Wine about it!

When you think of opening up a bottle of wine, do you opt for a fine French Bordeaux or a rich, yet fruity, Italian Chianti or even a Cabernet Sauvignon from one of the most popular non-European vineyard - that of say - Napa Valley in California?

What about Greek wines? You know - they have been doing it LONGER than anyone! Greek wines have been dated to over 6500 years ago. The Greeks were known to worship Dionysus, the god of wine, It has been said Hippocrates used wine for medicinal purposes. Viticulture (the science, production and study of grapes) originated in Greece with domestic cultivation becoming widespread throughout Europe. Greek wines and their varieties were well known and traded throughout the Mediterranean and across the world.

The importance of wine in ancient Greek society can be summed up best by a quote from the Greek historian Thucydides: "the peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learned to cultivate the olive and the vine". I know I feel more at “peace” when I am indulging on a tasty glass of vintage Lantides Aenaon, Merlot from Greece.

Be sure to visit us for Dallas Best Wine Selection at Zizikis or Ziziki’s Taverna to taste any one of our great ports and wines from Greece and other regions in Europe - as well as Dallas Best Greek Cuisine.

Ring in the New Year At Ziziki's, Ziziki's Taverna and The Greek One Arts

Opa! All three of our restaurants will be celebrating and welcoming 2013 with a special dinner menu. Visit our websites for more information.

• Click here to visit ZIZIKI'S special events information and download the New Year's Eve menu.
• Click here to visit ZIZIKI'S TAVERNA's special events information and download the menu for New Year's Eve.
• Click here to visit THE GREEK's special events page and download the New Year's Eve menu.

Advance reservations are recommended - so give us a call today to reserve your spot. Hours, phone numbers and maps are also available on each individual website. We'll have champagne, full bar, and the best food in Dallas!

We'll also be open for our award-winning champagne brunch on New Year's Day.

Either way - ring in the New Year Greek-style with Ziziki's, Ziziki's Taverna and The Greek! OPA!

Ziziki's Holiday News

Giving to others is an amazing way to start the holiday season!  This year, we are celebrating our 11^th year of providing Christmas dinner and toys to the families of Family Gateway’s shelter.  Last weekend we purchased gifts for the 61 children and had a gift wrapping party with some of Ziziki’s staff at our Ziziki’s Preston/Forest location. 

 We are so thrilled to be sharing Christmas dinner with the families at Family Gateway on Sunday, December 16^th, 2012.   If you want to get involved, go to the Family Gateway link below…they need your help!

  Ziziki’s Holiday Hours

Ziziki’s Closed

CLOSED Christmas Eve          Mon         12/24/12              Closed all day (AM+PM)

CLOSED Christmas Day         Tues         12/25/12              Closed all day (AM+PM)

Ziziki’s Open

New Years Eve                         Mon         12/31/12              Open all day (AM+PM)

New Years Day                        Tues         1/1/13                  Open all day (Brunch + PM)

Greek Chic - Food Trends in Athens, Greece

Relative to the rest of Greece, Athens tends to be a somewhat cramped city with many people packed into a relatively small area. In fact, over 40% of the Greek population resides in Athens. The upside of that fact is that many who live there actually hail from another region of Greece who brought their family cooking traditions and recipes with them. This makes for Greek restaurants that offer more eclectic cuisine than you might realize.

Over the years, adaptation has been the name of the game in Athens. European influences swung into style during the 90s but more recently, Greeks have gone back to their roots. At heart, they never quite embraced any food other than that served in the families that raised them. Today, Greek tavernas offer a modern spin on the old-fashioned, smoke-filled venues of the past, paired with creative Greek cooking. Popular cuisine trends heavily emphasize healthy Cretan inspired offerings. Fun fact: Greece’s largest island, Crete claims the country’s highest life expectancy!

The recent financial crisis definitely played its part in this return to traditional eating. Tavernas offer tapas-style appetizers, and the Athenian custom is to order plenty to share around. But Athenians are still open to trying new things! The latest food craze in Athens is frozen Greek-style yogurt. Frozen yogurt bars are springing up like mushrooms. The taste is a bit like ice cream but with more character and flavor.

Here are a few bonus tips if you're planning a trip to Greece any time soon. The Greek capital is easy to navigate by foot or the metro; the upside of being a traveler in a country that lives on tourism is that most locals speak English and they are usually happy to help. When dining, beware of opening and closing times, as Athenians eat late lunches and dinners. Most places open for lunch at 1 p.m., although most locals don’t eat lunch until 2 or 3:00. Dinner time is very late: Athenians usually go out for dinner after 9 p.m. and most restaurants serve food up to 11 p.m. or midnight. And if there’s one last piece of culinary advice for Athens, it’s this: explore the downtown area where the locals eat. You will not be disappointed.

Don't have a trip to Greece planned? Come on down to Zizikis! Our menu is full of traditional Greek cuisine favorites!

Tips for Planning Your Holiday Party

About this time every year many a party gets planned. For some, planning a holiday party is pure joy. For others, it can be seen as nothing but a dreaded chore. It doesn't have to be that way! Today we share some of our best tips for planning your holiday party. Opa!

1. Save the right date...

Your friends, family members or coworkers are busy during the holidays. Choosing to have your party earlier in the season will ensure you get a better turn-out. After all, it's not a party without guests!

Be creative with when you have your event. From Sunday brunch to an evening cocktail party with hors D’oeuvres starting at 8:00 pm, the options are only limited by your imagination.

2. Begin with a theme...

Having a theme helps to guide as you make detail decisions. Plus it helps to keep the look and feel of your party on track. When choosing a theme, consider what type of event you would like. Cocktail, buffet, a formal sit down? The most popular themes tend to include anything with a glamorous touch. Think 1950’s holiday-inspired cocktail party, or a glittery Dr. Zhivago snowscape, or even a festive Greek inspired gathering.

3. You'll need a great caterer...

This is high-season for caterers. They may want your business, but if you wait too long to book one you may going it alone. Or worse, getting stuck with a less than reputable version of what you were really wanting. It’s up to you to choose one that will get the job done professionally. With catering from Ziziki's you can rest assured you will have a fabulous party, with delicious Greek cuisine, amazing service and a memorable time too.

No matter who you choose, be sure to check out reviews, customer ratings, photos and detailed menus before committing.

