Check it Out: Zorba's Cafe

You have to admit, living in the District on a budget is not the easiest thing to do and at time can even feel utterly impossible. With all of the fabulous gourmet restaurants serving up all the finest dishes their James Beard award-winning chefs can divvy up, it can be hard to find a restaurant that will serve up a hot plate of deliciousness that won't leave your wallet dumbfounded, wondering what just hit it. However, tucked away throughout this city are a number of gems offering great food at reasonable prices. This week, the Dupont gem that is Zorba's Café.

Maybe it's just me, but between the tall blue and white building and the Greek melodies that play on outside speakers that hypnotize and conjure up nostalgia of munching on pita smothered with tzatziki, I just plain can't resist Zorba's Café. And based on observation, I am not the only one who gets lured in. Located about a block and a half North of Dupont Circle on 20th Street at Connecticut Ave., Zorba's is a no-fuss, quick service, get there early so you have a place to sit, kind of place. Don't hold it against the cooks whose native language is definitely Spanish, not Greek; they really know what they are doing. Having been there several times, I have always favored their superb Yero (also known as Gyro) Sandwich for $7.95(Opt for the sandwich instead of the plate and save $3.55!). There is just something about their light, fluffy, and almost sweet pita bread that induces massive cravings that have me coming back sooner rather than later. Wash it down with a surprisingly not bad Mythos Hellenic Lager Beer for $4.35, and you have just fed yourself an entire meal for under $15!


Cafeteria-style service means feeling like you are back in high school with blue trays AND no tips! BONUS!

Directions to Zorba's Café