Apr 8: Greek Waves

A little bit of Greece has arrived on Las Olas. Making some Greek waves, if you will. (Fort Lauderdale's main shopping street, Las Olas, is Spanish for "the waves," of course.) After experiencing the new spot for myself this week, I can understand why people are talking. Trata Greek Taverna is a wonderful addition to the roster of ethnic restaurants along Las Olas, which includes Asian and Italian among the options. I went to Trata for lunch with a good friend and colleague, a buddy with whom I've actually traveled to Greece on business. He's a seasoned world traveler with impeccable taste and would offer a reliable second opinion on Trata's food and service. Well, we agreed on a verdict after our relaxed meal. Excellent food, excellent service.  

This is a charming place, capturing some of the feeling of a real Greek taverna - though a decidedly upscale one. Most of the tavernas I've experienced in Greece tend toward the simple and functional. Trata has a more polished pizzazz, with a lovely bar that feels just right for a downtown Fort Lauderdale restaurant.

Our waiter was first-rate, attentive without being overbearing, friendly without being too familiar. Refills on our iced tea and Trata's delicious fresh bread came promptly, as did our check after we'd asked for it. The food was prepared with the kind of care you find on Santorini or Paros. Or Athens. My benchmark for good Greek food is the classic country salad and that's what I ordered for my lunch. No lettuce. Just peppers and cukes, tomatoes, Greek olives and feta, sprinkled with spices and doused in extra virgin olive oil. Mine was the real deal, with some tasty tomatoes despite the recent shortages. My friend ordered a chicken kebab, which came with a large mound of freshly made French fries. A sometimes finicky eater, he polished off every bite. The next time I go, I'm eager to try their saganaki, the flaming sheep's cheese that's another of my personal faves. The menu is extensive and moderately priced, especially for Las Olas. Trata has everything from red snapper to lamb chops and a choice of about 20 Greek wines, both white and red. Make a whole meal of appetizers if you want or pick from among the entrees. Trata Greek Taverna is at 1103 E. Las Olas, open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day - 954-712-8933. I suggest sitting at one of the outside tables, Greek style, where you can take in the Las Olas ambience. The view may be different than what you'd find in Athens, but the restaurant is very much the same.