Monthly Feature

It’s summertime, as I’m sure you’ve noticed. While this is the time of year that we like to get out and explore all that the area has to offer, sometimes it’s just too hot to enjoy a heavy meal. So, what’s the solution?

Why not enjoy the delightful tastes of the Mediterranean at Bell Greek Authentic Grill?

Summertime in Central Virginia is similar to the summers that you’ll find on the Aegean Coast. That’s where Ibo Pinar grew up. Pinar is the owner of Bell Greek, which is located in the Shoppes at Bellgrade (11307 Polo Place).

The foods on his menu are reflective of the foods he enjoyed as a boy. It’s fresh. It’s flavorful. It’s healthy. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s delicious. 

That’s the reason that folks flock to annual Greek festivals. We all love Greek cuisine. There’s such a variety of tastes and spices and flavors. Oh yes! The food is so flavorful. But why wait for that once-a-year festival when you can enjoy fantastic Greek favorites year round at Bell Greek.

Pinar describes the menu as offering “Greek comfort food,” adding, “Everyone loves Southern Comfort food. Well, this is Greek Comfort food…all the Greek favorites.” And most of the food is homemade. They even make their own tzatziki and hummus.

I asked Pinar for a summertime menu suggestion. He says the Papoutsakia, is a big hit this time of year. Describing this eggplant dish, he says, “We remove the inside, sauté it with vegetables, tomatoes and onions and stuff it back into the eggplant.”

Bell Greek’s beautiful patio makes for the perfect spot to enjoy the Greek salad served with either grilled shrimp or salmon.  Of course, you’ll discover your own personal favorites. Mine is the pasticcio. It somewhat resembles lasagna, but, in my opinion, is much more flavorful. Pinar says that the gyros are a very popular choice with diners. But regardless of what you’re having, you will always want to save room for one of the fabulous homemade Greek desserts. Besides the baklava, which is amazing, Pinar says his galaktoboureko is very popular. Why wouldn’t it be? The dish consists of a custard stuffed in phyllo dough and served warm with syrup. 

In addition to offering wonderful dining experiences, Pinar is very active in working with local groups such as schools, little leagues, and churches in sponsoring fund-raising events. “We do lots of school spirit nights,” he says. “Whoever comes in the door, we don’t say ‘No.’”

Yes, Bell Greek is, indeed, more than just a cozy, comfy spot to feast on Greek comfort food throughout the summer and throughout the year. It offers the opportunity to enjoy an affordable and delicious meal with the whole family and friends and, at the same time, help give back to the community. And could you ask for anything more than that?

There are three Bell Greek Grills throughout the Metro area and, in addition, Pinar operates More Than Greek in Hanover. To find the location nearest you and to peruse the appetite-whetting menu, visit BellGreek.com.