4. Know your guests...

It's in your best interest to take time to know your guests' possible dietary restrictions, food allergies. And always make sure to offer at least one vegetarian dish. Ask your caterer to place a fabulous looking card listing the ingredients next to each dish so your guests know exactly what they’ll be eating. Guests who have to watch others eating without being able to partake themselves, don't make for happy guests.

5. Don't underestimate the power of an RSVP...

Sending invitations is easy. Getting people to respond takes a little special effort. Make responding easy by using an online invite system like Evite. These sites also send reminders to those guests who are taking longer to answer. Having a guest count is especially important when it comes to the food. You definitely want to make sure you have enough (but not too much) to serve everyone.

6. Employ a memorable welcome to set the mood...

Make your guests feel special from the moment they walk in the door with a signature cocktail designed for the season. If it’s cold outside, greet them with a warm-welcome cocktail full of flavor. Apple, orange, clove and cinnamon are holiday favorites.

7. Let a fun attitude lead the way...

A good attitude will always bring good results! Yes, you want things to be perfect, to have a good time with friends, with great food, and fabulous décor. Have fun planning your party and you'll have fun at your party. Opa!

Ready to talk catering? Give us a call!

Recipe Week: Christopsomo

As we enter the Christmas season, we thought we'd share a recipe for Christopsomo, or 'Christ's Bread.' The preparation of Christopsomo is considered a sacred tradition in many Greek Orthodox homes. The care with which it is made is said to ensure the well-being of the home in the year to come and only the purest and most expensive ingredients are used. The bread is often decorated with pieces of dough formed into representations of the family's life (boats, animals, etc.). We hope you take time to bake and enjoy this delicious bread some time during your holiday season. And make sure you come back next week as we'll be sharing some great tips for entertaining this year. Opa!

Prep Time: 4 hours

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:
8 cups of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of salt
1 1/2 tablespoons of dry yeast
1 cup of warm water (105F, 40C)
1 cup of warm red wine
1/2 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of orange juice
1/4 cup of brandy
grated peel of 2 oranges
1 cup of sugar
1 1/2 cups of raisins
1 1/2 cups of walnuts, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup of pine nuts
1 tablespoon of grated gum mastic or 1 tablespoon of crushed anise seed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Topping
milk
2 whole walnuts in shells
sesame seeds

Preparation:
1. Mix the yeast with 1/2 cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of flour, stir until dissolved and set aside for 10 minutes, until it bubbles.

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift the salt with 2/3 of the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture, the remaining warm water, and the wine. Mix until a soft dough forms, cover with waxed paper and a damp towel, and set aside to rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until doubled in bulk.

3. Punch the dough down and knead for several minutes until any air pockets are gone. Sift in the remaining flour, add the oil, orange juice, brandy, and grated orange peel.

4. In a small bowl, mix the sugar, raisins, walnuts, pine nuts, gum mastic or anise, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until blended, and add to the dough.

5. Knead well until the dough is firm and doesn't stick (about 10 minutes), cover, and allow to rise for 1/2 hour.

6. On a lightly buttered baking pan, shape the bread into two circular loaves, about 8 inches in diameter. Cover with a dry cloth and a damp cloth over that, and place in a warm place to rise again, until doubled in size. If you want to decorate your Christopsomo, pull a fistful of dough from each loaf. Pat the dough back into shape to rise. When risen, use the small pieces of dough to create designs: roll them out into strips and coil around whole walnuts pressed into the top in the shape of a cross (like the photo), or make them into the shapes and place on top of the loaves. Continue with the recipe but in step 7, brush with beaten egg instead of milk to get a brighter glaze.

7. Using a floured knife, score a cross into the top of the loaves, and place one whole, unshelled walnut at the center. Brush the bread with milk and scatter with sesame seeds.

8. Place a pan with at least 1 inch of water in the bottom of the oven and preheat to 450F (230C). Place the bread in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove the pan with the water, reduce heat to 390F (200C) and bake for another 25-30 minutes.

9. Remove from oven, brush lightly with water, and cool on a rack.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of About.com

End of Year Holiday Traditions in Greece

Christmas in Athens at Constitution Square

What? The holidays already? It sure is! In a little more than a week most of us will be enjoying our Thanksgiving feast. Within a few days we'll be putting up our Christmas trees and other holiday decor. As we approach the holiday season we have family and feasting on the mind. We know you're making plans for your Thanksgiving holiday to be followed by the ushering in of the Christmas season. So today, we thought we'd give you a taste of what it's like to celebrate end of year holidays in Greece. To that end, here is a list of popular traditions. A couple will be familiar to you and some, maybe you would like to give a try with your families this year.

1. In Greek homes, Christmas tree are not common having only recently become more popular. Rather, most families display the traditional Greek symbol of Christmas: a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire suspended across the rim; from that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross. Be sure to add a small amount of water to keep the basil alive and fresh.

2. Take the children to see Santa Claus. Yes, you read that right. We Greeks love Saint Nicholas too! You can usually find him outside shopping areas where he hands out treats to children.

3. On Christmas Eve, keep your ears open for neighborhood children singing "kalanda" (Christmas carols). Have a supply of dried figs, walnuts, almonds and coins to offer the carolers who come to your house.

4. Prepare a holiday feast for Christmas Eve. Serve traditional foods and wine with baklava for dessert.

5. Bake loaves of "Christopsomo" (Christ bread), a sweet bread we form into shapes. Many families opt to decorate the loaves with symbols reflecting their family's trade. Serve the bread with dried figs.

6. A family member, usually mother, immerses the basil and cross in holy water once a day and sprinkles drops in every room of the house to keep sprites, or "kallikantzari," away. According to legend, these sprites are slide down the chimney between Christmas and Epiphany on January 6 to play mischievous pranks on the family. The fire is kept burning everyday to prevent entry to these little tricksters.

7. Traditionally, the 12 days of Christmas begin on Christmas day. Remind your children to hang their socks over the fireplace, where small gifts will appear.

Vasilopita

8. On December 31, serve "vasilopita", or Christmas cake, with a florin (gold coin) baked into the cake. To have good luck during the coming year, be the person to find the coin in your cake.

9. Exchange gifts on January 1, which is St. Basil's Day. The herb basil is connected to this saint and day, and is believed to have both healing and protective powers. On this day, any vessel of water is emptied and filled with fresh water, as a renewal celebration.

