Review: Daphne’s California Greek

Daphne’s California Greek restaurant has reinvented their food offerings and image in the past few years.  I recently had the opportunity to try a new menu item – their Cali-Greek Bowl.  I had not visited a Daphne’s in a while because I was skeptical about their move away from Mediterranean style to be more of a “Cali” cuisine.

Keeping an open mind, I think they made the right impression with a mix of both styles in this new dish.  It was a combination of brown rice, black beans, guacamole, chopped tomatoes, and even bacon.  I chose chicken for my protein and the flavor combinations were a good fit.  They topped it with their Chipotle sauce, which I had served on the side.

The dish had similarities to other Mexican style bowl offerings in the area  but the bacon really added the unique flavor to set this meal apart from the rest.  The chicken was tender although a bit charred on the surface, and the rice and beans helped blend it all together.  It was somewhat salty for my taste, as may be expected in this style of dish –  but I think the bacon added that extra salt dimension. I did enjoy it overall.

The bowl serving size was enough on its own to fill a modest appetite, and I ordered a combo which included a Greek salad plus grilled vegetables.  Daphne’s Greek salad has always been consistent, and yet somewhat heavy on the dressing.  I forgot to order the dressing on the side and would recommend that for light eaters.   The grilled vegetables were flavorful: carrots, green beans, and peppers, and I would suggest a double portion if you want a nice alternative to their standard salad.

A fountain drink was also included, and they have an option to “add a twist” of extra flavor.  I tried this, as well as the green tea, which was quite good for a restaurant with fast-food-style drinks.

Since I also had my boys with me they ordered some food as well. One of them had the mix and match two which included a chicken kabob and gyro meat with fries and rice, and my other son had a gyro pita with salad, the lemon chicken soup and some pita and hummus. My kids love the meat here as it is a combination of lamb and beef. The portion sizes are great and both of them were beyond filled at the end.

Their Avgolemono (lemon) soup is seriously the best we have had anywhere. I have yet to find a greek restaurant with better soup. Its creamy, lemony and oh so delicious. And it is not to acidic.

The hummus was really smooth and creamy with just a hint of garlic and the pita triangles were warm and fluffy. You can also request muti-grain pita too for a healthy choice.

The interior was very clean, bright, and colorful, with plenty of seating on a Friday afternoon.  I think the new image will bring people back to this restaurant, since the Greek style is difficult to stand out with so much competition in the local market. We thoroughly enjoyed our meals and are looking forward to coming back and trying the flat bread pizzas.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary gift card. I was not compensated in any way for the review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.