We introduced our children to restaurant dining at an early age and now we enjoy doing the same with our grandchildren. Generally, family restaurants do the best job with accommodating kids. With research I knew that the Spiridakos family owned Olympia Diner (3253 Portage Ave.) so I thought we had gone to the right place.

Our cheerful waitress immediately grabbed the crayons and a colouring sheet so we were off to a good (read: peaceful) start. There was not a children’s section to the menu but we spied chicken fingers and fries and knew we would be able to appease both granddaughters. Glamma and Poppa had tastes of those chicken fingers and we were very impressed. A kid’s cup of chocolate milk was immediately delivered so we could determine and make the rest of our selections.

I must admit that I was disappointed that they were out of moussakka but as pastia was pretty close with its béchamel topping, I was content. Truth be told, most of the pasta casserole went home with us as I filled up on Greek French fries. Imagine a Greek version of poutine with oregano liberally sprinkled onto freshly cut fries along with lots of crumbled feta.

My husband chose a Greek Salad and we learned the difference between Greek salad which includes lettuce and a village or peasant salad which does not. The garlic toast was enjoyed by our youngest granddaughter along with her favourite dish-the ice from Poppa’s glass.

Even though we arrived before noon the diner was busy with patrons. Perhaps they too were drawn to wholesome Greek cooking or the distinctive Grecian blue décor.

The Olympia Diner is open Tuesday – Sunday at 11 am. They close Sunday-Thursday at 9 pm and Friday-Saturday at 10 pm. There are separate lunch and dinner menus available.  The diner is not wheelchair accessible from front door.

Watch for Food Musings every second Wednesday in your copy of The Headliner, The Herald, The Lance, The Metro, The Sou’wester and The Times.

Kath’s quote: “Eat and drink with your relatives; do business with strangers“.-Greek Proverb

Love never fails.

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