While enjoying family and friends this holiday season – keep in mind that Ziziki’s also offers holiday catering for your event, or private dining if you prefer to dine with a private corporate party or your family. Opa!

Ten Facts About Greek Pitas

Credit to Wikipedia Commons.

Ask anyone you know to name a Greek food. You'll likely hear 'a pita' as the most popular response. Pitas are loved the world over so today we thought we would share some facts about pitas. Opa!

1. A pita is a round slightly leavened flat bread that is consumed all over the world in many different cultures.
2. The word pita is a Greek term, which means “flat.”
3. Pita is spelled 'pitta' in the UK, 'pide' in Turkey, Romania, and Greece.
4. In addition to being flat, this bread generally has two layers which separate to form an internal pocket. The pocket is created via a steam bubble that develops during baking.
5. Peeta Mellark, one of the main characters in the Hunger Games series, is named for the pita. His parents are the local bakers so it was very fitting to name their son after one of the most popular breads in the world.
6. After the pita is baked and cooled, it is cut in half, the result is two crescent-shaped pockets of bread. This pocket can be used to hold meats, cheeses, cooked vegetables, even salads.
7. Pitas are often torn and used to scoop up sauces or dips, such as hummus, making spoons superfluous.
8. Using one slice of pita bread (two pockets) rather than two slices of regular sliced bread lowers your calorie intake for that sandwich you're contemplating.
9. Pitas were so popular in the middle east because they required no special equipment to bake. Just mold the dough, pat flat with your hands and bake.
10. You can find the best pitas in DFW at THE GREEK in One Arts Plaza. Special thanks to the Dallas Observer for a great review of our newest restaurant.

Greek Fall Celebration - Chestnut Festival of Elos

There's no denying that we Greeks love our festivals so it's no surprise that Greece has a few fall festivals of their own. Family, food and fun...almost the motto of our Greek traditions! The most curious celebrates something American's sing about every Christmas season in the phrase 'chestnuts roasting on an open fire.' In Elos, the chestnut takes a more prominent place among their traditions.

The Chestnut Festival of Elos takes place in Kastanitsa, one of the few remaining traditional Greek settlements that still boasts the sights, sounds and aromas of yesteryear. Every autumn the village dons its finest and prepares to welcome hundreds of visitors from near and far.

The village of Elos is surrounded by chestnut trees, providing picturesque scenery and an annual harvest of big, gorgeous chestnuts. To mark the coming of autumn and the chestnut harvest, local villagers devote special attention to the annual Chestnut Festival. This tradition gives the people of Elos a chance to show off its beloved chestnut and attract a crowd over the weekend. Visitors to the Chestnut Festival can enjoy witnessing and participating in some traditional local entertainment, including drinking, eating, music, dancing and of course indulging in the pleasures, both sweet and sour, produced by roasting the chestnuts.

The chestnut, unlike other nuts, is low in fat and calories, but is rich in starch, which makes it a great source of carbohydrates. In fact, in many African and Asian countries, the chestnut is used as a substitute for the potato. It is also an excellent source of fiber, potassium and Vitamin C. What’s more, thanks to its sweet taste, it can satisfy those winter cravings…without the fat and the calories. Definitely something worth singing about!

Recipe Week: Greek Style Leg of Lamb

If anyone is an expert at cooking fabulous tasting lamb, the Greeks are. Of course, we reserve serving lamb for the most special of occasions. And we do know how to throw a party! Opa!

Lots of lemon, garlic, rosemary, and oregano infuse this spring roast.

Yield : Makes 8 servings

Ingredients
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried rosemary, coarsely crumbled
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 leg of lamb, 5½ to 6 pounds, excess fat trimmed
¾ cup water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425° F.

2. In a small mixing bowl combine the lemon zest, oregano, rosemary, garlic, and flour. Stir in the lemon juice to make a paste, then season with salt and pepper. Make ½-inch, deep slits allover the leg of lamb. Rub the lemon paste all over the leg, making sure it gets into the slits.

3. Put the lamb on a rack in a roasting pan and pour the water into the bottom of the pan. Roast the lamb 30 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325° F and continue roasting until a meat thermometer registers 145° F for medium-rare meat, 1 to 1¼ hours longer.

4. Transfer the lamb to a cutting board and let sit 10 minutes before carving. Skim the fat from the pan juices and spoon over the sliced lamb.

If you try this recipe, be sure to tell us what you thought in the comments!

The Greek - Pita, Meze, Wine

Back in August we shared some exciting news with you...do you remember what it was? We were working on something special...a new place in One Arts Plaza for you to enjoy fine Greek cuisine.

We're thrilled to tell you our opening date is set for October 15, just a few short days away. In the midst of making our many, many preparations we came to a realization. We found the name Meze was too limiting and confused the public who did not immediately recognize that meze was Greek. Thus, the new name, 'The Greek - Pita, Meze, Wine' is a perfect description.

The Greek - Pita, Meze, Wine is going to be a perfect fit at One Arts Plaza. For those with a refined vision of life experience, One Arts Plaza is the place to be. Casual sophistication, the best of the arts, one dining destination with five delicious options...what's not to love?

Of course, we know The Greek is going to be your favorite. We're delighted to be working with the renowned Jason Kosmas for the cocktail menu. And equally delighted to tell you Richard Silva is on board as our Director of Culinary Operations.

We can't wait to share it with you in person. Mark your calendars...we want to see you there!

5 Reasons to Visit Greece

If you love coming to Zizikis for a fabulous meal or a memorable happy hour maybe it's time you consider a visit to the old country. With beautiful scenery, fascinating culture and truly divine cuisine to name a few, Greece offers a plethora of reasons for you to visit. Here we limit ourselves to just 5 of the top reasons our readers should consider Greece as their next destination.

1. A world apart: Traveling to Greece for the first time is a life-altering experience. The unique culture and the beauty of the stunning landscapes, alone, would be enough to amaze you. Add that to the rest of what Greece has to offer and prepare yourself for a long-lasting experience that you will remember forever.

2. A great climate: Greece is perfect for those who enjoy the sun, as for over two thirds of the year the country basks under clear, sunny skies. Not too hot but not too cold, Greece delivers the ideal climate offering everyone the opportunity to enjoy memorable holidays with a wide range of activities.

3. Diversity. Greece has a great range of places and landscapes that cannot be found together anywhere else. It’s like having a miniature world, where everything is included: from countless beautiful islands and beaches, to huge snow-covered mountains, great forests and spectacular cities.

