Anchorage, a city known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant culture, also boasts a diverse and evolving food scene. Among the many culinary gems in Food Anchorage, Meraki Hellenic Grill stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. While its location might be described as unassuming – nestled in a South Anchorage strip mall – don’t let that deter you. Meraki is a culinary treasure worth discovering, offering an experience that far surpasses its humble setting.
Meraki Hellenic Grill isn’t a newcomer to the Anchorage food scene, although its current brick-and-mortar location is relatively new. The owners cultivated a loyal following in Eagle River before transitioning to a shared kitchen space. Now, with its own dedicated restaurant, Meraki is ready to fully showcase its Eastern Mediterranean specialties. The restaurant’s name, Meraki, embodies its culinary philosophy. Derived from a Greek verb, it signifies “to do something with soul, creativity, or love; to put something of yourself into your work.” This sentiment is palpable from the moment you step inside, greeted by enticing aromas and a glimpse into the kitchen where vertical spits promise mouthwatering meats.
The menu at Meraki is a delightful exploration of Greek cuisine’s most beloved dishes. From grilled octopus to chicken souvlaki, there’s a classic favorite for every palate. Beyond the standard offerings, Meraki keeps things exciting with rotating specials advertised on their social media, featuring dishes like doner kebab, spanakopita, moussaka, and pastitsio – a Greek lasagna that is a personal highlight for many. While dessert might be an afterthought after such generous portions, planning ahead to sample their baklava, kormos, or bougatso (a semolina custard pastry) is highly recommended for a complete Mediterranean food anchorage experience. Currently, the beverage menu features soft drinks, but the promise of soon-to-come wine and beer service adds another layer of appeal to the dining experience.
To begin our culinary journey, we opted for the Mediterranean dips sampler, a generous platter perfect for sharing and experiencing a range of flavors. The tzatziki was a refreshing classic – tangy, bright, and herbaceous. The hummus was exceptionally smooth and nutty, enhanced with cumin and a noticeable garlic kick. However, the standout was the eggplant dip. Its silky, almost buttery texture was so addictive it could be enjoyed by the spoonful. Paired with the warm, hand-stretched pita bread, it was an irresistible start to the meal.
For the main course, wraps were the chosen path, with the pork yerro for one and the haloumi wrap for a vegetarian option. The pork yerro proved to be an exceptional dish. Tender, intensely savory, and expertly seasoned pork, shaved from a vertical rotisserie, was nestled in a pita with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, onion, cool tzatziki, and a handful of thick-cut steak fries. This combination of hot and cold elements, earthy and tangy flavors, and soft and crunchy textures created a truly perfect bite. The haloumi wrap, featuring the firm and meaty cheese, was a satisfying vegetarian alternative, demonstrating Meraki’s commitment to diverse palates within the food anchorage scene. And the inclusion of fries within the wrap? A stroke of genius that should be more widely adopted – adding a delightful potato element to sandwiches. Each wrap also comes with a substantial side salad, a far cry from a token garnish, loaded with fresh spring lettuces, cucumbers, and tomato.
A return visit solidified Meraki’s place as a favorite. This time, the sesame and honey-drizzled haloumi cheese was sampled as an appetizer. While undeniably delicious, its richness might be best shared or enjoyed in moderation to save room for the main courses. To explore more of the menu, the mixed grill was selected, a strategic choice to revisit the excellent pork yerro while sampling new items.
The mixed grill is an impressive platter featuring chicken skewers, lamb kebab, pork yerro, grilled peppers and tomatoes, accompanied by tzatziki and honey Dijon sauce. Priced at $46, it is remarkably generous, easily serving two or even three people. The leftovers were just as enjoyable the next day. The meats and skewers, bursting with flavor, are served atop a bed of those irresistible thinly sliced steak fries. The secret to these fries remains elusive – perhaps the precise cut, the absorption of meat marinades, or a subtle hint of rosemary – but their scrumptiousness is undeniable.
Ultimately, the focus at Meraki Hellenic Grill is on the expertly prepared meats. The vertical spits are key to achieving the perfectly caramelized and crusty exterior that defines each dish. As my dining companion aptly put it, every bite is the “best bite.” For those exploring the food anchorage landscape, Meraki Hellenic Grill is an unmissable destination, offering a genuine taste of the Mediterranean with soul and flavor in every dish.
Restaurant Details:
12870 Old Seward Highway, No. 103
907-217-0435
Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday: 3:30-9 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: noon-9 p.m.
Sunday: noon-7 p.m.
Price: $$-$$$
