Dolmathes
@ Mezés

The Dish:

Dolmathes (also known as Dolmas) are my number one favorite dish from the culinary gods. In case you don't know, dolmas are bundles of rice wrapped in grape leaves (which strongly resemble the fig leaves that famously cover the privates of Adam and Eve). Many countries and regions have their own versions, but Mezés serves my favorite style, which is vegetarian. Each grape leaf is stuffed with rice, onions parsley, dill, mint, pine nuts, and golden raisins and topped with a lemon slice. The result is a pillow of deliciousness that is fresh, healthy, and a definite must-have on the menu.

Key Ingredients: Grape leaves, rice, onions, olive oil, herbs, pine nuts, raisins, lemon slice

The Place:

Mezés is a score on the 'Nut (Chestnut Street) in the Marina. It has been there for more than 10 years and is warm and inviting once you walk in the door. You feel like family, although the scene is no My Big Fat Greek Wedding. There is a patio outside where you can sit and eat. You will want to order everything, so a big group is necessary to secure a variety of flavors, colors, and different dishes.

Other Menu Musts:

Spanakotiropita (filo dough stuffed with spinach, feta, and herbs) and gyros.

Little Known Facts:

You can catch live music on the last Thursday of each month, and every Tuesday you can enjoy tasting menus that feature anywhere from 8 to 12 bites for $25-$35.

Recommended By:

Carina is on a quest for the elusive foodgasm and is documenting her conquests on Mission Fruition, SF Weekly, Scoutmob, Twitter, and anywhere else that will listen. She loves fruit components in nearly every dish, and one of her dreams in life is to have the most extensive vinegar collection and cellar the world has ever seen.

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