4. Heritage: Get the chance to see, live, some of the most amazing monuments of the world, such as The Parthenon, the Archaeological Site of Delphi, or the breathtaking medieval town of Mystras, in the Peloponnese.

5. Island life: Greece is the land of islands. Islands of different shapes and sizes; different personalities; different possibilities. Where some of the most beautiful beaches of the world are waiting for you. Here you will get the chance to relax body and soul, under the sun, enjoying crystal blue water and fun activities.

If we had to choose another reason to visit Greece, it would be the extraordinary taste of Greek cuisine. The world’s most exquisite Mediterranean flavors are before you. Food here is ten times better and healthier not only because recipes have been perfected over time, by generations of Greek families, but because Greek food is based on fresh products. But you can find all this right here in DFW.

Slim and Greek - The Mediterranean Diet

How would you like to dine like Zeus and drink fine wines every day? If you're following the Mediterranean Diet - this is you.

Red wine and most of the ingredients in traditional Greek cuisine and Mediterranean dishes are great for the heart, and keep participants happily fed. (satisfied both with filling and taste, OPA!)

Heart attacks are quite rare in the Mediterranean, due to the diet of olive oil, soups and veggies, fresh fish, fruits and low calorie cheeses. Not to mention the heart-healthy and cholesterol benefits of eating beans (and did we mention - we have the biggest beans ever. They're called GIGANTE beans and rightfully so!)

Visit Ziziki's or Ziziki's Taverna for a heaping bowl of Gigante Beans, a healthy helping of Greek salad and some oilive oil & cheese. Oh, and some red, red wine. You'll leave healthy and happy! Opa!

Recipe: Greek Spice Cake

Photo Courtesy of Taste of Home

Who doesn't love cake? The brown sugar, almond extract, cinnamon and cloves is what really gives this cake it's exotic taste. Serve it warm for a special treat. See, you can have your cake and eat it too! Opa!

Prep: 25 min.
Bake: 50 min. + cooling
Yield: 12 Servings

Ingredients
1 tablespoon shortening
2 tablespoons plus 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup canola oil
1 cup buttermilk
3 eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1-1/2 teaspoons almond extract
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon confectioners' sugar

Directions

Grease 10-in. fluted tube/bundt pan with shortening; lightly coat with 2 tablespoons flour. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the sugars, oil, buttermilk, eggs and extracts until well blended. Combine the remaining flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves and baking soda; gradually beat into the sugar mixture until blended. Stir in pecans. Transfer to prepared pan.

Bake at 325° for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. Dust with confectioners' sugar.

If you try this recipe, be sure to tell us what  you thought in the comments!

10 Tourist Trivia Facts About Greece

We're bringing you a little bit of Greek Tourist Trivia. Maybe you have a trip to Greece in the future, maybe not. Either way, who doesn't love some fun trivia facts?

1. The official language in Greece is modern Greek, but in tourist areas English, French, German and Italian are also spoken.

2. Greece is eight hours ahead of Dallas, TX time.

3. For a stay of more than three months, a resident's permit must be obtained from the Aliens Bureau. Phone +30 (210) 7705 711.

4. Driving in Greece is on the right, and there are many car rental agencies in the various tourist centres. Tourists may use an International Driving Liscence if they wish to drive. Motorcycles are very commonly used in Greece and on the islands, for convenience reasons.

5. Greece uses the metric system, and the visitor from Anglo-Saxon countries which have not yet converted may find the following conversions usefull: 1 inch = approx. 25 mm 1 mile = approx. 1.6 km 77oF = approx. 25oC 1 kg = approx. 2.2 pounds

6. Shops and supermarkets in areas frequented by tourists are usually open all day long, from 9 am to 10 pm. A periptero is a sort of kiosk that sells all kinds of things, ranging from chocolate and chips, to batteries and magazines. These kiosks are very useful, they can be found easily and many are open 24 hours / day.

7. Water in all areas where tourists are likely to find themselves is chlorinated and perfectly safe to drink. Yet bottled water, you will find, is very popular, primarily for convenience reasons.

8. The sun in Greece is very bright and strong. In fact, most TV channels interrupt their regular summer program several times per day to broadcast Sunbathing Report. This report will tell you how long it is advized that you stay in the sun according to the time of day and your geographic location all around Greece.

9. There are no restrictions on amateur fishing, and visitors can even indulge in underwater speargun fishing without a licence, as long as they stay at least 200 meters away from the shore. When spear fishing, it is advised to go in pairs.

10. The drinking age in Greece is 16. The drinking age here at Ziziki's in Dallas and Plano, is 21. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 6pm. Come join the fun!

The History of Happy Hour

The term Happy Hour actually has its roots in Navy slang from the 20s, when the time for the scheduled period of entertainment on-ship was referred to as the happy hour. After the National Prohibition Act was instituted in 1919, speakeasies adopted the term for the hours patrons arrived to drink illegal cocktails prior to eating at restaurants that observed the prohibition. The term then began to be applied to the consumption of illegal liquor before dinner in the home as well.

Happy Hour really kicked into gear thanks to an article in a 1960s Saturday Evening Post issue where the Navy's scheduled entertainment time was mentioned. Bars and restaurants latched onto the concept to increase alcohol sales. 

Typically held between the hours of 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Happy Hour evolved into an after work event where co-workers would get together at the end of a work day to socialize and relieve stress. Every local tavern and popular restaurant boasted a happy hour of sorts, often offering cocktails at a discount for those hours.

The best Dallas happy hour is here at Ziziki’s is Monday through Friday from 4-6pm. Come blow off some steam with us.

Considering Going GREEK This Fall?

For some people, being part of a fraternity or sorority is a major part of their college identity. Like most things in life, Going Greek can be a mixed bag.

There are several considerations to being involved in Greek life:

1. Cost: This isn't something people give much thought too beforehand, but joining Greek life comes with some built-in expenses. Some costs include a recruitment fee, house fees and dues, a sorority pin, and social functions for both student and family. Many of these are optional, of course, but some are definitely not.

2. Alcohol use: Excessive and underage drinking is a common problem on college campuses in general, but peer pressure to drink can be even higher within the Greek system. This is something that many students deal with when they go to college, and certainly is something worth considering before deciding to join a fraternity or sorority.

3. Limitations: It's easy to let the Greek system become your entire world. Living in a fraternity or sorority gives you a place to belong at college, but it can become limiting as well. Remember to be involved outside of your sorority too.

