Costas

Costas is located on the southwest corner of NE 47th and University Way NE.   The food is Greek with a strong American influence.  Actually, I don't know that there is a strong American influence, that's just a guess.  I've gone there for years.  My mother lived in the Wilsonian Apartments, across the street, for a long time and we would often eat with her at Costas.  We loved their Greek lentil soup, Faki, their fettucine with mitzithra cheese, and their wavy french fries.

There were six of us this time, myself and five colleagues from work.  For old times sake, I had the fettucine with mitzithra that comes with soup, Faki, of course.  My colleagues ordered everything from the salmon burger and omelets to the Greek sampler.

The food was predictable and filling.  My fettucine had a higher fat content than I remember and I would have preferred to have a side salad over the soup, which also did not live up to my memories.  The longtime staff were friendly and helpful.  When I say "longtime", I mean it.  These are the same people who were serving when I would eat there with my mom.  The food came quickly.  Portions were generous.  My bill with tip came to about $16, a bit higher than I would want to spend regularly.

The restaurant is located on a corner with lots of windows.  The decor is homey with plenty of plants and curios on the walls.  Costas offers sit-down service at tables with real dinnerware, silverware and cloth napkins.  Although we went there for lunch, Costas is one of the few places on the Ave that offers a real breakfast menu.  So next time Mom or Grandma is in town, give it a try.

http://www.costasontheave.com