Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Sample Circuit - Santorini Eden Prairie

The sun was shining over the new Santorini Taverna in Eden Prairie this past Wednesday, offering the perfect setting for noshing tasty Greek food. The recently relocated restaurant delivered on ambiance, preparing attendees for the Mediterranean experience. Everyone felt that they had just traveled to Greece.

Grecian Burgers
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography


Guests entered through the Taverna, greeted first by the Leinenkugel’s beer station, beside a generous food station featuring the very popular Grecian Burgers.There was room inside to explore or guests could grab a bite and made their way out to the glorious patio, complete with a glistening fountain.

I began with a few of the divine appetizers, Maryland Crab Cakes with sweet Chipotle Aioli, Spicy Feta, Tahini Hummous, Kalamata & Goat Cheese spreads, Pastichio en phyllo, and Mediterranean pizza a favorite of the group. In my opinion, the Gyros were the best, a traditional Mediterranean favorite executed perfectly utilizing the amazing fresh local produce from right here in the land of 10,000 lakes.

Maryland Crab Cakes with Chipotle Aioli
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Some other traditional favorites enjoyed were Lamb and Beef Moussaka, Spanikopita(tasty morsels of spinach and feta wrapped in a crispy and light phyllo shell), chicken and Shrimp Souvlake, and Dolmades. All of the flavors complemented each other and made for a delectably savory experience.

Spanikopita
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Last but definitely not least, the miniature cheese cakes were lovely, along with the traditional Baklava to close out the meal. Offered in bite size portions, guests could choose between them- or just have both!

Miniature Cheesecakes & Baklava
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

Ketel One and the mixologist at Santorini combined their talents and offered a fantastic light and sweet Ginger Peach Cosmo. Once again, Z Wines brought us perfectly paired wines that enhanced the experience. I always learn so much from them, they are truly experts in the art of food and wine pairing!

Dianne from Z Wines USA discussing wine pairings with Sample Circuit attendees
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

The Ketel One Ginger Peach Cosmo
photo by Chris Bohnhoff Photography

All in all, the event gave all that attended an opportunity to explore the newly relocated Santorini Taverna and taste a delightful mix of Mediterranean meets Midwest.



-Jessica Geiselhart

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