Eleni's Philoxenia

Eleni's Philoxenia Restaurant Review:

On Crete, Greece's largest island, family-run tavernas traditionally provide evening entertainment, and guests linger until late, savoring small plates with wine, ouzo or raki. Eleni's Philoxenia ("philoxenia" means "hospitality" in Greek) lacks the Mediterranean backdrop, but provides a similar relaxed setting. Intimate booths and candlelight enhance the dining experience. Cretan food is traditionally healthy and uncomplicated; Eleni's follows this template, and adds Pacific Northwest ingredients. Try the octopus panzanella or the Minoan combining lettuces, spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, onions, beets, avocado and asparagus. Don't miss the kalitsounia, a pastry filled with cheese and mint and drizzled with honey. Entrée choices range from vegetarian dishes such as pasta tossed with Greek-style pesto, a blend of parsley, dill, roasted peppers, Marcona almonds, oregano and lemon zest; to mussels baked in tomato sauce and feta cheese. There's also a daily lamb special. Baklava is made with sweet layers of pistachios and hazelnuts, garnished with candied orange zest, crushed cinnamon bark and mint. The wine list is largely Greek. During happy hour, enjoy a selection of pita sandwiches ($7 each). Service is warm and friendly.