4. Connections: Greek life is not the only way to meet new people, but it is one of the easiest ways. Being a part of a fraternity or sorority gives you an instant connection with a large group of people, and that network will continue to grow.

5. Events: Being in a sorority or fraternity provides many opportunities to engage in all kinds of events and activities, such as Homecoming Week, themed parties, serenades, philanthropy events, and theatrical productions. If these sound up your alley, definitely consider going Greek. Keep in mind, however, that some of these things can become major time commitments.

6. Belonging: It sounds cheesy, but a sorority or fraternity can become a home away from home, just as a dorm, group of friends, or campus organization can. Especially if moving into the house, my sorority sisters or brothers become the ones with whom you share everything—failed tests, lazy Sundays, new jobs, broken hearts, and game days, to name a few.

Before you go through recruitment, however, consider whether you will be comfortable living in a house with 70 other women or men. It is definitely a new experience, especially if you didn't grow up with siblings.

7. Stereotypes: It is undeniable that there are certain stereotypes associated with Greek life. There are people who will judge you for being in a sorority, or for which house you join. The important thing to remember is that each house has all types of students, so you shouldn't put too much stock in those who make assumptions about fraternity men or sorority women. This is another reason to be involved outside of your sorority. It can be just as rewarding to participate in activities that have to do with your academic focus or other interests.

Ziziki’s would be pleased to have you and your brothers or sisters come to dinner one night to celebrate. Remember - It’s fun to GO GREEK!

Recipe Week: Greek Yogurt Chocolate Truffles

Last week we gave you some great info on Greek yogurt. How about trying your hand at a treat made with that nutritious and delicious staple?

This truffle recipe gets rave reviews by everyone who tries it. They simply melt in your mouth. These are quite rich. Just one is sure to cure that chocolate craving.

Ingredients:
- 4 teaspoons of fat-reduced cocoa powder + some extra cocoa to roll the truffles
- 1 tablespoon of fat free Greek yogurt
- 5 tablespoons of powdered skim milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 5 drops of butter flavoring
- 3 teaspoons of artificial sweetener

Directions:
Mix everything together. Add extra powdered skim milk if necessary until the paste reaches a firm consistency. Put aside in the fridge for a few hours. Before serving them, roll the balls in cocoa powder.

If you try this recipe, be sure to tell us about it in the comments. 

Greek Yogurt: Better than Regular Yogurt?

Move over, regular yogurt. Going Greek is in! This exotic option has elbowed its way onto refrigerator shelves everywhere. Most give a big thumbs up to its taste—tangier and less sweet, as well as creamier—but is it healthier than its conventional counterpart?

Both Greek and regular yogurt, in their plain, nonfat or low-fat forms, can be part of a healthful diet. They're low in calories and packed with calcium and live bacterial cultures. But our Mediterranean friend—which is strained extensively to remove much of the liquid whey, lactose, and sugar, giving it its thick consistency—does have an undeniable edge. In roughly the same amount of calories, it can pack up to double the protein, while cutting sugar content by half. 

For someone who wants the creamier texture, a little bit of a protein edge, and a sugar decrease, going Greek is definitely not all hype. And it's really got a following: In the past five years, Greek yogurt sales nationwide have skyrocketed.

Here's a closer look at how the two stack up nutrition-wise.

Protein. Greek yogurt is high in protein, which helps promote fullness. A typical 6-ounce serving contains 15 to 20 grams, the amount in 2 to 3 ounces of lean meat. That makes it particularly appealing to vegetarians, who sometimes struggle to get enough of the nutrient. An identical serving of regular yogurt, on the other hand, provides just 9 grams.

Carbohydrates. Going Greek is a smart choice for low-carb dieters. It contains roughly half the carbs as the regular kind—5 to 8 grams per serving compared with 13 to 17. Plus, the straining process removes some of the milk sugar, and lactose. 

Fat. Be wary of Greek yogurt's fat content. In just 7 ounces, Fage's full-fat Greek yogurt packs 16 grams of saturated fat—or 80 percent of your total daily allowance if you're on a 2,000-calorie diet. Dannon's regular full-fat yogurt has 5 grams of saturated fat in an 8-ounce serving. If you're going Greek, stick to low-fat and fat-free versions.

Sodium. A serving of Greek yogurt averages 50 milligrams of sodium—about half the amount in most brands of the regular kind. 

Calcium. Regular yogurt provides 30 percent of the federal government's recommended daily amount. Greek yogurt loses some of its calcium through the straining process, but still packs a wallop. A 6-ounce cup typically supplies about 20 percent of the daily recommendation. 

Most experts agree that Greek yogurt has a nutritional edge. The key is sticking to plain, nonfat, or low-fat varieties.

When you do opt for Greek yogurt, take advantage of its versatility. Mix it with seasonings like garlic, dill, and parsley to create a unique dip for carrots, celery sticks, or cucumber slices. Toss in some berries or high-fiber granola. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream on tacos, for example, or for the eggs and oil in baked goods. It's an acceptable replacement for fatty ingredients like cream cheese, mayonnaise, and butter.

Thanks to Dallas News's Eats Blog!

If you keep up with the Eats Blog over at Dallas News, you probably know a little inside information about a little something we're working on here at Zizikis.

Wait, you haven't heard of Eats Blog? This is where the Dallas Morning News Restaurant Critic Leslie Brenner, Morning News Taste writers and arts staffers share news, updates and reviews from the Dallas dining scene. If you're a foodie living in DFW, you'll want to make their blog one of your frequent stops on the web.

Last month, Leslie wrote about The Commissary closing it's doors. In the same post she writes 'Costa and Mary Arabatzis, owners of Ziziki’s Restaurants, plan to open a Greek place, Meze, in the space in September.'

So there you have it...our surprise is out! We hope you're as excited as we are!

Ziziki's Taverna Wins Best Mediterranean - Addison Magazine

Ziziki's Taverna has once again won Favorite Mediterranean restaurant in the 2012 Readers' Choice Awards! A special thank you goes out to our Addison patrons, who have nominated and voted for us - to victory - TWO YEARS in a row for this great honor!

We've once again won Favorite Mediterranean restaurant with Addison Magazine Reader's Choice Awards! Thank you for making Ziziki's Taverna - Addison's Best Mediterranean Restaurant! OPA!

