Watch CBS News

TOTT: Tradition Key Ingredient At The Greek Joint

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

HOLLWOOD (CBSMiami) – Whether it's the expertly grilled lamb chops, the fabulous fava bean dip or the truly authentic Greek salad, you'll feel like you've hit mama's mother lode at The Greek Joint on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood.

Owner Jimmy Sklavenitis opened up this family style restaurant a few years ago after moving from a smaller location.

"For a little over three years ago, we were in small place that was so tight we had to pass out birth control! That's how tight it was!" joked Jimmy.

It's a 6,500-square feet restaurant with dining inside and a patio on the outside plus a sidewalk.

"There's great people watching, there's different bars, and restaurants and cool trendy spots," he said. "You see all kinds of people walking up and down the boulevard on the weekends and during the week."

Sklavenitis counts on his regulars who come back weekly to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the fresh food which he prides himself on.

"Everything is made fresh. We think we are an affordable restaurant, everyone can come and find something they will enjoy here," Sklavenitis said. "Our cuisine is obviously traditional but we add a twist here and there's a spice it up."

The Greek salad is super traditional.

"Our traditional, obviously, Greek salad has no lettuce inside ever and it should not," Jimmy explained.

It has chunks of feta cheese with tomatoes and cucumbers in a light Greek dressing.

Mama's Tiropita was created by Sklavenitis mom.

"It comes with feta and ricotta cheeses, mint, oregano and olive oil in phyllo dough and we top with cucumber and tomatoes in a light Greek dressing," Sklavenitis said.

Sklavenitis told CBS4's Lisa Reporter his mom's Tiropita is life changing. Well, after taking a bite, Petrillo totally agreed.

"It has gooey cheese and crispy, light phyllo dough and then a Greek salad on top," she said.

Petrillo then tried the fava dip made with pureed hummus and chopped red onions and tomatoes, which she said hits the spot.

"If you watch 'Taste of the Town,' you know I'm a dipper. I'd be dipping all day long. This fava bean dip is special and filled with flavor," Petrillo said.

Sklavenitis then brought out the lamb chops served with sautéed spinach and a plentiful heaping of lemon potatoes.

"There are lemon fresh herbs on top. The meat is super tender. It's a melt in your mouth lamb chop," Petrillo said.

The Greek Joint not only has great food, but also great deals.

On Sundays it's "Disconnect to Reconnect." You give up your phones, iPods and all electronic devices at the table and 15 percent is taken off the bill. But pick them up before dinner is done and the deal is off.

The Greek Joint, located at 1925 Hollywood Boulevard, is open seven days a week lunch and dinner.

Visit them online at www.thegreekjoint.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.