By Madeline Cook
Nikos
Brightleaf Square off of Mainstreet in Durham beckons historians, art lovers and foodies alike. While the quaint boutiques and beautiful galleries might be the reason you plan a visit to this special junction, let the flavors of Nikos and its celebration of Greek culture be the reason you come hungry!
This beautiful eatery pays homage to the ancient Grecian concept of “philoxenia”, or “friendship to strangers” as evidenced by the warm atmosphere and abundance of shareable meze plates to enjoy with your family and friends before you partake in a meal you won’t forget.
A lovely arrangement of glass and wicker vases adorn whitewashed shelves while pops of cobalt blue give the space a Grecian feel that honors its culinary roots. I admit that I snapped a few photos to inspire my own home decor! A dozen styles of beautiful light fixtures illuminate tall ceilings and rust-colored bricks remind guests that the history runs deep inside the walls of Brightleaf Square!
Once the soft guitar strumming and pleasing decor transport you somewhere off the Aegean Sea, it’s time to look at the menu! Nikos features an eye-catching wine cellar on one wall, which might inspire you to try a glass of wine produced from the vineyards of Lebanon, Slovenia or Israel. Cocktails and mocktails feature creative ingredients like orange shrub, hibiscus, and tarragon.
Starting with a light bite, the brussel sprouts easily ranked among our top three most memorable, with crispy leaves practically melting in your mouth thanks to caramelization by date glaze and a tangy aioli punch. For next time, I have my eye on the Spanakopita with pickled fennel wrapped in flakey phyllo.
Never one to shy away from pasta, the Summer Ricotta Gnocchi tasted as though the sweet corn, peas and mushrooms had been plucked fresh from the garden earlier that day! The Chicken Shwarma was unexpectedly flavorful, even spicy in a subtle way when balanced with the herby dipping sauce.
Tucked off the back wall, across from the wine cellar sits an inviting room available to reserve for group gatherings! Loved ones are sure to enjoy conversation over a wonderful meal in the comforts of that intimate space.
Nikos hosts guests for an amazing weekend brunch too, so if pancakes, benedict and shakshuka are up your alley, you might as well plan two visits! Monday through Friday offer dinner starting at 5PM, and weekend brunch kicks off at 11AM. Opa!
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