Sunday, March 11, 2012

Orea Taverna :: Placentia, CA

Orea Taverna & Wine Bar
1390 N. Kraemer Blvd. Placentia, CA 92870
Phone: (714) 993-6732

www.oreataverna.com


Classy. Was our first impression as we entered this restaurant. We were definitely impressed with the style and environment of it, and we were eager to see and taste the menu! Once we were seated and began to interact with the servers and observed the other customers stroll in, we began to realize that there was something especially unique about this place. It had a warm feeling, something that you would feel when you are at home, eating comfortably in your own kitchen. We were hooked, and we haven't even tasted the food!

The restaurant has a variety of seating, there are perfect tables for 2 or 4 people, as well as family style seating for larger groups. There is also a very comfortable patio with a fireplace and a waterfall, we hope to reserve it for a party someday :)


Umm, this is our lunch, we were quite hungry :)
I know, it all looks so delicious. Adrian was quite scared of Greek food at first, but when he met the owner of this restaurant one day, he was convinced to try out this exotic cuisine :)


Appetizer: SAGANAKI -- pan-fried sheep cheese with a splash of lemon
Don't be scared by the description! You will want more, we promise...
A very unique tasting dish, so many flavors and textures united together: salty, lemony, and chewy, all united with deliciously soft pita bread. This is only the beginning...


Soup: AVGOLEMONO SOUP -- Greek soup made with chicken broth, egg, and lemon
I love the presentation of this, it is so beautiful!
I wasn't sure how I would like the soup, because it sounded a little bit strange. But after the first bite I was pleasantly surprised, and very delighted by the soft, yet flavorful warm blend of flavors. The chicken broth was a flavorful base, the egg was subtle (I wouldn't have known it was in there if it wasn't stated), and the lemon added a zest. The crispy pita bread was a nice little treat on the side.



FALAFEL -- fried patties of garbanzo, fava beans, parsley and onions served with pickled turnips and tahini sauce.
Adrian found his favorite way to eat vegetables! I have eaten falafels at various places, but these instantly made it to the top of my list. I was able to taste the high quality of the ingredients, and they were delicious!


GYRO -- seasoned beef and lamb on a rotisserie, sliced and served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions and tzaziki sauce. Served in pita bread.
Adrian's choice, and he was very happy with his decision! The meat was very tender and delicious! The best way to eat this is by putting tzaziki sauce on each bite.



KATAFEI KREMA -- a greek style cheesecake with a custard cream center, lemon zest, and topped with shredded wheat, covered in honey syrup and baked. Topped with cinnamon....
WOW! This is one of THE BEST desserts I have EVER tasted! I dream about it, and anticipate my next chance to savor this wonderful dessert...
It comes out warm, and it warms me up inside. I absolutely love honey, so the fact that every bite of this dessert is soaked in honey is wonderful. The shredded wheat adds a nice tough contrast to the soft custard inside. Oh and the finishing cinnamon touch, all so good!!