Pictured: Joni Linton, Ziziki's Taverna manager, Lulian Hankollari, Ziziki's Taverna bartender/server and Neel Gibbons, Ziziki's Restaurant manager

A Little Greek Culture: The Cretan Wine Festival is No More

For years, the Touring Club of Rethymnon, in collaboration with the Municipality of Rethymnon, organized the Rethymnon Wine Festival – a 2-week celebration of Cretan wine, music and dance. You bought a carafe and some glasses, and you could drink as much wine as you wanted, whilst listening to some very good Cretan music and watching some fantastic dancing. Sounds like heaven (or maybe Mt. Olympus), yes?

In 2008 the municipality of Rethymnon made the decision to stop organizing the Wine Festival, at least in the same format.

In 2009 the Wine Festival was re-introduced, but with a completely new identity and format. Then again, in 2012 the identity of the festival was changed-the 1st Cretan Diet Festival was born. 

Now, don’t let the word diet scare you off. This isn’t a festival that centers around diet food. Rather it’s a cultural experience that goes beyond wine and music to include food, crafts and other traditional Greek food products. 

Thinking it’s time to hunt up those tickets to Greece you purchased a while back? Oh. No tickets to Greece? Well, that’s alright. We can give you a taste of Greece here at Ziziki's…bring your appetite!

Make Your Own Greek Salad Dressing

Run to your fridge and grab a bottle of salad dressing. No, really. Go.
What are the ingredients? The best things in life really are the most simple things. 


So, what’s a salad lover to do? Easy! Just make your own dressing! It takes minutes to do, you probably have the ingredients, and you can reuse one of your old glass salad dressing bottles for storage.

Everyone loves a Greek Vinaigrette. It makes even a simple plate of spinach something special to enjoy.  We can share some recipes with you, without giving away our famous, traditional, ancient Greek cuisine secrets. OPA!

Basic Greek Vinaigrette

• 1/2 c. red wine vinegar
• 1/3 c. olive oil
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 3/4 tsp. pepper
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 3/4 tsp. onion powder
• 3/4 tsp. Dijon mustard

Add all ingredients to a jar or container with a tight fitting lid.  Shake well to combine. Refrigerate after use. Makes 1 cup (8 oz).

Interesting Facts About Greek Desserts

What makes YaYa's desserts so scrumptious?  It's years of experience and family tradition - coupled with some little-known trivia.

1. Ancient Greeks used Honey instead of sugar because sugar as we know it did not exist in Greece.

2. What sets Greek desserts apart is their eastern influence. Whereas western desserts are more sponge and cream based, the Greek sweets are sugar based. Many include fillo pastry, which is paper thin sheets of pastry, layered upon each other to create a multi-layered effect, as in baklava. With many nuts - such as walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts and almonds being in abundance in Greece, it is no surprise to see these nuts used widely in their desserts. Once the dessert is baked, it is drenched in a sweet aromatic honey syrup, as in walnut cake - Karythopita. Apart from the beautiful flavors it infuses, the syrup helps to preserve the dessert.

3. Although Americans call these 'desserts' - Greeks refer to them as sweets - they are generally not eaten after a meal as we would in other western countries. In Greece dessert is rarely eaten after a meal and if so it is most likely to be whichever fruit is in season. Rather, desserts are kept and brought out during the day, along with a Greek coffee and a glass of iced water, especially when there is a visitor. In this way the sweets can be savored and enjoyed completely on their own, away from the fullness of a meal, which is fitting since they are in themselves very filling and a truly sensational taste.

The next time you’re looking to share a coffee and a sweet with a friend, skip the standard drive through your friend to Ziziki’s.

The Events Of Tradition: 2012 Summer Olympics

We hope you’re enjoying the events leading up to the 2012 Summer Olympics. In the time of the original games the altar of the sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hestia maintained a continuous flame. For the ancient Greeks, fire had divine connotations—it was thought to have been stolen from the gods by Prometheus. Therefore, fire was also present at many of the sanctuaries in Olympia, Greece. During the Olympic Games, which honored Zeus, additional fires were lit at his temple and that of his wife, Hera.

Today the modern Olympic flame is ignited at the site where the temple of Hera used to stand. This sacred day (again!) for the London Olympic torch came Thursday, with the usual ceremony in ancient Olympia, lighting the torch from the eternal Olympic flame. The priestesses were in high form.
The torch relay begins in Olympia for every Olympics and winds through Greece before being flown to Great Britain for a relay that covers 8,000 miles of that country. It culminates in lighting the caldron at London’s Olympic stadium at the Opening Ceremony. Spyros Gianniotis, a Greek world champion swimmer, was the first torch bearer in Olympia.

An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame during its 8,000 mile journey around the UK before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium on 27 July 2012 for the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
And we just can’t wait! Have you picked out your favorite athletes yet? Tell us in the comments…

Father's Day Brunch

“Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father!” -- Lydia M. Child

Treat Your Dad to Ziziki’s Father’s Day Brunch!

A flavorful selection of your favorite Ziziki’s items and Complimentary Glass of Champagne or Mimosa Plus these signature brunch items…

• Mediterranean Shrimp
• House Smoked Salmon with Bagels & Herbed Cream Cheese
• Buttermilk Pancakes with Cinnamon Syrup
• Greek Scrambled Eggs with Feta Cheese & Basil
• Roasted Leg of Lamb with Red Wine Sauce
• Ya Ya Katina’s Baklava

3 seatings: 11am, 12:30 & 2pm $24.95 / person

Voted Dallas’ best Sunday Brunch By Dallas Observer!

The 2012 Olympics Are Getting Close

As London is preparing for the 2012 Olympics we thought we’d give you a little hint as to who we’ll be rooting for this year! Any guesses?

Everyone knows that the Olympics were invented by Greeks. The Olympics were of fundamental religious importance, featuring sporting events alongside ritual sacrifices honoring both Zeus and Pelops, divine hero and mythical king of Olympia. Yes, originally the Olympics were basically religious events.

Greeks have been historically good at weightlifting, shooting and wrestling. Weightlifter Pyross Dimas won three gold medals at three consecutive Olympic games (1992, 1996 and 2000) and managed a bronze in 2004.

Taekwondo fighter Alexandros Nikolaidis was a favorite to win gold in Beijing but walked away with silver but he’s back for another shot this year.

Click here to get a look at the long list of qualifying Greek Athletes.

