Greek Promotion, Eccucino, Prince Hotel and Residence, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Words by Manveen Maan

Photos by The Yum List (Monica Tindall)

Despite sounding like a call to join an American college fraternity, the Greek Festival is actually the best way to sink your teeth into some authentic Greek cuisine this side of Athens. 

Held at Eccucino in Prince Hotel and Residence, the festival returns to Malaysian shores, headed by Greek guest chefs, Chef George Diakomichalis and Chef Kalliopi Diakomichalis. Running nightly from 10 to 23 March 2014, the feast is priced at RM98++ per person (with kids under 12 dining for free with every paying adult), and features dishes made from Chef George’s family recipes, which have been handed down over generations.

Now in its third year, Chef George is bringing something new to the table. As Greek food is traditionally enjoyed in large groups of family and friends, the festival sees Chef George hosting a special ‘Chef’s Table’ session every night for those after a true authentic Mediterranean lifestyle experience. Diners at the ‘Chef’s Table’ will also get to enjoy a personal tour of Greek food, and cultural stories. There is no extra cost to be seated at the ‘Chef’s Table’ however seats are limited to ensure that diners can truly enjoy the experience. 

The Appetizer list is both extensive and diverse, with a selection of olives on the cards (Kalamata Olives, Green Olives Stuffed With Red Pepper, and Green Olives Stuffed With Garlic) as well as delish marinated feta cheese, creamy tzatziki, and a pepper feta cheese dip that definitely has a kick to it!

My all-time favourite Greek food, dolmades aka stuffed vine leaves, also make an appearance (much to my delight), with that other Greek favourite Spanakopita (baked spinach and feta filo pastries). If that isn’t enough to fill your tummy, gorge on freshly baked pita breads, served alongside a selection of gourmet Greek olive oils. 

Soup may seem like a strange choice in the sweltering temperatures of the country, but the Fasolatha (or white bean soup) has a light, tomato base that balances out the heavier textures of the white bean itself. 

Meat features heavily (no pun intended) in the mains, with a choice of grilled beef, lamb and chicken Souvlaki (skewers served with roasted capsicum and onions). My favourite was the lamb – as clichéd as it sounds, they’re grilled to perfection! My highlight was the Gemista, which are vegetables stuffed with rice and spices. The smoky flavours from the barbecue add a whole new level to this particular dish.

Dessert tops my list of awesomeness, as the baklava is to die for. Flaky, creamy, and dripping with honey, it’s like a slice of heaven in your mouth. If you’re on a diet, you may need to make an exception for this baby. 

Reason to visit: To sample delicious authentic Greek food, in a relaxed environment

The Greek Festival runs March 10 – 21, 2014.