If you’re looking for a quick Mediterranean meal, stop by Grape Leaf Mediterranean in Tustin where everything is cooked-to-order. A fast casual spot, you order at the counter, pick a seat and wait for your food to arrive within 15 minutes or so.
We tried the Lentil Soup ($3.99/8oz $5.99/16oz) a flavorful bowl dotted with bits of lentil, which I would order again!
Appetizer Sampler ($12.99) is perfect to share with the table. The plate consists of dolma, koftesi, spanakopita, babaghanoush, hummus, kefir mushroom, and falafel, served with grilled pita. I especially loved the babaghanoush and kefir mushroom.
Loaded Cheese Fire Feta Fries ($8.99 ) is a “secret” menu item which is not listed on the menu, but diners may ask for it when they order. The dish may be served with fries or chips and is topped with Grape Leaf’s signature fire feta dip, smashed falafels, chunks of tri tip and kefir cheese.
I’m a huge fan of Tabouli ($7.99) a Middle Eastern salad comprised of parsley, cracked wheat (or bulgur wheat), scallions, and tomatoes tossed in a lemon and olive oil dressing. Unfortunately, there wasn’t any bulgur wheat in this tabouli (even though it is listed as one of the ingredients in the dish) but the flavor was spot on even though it was definitely missing the nutty textures of the bulgur, and it was a heaping portion as well.
Kafta Kabob Pita ($6.99) is served with tahini and comes with a side of mixed greens. The kabob is flavorful and not the least bit dry. Solid offering if you are a meat fan.
Alexander ($14.99) is a dish of either tri tip or chicken shawarma on top of pita, and topped with tomato butter sauce, served with tzatziki and basmati rice. I tried both versions, and definitely enjoyed the tri tip a little better than the chicken, which was on the dry side.
Make sure you order a side of pita chips to munch on. These crispy squares are so addicting and makes for a great vehicle to scoop up the many dips on the menu.
Grape Leaf is a great little place to grab a quick bite. The space is not intended for large groups, but is able to accommodate groups of eight to ten comfortably.
Grape Leaf Mediterranean
17582 17th St
Tustin, CA 92780
Tel: 714-544-1900
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