Graduation Party Pop - Catering Ideas For Special Events

Graduation time is upon us, whether it is a High School graduation or a college graduation -
and with both come parties and celebrations. While this time is super-exciting for graduating seniors, it can be a stressful, emotional and a sad time for parents. One of those stressful things about a graduating child, is planning their celebration.

Of course, the Greeks celebrated EVERYTHING in a grand way, and certainly, this is a monumental time in your, and your child's life. Celebrate GRANDLY by going Greek for your celebration! You can either throw your party at Ziziki's with our private dining and events rooms, or opt for some Greek deliciousness with our catering.

Make the most out of every memory; celebrate your graduate's accomplishments and
have Ziziki's cater your special occasion. Focus on rounding up family and long-lost
friends and leave the rest to Ziziki’s with our wonderful catering menu. Just choose
some of your favorite dishes from the Ziziki’s like the Greek lasagna – Pastichio or some
wonderfully tasty Greek meatballs – Keftedes. Download our catering menu here.

Ziziki's offers new-age Greek cuisine as well as traditional dishes that will have you and
your entire party saying "Opa!" (oh, and Good Luck Grad!)

Fun Greek Games To Play WIth Your Family

We recently had a family visit one of our Greek restaurants for a little Greek Heritage. Turns out this cute little family recently started a fun tradition called ‘Explore the World’ where every month or so they research a new culture. They dive right in with a bit of historical research and then proceed to bring some of their research into their lives. They dress up, they eat common foods and they play games. What a fun, budget friendly, way to bring the big wide world into your home.

In honor of this idea we thought we’d share a few fun Greek games you can share with the kids in your life.

1. Ephedrismos was a popular game whose name is derived from the Greek word for “sit upon.” Two
players place a stone upright on the ground and throw other stones at it from a distance. The player
who fails to knock over the upright stone then carries the other player on his back while the winner’s hands cover his eyes. The pair runs around in this fashion until the losing player touches the stone.

2. Morra is a game still played in some parts of Europe, particularly southern Italy. Two players make a fist behind their backs and at a signal extend their hands, displaying a certain number of fingers. The first player to call out the correct total number of fingers shown wins the game.

3. Greek children also loved to play a game called ostrakinda. The name of the game is derived from
that of the shell that is used during play. Greek children would take a shell and smear one side black.
They referred to this side as “night,” while the blank side was “day.” The children then drew a line,
divided into two teams, and decided which team was night and which day. One player would toss the shell, and the side whose color came up chased the other team. Anyone caught was forced to carry his pursuer on his back. Plato is likely making an analogy based on this popular game when he writes, “So this, it seems, would not be the whirling of a shell in the children’s game, but a conversation and turning about of the soul from a day whose light is darkness to the veritable day.” Variations of ostrakinda are still played in Europe. English children play a version called “Crusts and Crumbs,” French children one called “Le Jour et La Nuit,” and Austrian children a game called “Schwarz-Weiss.”

4. Greek children enjoyed playing episkyros, also known as ephebike—a sort of rugby-football type game. The players divided into two teams. Each team stood on one side of a line drawn on the ground. A goal line was drawn behind each team; the two sides then fought to reach the other side’s goal line.

Ziziki's Taverna Nominated For Favorite Mediterranean Restaurant With Addison Magazine

Ziziki's Taverna has once again been nominated Favorite Mediterranean restaurant in the 2012 Readers' Choice Awards!

 Click here to VOTE NOW!

A special thank you goes out to our Addison patrons, who have nominated and voted for us - to victory - last year for this great honor! We' ve been nominated as Favorite Mediterranean restaurnat with Addison Magazine Reader's Choice Awards! Now, we need your votes to seal the deal and launch us into first place. Thank you for making Ziziki's Taverna - Addison's Best Mediterranean Restaurant!

The Story of Greek Migrations To America

With the Olympics approaching we’re finding ourselves reflecting on our Greek Heritage. It’s a well-known fact that America is considered a melting pot. And as Greeks, we're glad to be one big ingredient in the pot!

Greeks began to settle in America at the end of the 19th century. By the outbreak of the First World War there were about 300,000 Greek immigrants in the United States. The main reason for leaving Greece wa unemployment, low wages and high prices. Most Greeks settled in cities where they tended to find menial, unskilled work.

Greek communities were often self-sufficient with their own churches, coffee house, mutual benefit societies and political clubs. Greek Orthodox religious festivals and traditions were strictly observed. By 1910 both New York and Chicago had Greek-language newspapers. Since 1820 over 655,000 people have emigrated to the United States from Greece.



The 1980s can be characterized as the start of a return to historical memory, a review of the path taken by Greeks in America. This was yet another opportunity for Greek-Americans to honor their unique heritage.

Today Greeks are found in every aspect of American culture far beyond restaurateurs. In fact, here are a few Greeks you might be familiar with:

• Tina Fey (S&L and Thirty Rock)
• Melina Kanakaredes (CSI NY)
• Michael Chiklis (The Shield)
• Yanni (famous musician)
• Telly Savalis (Kojak)
• Jennifer Aniston (Friends)
• Michael Dukakis (80s presidential candidate)
• Olympia Dukakis (actress)
• Nia Vardalos (Big Fat Greek Wedding)
• Billy Zane (Titanic)

Zizikis - A Dallas Legend

When a customer walks through the doors of Zizikis Dallas, they have entered a restaurant full of history and wonderful cuisine.

Zizikis is an upscale Dallas Greek and Italian restaurant owned by Mary and Costa Arabatzis that has been in Dallas nearly 15 years. They developed a passion for wine, and have an award winning wine list that compliments their unique menu which items such as their famous Greek salad and their tangy yogurt sauce - tzatziki sauce (which is where the name Ziziki’s came from).

Ziziki’s has grown so much, that within the last several years they have expanded the Travis Walk location by providing a private dining area that seats up to 40, and have added new locations in Plano and another location in Dallas making it an easy and delicious destination from any part of the Dallas area.

Zizikis has won many prestigious awards over the years by national food critics and others alike such as the “Award of Excellence” from the Wine Spectator (has been awarded every year since 1995), one of Zagat Guide's 'best new restaurants' in 1998, Best Brunch from Dallas Observer in 2000 - and many others.

You will no doubt have a magnificent time eating at this five star Dallas restaurant with the wonderful food and friendly staff.

