A Taste of the Mediterranean

Buongiorno! A way to say a hello in Italian. Yassas! Another warm greeting, except from Greece this time. Both of these greetings are from countries existing in the Mediterranean. Both countries have their own unique, delicious cuisine. Yet, many would many people would not expect to have a combination of both cuisines. Well, in Ballard, Washington, there happens to be a restaurant that serves both.
The name of the restaurant, Soprano's, is distinctively Italian. The view from the doorway gives off the vibe of an Italian restaurant. The walls are painted a Tuscan yellow with pictures that add an extra accent. Of course, there is the cliche autographed picture of Frank Sinatra to add the Italian-American touch. Yet, the real surprise is the menu. Within the menu, there so many pasta dishes it will make your head spin. Although there are no greek dishes on the pasta menu, there are a few dishes in the appetizers and pizzas portion that have a greek accent. I was fortunate enough to try the Dolmades and Tzatziki. Dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with rice and spices. Tzatziki is a greek yogurt with cucumbers, fresh garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Together, these dishes were delectable.
Once I finished my appetizers, I ordered my main course. I ordered the chicken parmesan. With the main course, I recieved a side salad. By the time the main course got to the table, I had already had a complete meal with the appetizer and side salad. I could hardly believe the amount of food I recieved with my main course. There were two chicken breasts with spaghetti underneath a layer of melted cheese. My dinner alone could feed three people. The chicken parmesan was delicious. About halfway through my main course, I was full. When the bill came I was fairly surprised with how inexpensive everything was. My bill before tip came out to be $13.50.
I asked my waiter, Mimi, how long the restaurant had been open. "For about 4 years or so," she said. "We love to see the college students come in, because they are never hungry when they leave." The restaurant is located at 7729 24th Ave NW. It is only few blocks north of NW Market Street which runs right though downtown Ballard. Most of the main courses at Soprano's cost around $10 dollars. The restaurant is open everyday 10a.m. to 10p.m. Their phone number is 206-789-4446. Multibene!