking distance of the RV park is Ella Greek and Mediterranean Grill.  I decided to check it out today in the hope of discovering a little gem I could treat myself to once a week or so. I did!

The restaurant is tiny; more of a take out counter, but there are a few tables. The menu is Greek, but the cook is Syrian, so there’s a bit of fusion going on with the menu. I had the falafel sandwich which came with the thin pita the Lebanese (and Syrians) use as well as tahini, but which had feta, tzakiki, and cucumber, which the Greeks add. I’m also curious about the roasted red peppers I was convinced to try. They might be a Syrian thing; the Lebanese add marinated turnips. No matter where they come from, YUM!

The cook was super busy so we didn’t get a chance to chat long, but she said that she tried to make her falafel the way the Syrians do, which is the way I like them, lots of parsley, mint, garlic, and cumin. But the Osoyoos palate doesn’t support that. So, she makes them pretty plain, with sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavour. They’re tasty, but ho hum. At least, they are fresh; it was awesome to see her scooping out falafel balls, shaping them, and dropping them in the fryer.

The falafel sandwich wound up being huge; I had a hard time finishing it! At just under $7, it was reasonably priced for this part of Canada. The lack of zing made the sandwich one that soothed my falafel itch, but did not assuage it, so I don’t think I’ll be having it again even though it was excellent, with a great mix of flavours and textures. But I will definitely go back to try the dolmads, calamari, chicken souvlaki, salads and other wonderful treats on the menu!