Visit one of these great Ziziki's locations:

Ziziki’s at Travis Walk at 4514 Travis St. in Dallas
Ziziki’s at Preston/Forest at 11661 Preston Rd. #309 in Dallas
Ziziki’s at Lakeside Market at 5809 Preston Rd. #578 in Plano

Make Ziziki's Your Event Catering Ritual

Graduation parties are just around the corner. Mother's Day, and Father's Day celebrations are also on the horizon. Celebrations occur year round - and what do most people like to do when they gather and celebrate? Eat! And who knows how to celebrate and eat better than anyone else in the world? GREEKS!

Did you know that Ziziki's offers Dallas catering services? All of your favorite dishes - mezzes, sides, main courses and desserts - can be presented at your event, and are guaranteed to woo and wow your guests.

Click here to download our catering menu or contact us to find out how we can help your event be even more spectacular! OPA!

Celebrate Easter Together With Dallas Best Brunch

Join us to celebrate Easter - Special Brunch Menu

Join us at all three locations for a special Easter Menu and our award-winning brunch!

Start your meal with a complimentary glass of champagne or a Mimosa. Then, enjoy the brunch that has been a runner-up on WFAA-List Best of Dallas BEST BRUNCH for three years running:

A flavorful selection of your favorite Ziziki’s items:
Spanakopita, Dolmades, Mediterranean Salad, Greek Island Chicken, Rigatoni with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Sauce

Plus these signature brunch items…

• Mediterranean Shrimp
• House Smoked Salmon with
• Bagels & Herbed Cream Cheese
• Buttermilk Pancakes with Cinnamon Syrup
• Greek Scrambled Eggs with Feta Cheese & Basil
• Roasted Leg of Lamb with Red Wine Sauce
• Ya Ya Katina’s Baklava

Easter Eggs and Chocolates For All Children!

3 seatings at 11am, 12:30pm & 2pm
$24.95 per person

Easter evening we will be featuring our regular dinner menu.

Greens and Greek Cuisine

Greens grow wild all over Greece, and have been a staple in nearly every angle of Greek cuisine for years. One of the most famous dishes that is found in everyday Greek cooking is horta, which are, simply stated - boiled greens. And might recognize the word horta, or hort - as the root for all things 'horticultural' or 'green'. And, there are an array of other greens found in common cookery with varying uses such as herbs, eaten raw, used in casseroles or salads - or boiled for horta.

Greens are used in nearly every dish - including main dishes. From meat, chicken and fish entrees and pork (best with a bit of avgolemono, or lemon juice and egg sauce) to Hortopitakia, which are phyllo pies packed with garden greens and herbs.

And depending on how you like your salads - nearly all the greens used in Greek cuisine can be eaten in any of the dishes used (even though some may surprise you!) - along with the common spinach, lettuce and other bulbs, collards and such - are:

• Cabbages (white, red, kale, etc.)
• Catnip (Catmint, Nepeta)
• Dandelion Greens
• Fennel
• Golden Thistle
• Leeks
• Mache (Lamb's Lettuce, Wild Lettuce)
• Mallow
• Nettles
• Palmer Amaranth (Albersia, Vlita)
• Poppy
• Purslane
• Sow-thistle
• Spiny Chicory
• White Beet Leaves
• Brassicae greens (kale, collard greens)
• Sow-thistles
• Wild Mustard Greens
• Chard

Ziziki's Open Table Local Diners Favorite

Wow, we've just noticed that Dallas has spoken, and that we're a favorite among the diners in town! OpenTable.com is the company we use to help us with online reservations for all our restaurants, (you can find links on our websites to make reservations!) and they maintain lists of favorite Dallas restaurants in several categories.

We are thrilled to have been named in TWO categories by OpenTable.com - one, as a Dallas favorite place to lunch, and also as a Dallas neighborhood gem!

Our listing as Diner's Choice for favorite place to lunch goes to our Preston/Forest location - which has been one of our flagship locations since inception. Opa! And neighborhood favorite, of course - went to our Travis Walk location - where our upbeat Mediterranean restaurant sits amongst great company with other restaurants and shops in the Uptown Dallas/Knox/Henderson area.

Loving The Sweet Things At Ziziki's

What will you be doing this weekend with the one you love? Why not treat your sweetie to something SWEET? You are always in for a smile from your significant other when you share something so 'divine'.

Join us for our special Valentine's Day Dinners at all three locations, or maybe come in and try our exclusive and authentic Greek desserts!! OPA!

• Baklava Ice Cream Cake: Our specialty! Homemade baklava layered with vanilla bean ice cream.
• Ya Ya Katina's Baklava: Layers of filo, walnuts, cinnamon and our Ya Ya’s homemade syrup. Opa!
• Tiramisu: Mascarpone cheese, brandy, Marsala and espresso cake. An Italian “pick me up” made fresh daily.
• Chocolate Liquor Cake: Absolutely decadent! Moist chocolate cake made with Kahlua and rich chocolate morsels.
• Gelato & Sorbet: On the lighter side…try chocolate, lemon or raspberry.

Of course our Baklava Ice Cream Cake is a Chef Costa exclusive specialty - find out more about it from his appearance on Good Morning Texas:

Dine With Eros - Valentine's Day Dining With Ziziki's

Treat your loved one to a Valentine's Day dinner fit for Eros, the god of love!

We'll be offering a special menu at all of our locations (including Ziziki's Taverna) on Valentine's day! You're sure to fall in love with the food, dish after dish, with our three-course meal. And of course, the atmosphere will be warm and friendly as always. After all, the Greeks are of course - known for romance! OPA!

We'll be offering this special menu the entire weekend before Valentine's Day - in addition to our regular menu - so that you can celebrate when it's best for you!

Valentine's Day Menus & Dining Events

Ziziki's - All Locations
Join us with the one you love on Valentine's Day for our exclusive three-course menu that includes an appetizer platter plus your choice of a salad and entree for only $49.00 per person! The Valentine's Menu is an exclusive menu for Valentine's Evening. On Tuesday, February 14th our regular dinner menu will not be available on Valentine's Day evening. Reservations are recommended.

Ziziki's Taverna - Addison Walk
A special Valentine's Day menu will be offered in addition to our regular menu: Start with your choice of Mezze (a flavorful Greek small plate), then you can select a Greek Salad and end with your choice of one of our special Entrees, all for only $30.00 per person. Add a bottle of your favorite wine for an additional $20!