Sheri Dettman (Left) & Koutouki Family Member Dina
We Go Greek In Palm Desert’s Newest Restaurant
My husband Bill and I had been looking forward to the newest restaurant on the scene in Palm Desert. Located at the somewhat historic site of the former Sasspers and Sense Restaurants you’ll discover the new Koutouki Taverna.
Koutouki Taverna in Palm Desert is the first restaurant in the US from a Canadian family that has owned and run 26 Greek restaurants over a long career in the Edmonton, Alberta area.
Looking Forward To The Grand Opening
Bill and I had been looking forward to the Taverna’s opening as we’d seen construction going on for a few months as we drove by on Highway 111. This location was also the original location of Ormi & Boni’s Restaurant before they moved to La Quinta (now rumored to soon to become a Denny’s–and more on that later).
Opening just four weeks ago, the whole family is involved from the daughter, Dina, who greets you at the door (pictured with me), to Chris, her husband who is the chef. The night we were there we also met mom and shared an after dinner drink with papa.
The Tasting Menu For Us
Since this was our first visit to Koutouki, our server suggested we try the Koutouki Meze, which is a pretty broad tasting menu. The first course featured five dips, and olives served with warm pita bread– my favorite was the Kopanisti, which is Feta, roasted jalapenos, and mint. Bill enjoyed the Tzatziki made of Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic.
Next up was Keftedes. These are house-made, pan fried beef meatballs followed by grilled chicken. Then, Dolmades, the traditional grape leaves stuffed with ground beef, rice and tzatziki, and then Spanakopita with spinach, feta, mint and dill. Yum!
The Main Course Arrives
As if that wasn’t enough, the main course of Arni Kleftiko soon arrived. This slow roasted lamb was falling off the bone, and the lemon-roasted potatoes were the perfect compliment. We were offered desserts, but we’d already hit our limit.
For now, Koutouki is only serving beer (Bira) and wine. They do have a nice selection of wine. Our server offered us a taste of several we were interested in before making our wine choice.
The last time we peeked in the restaurant was full, so reservations are suggested.
Koutouki Taverna is also open for lunch featuring a mouthwatering selection of Buns, Wraps, and Gyros. Koutouki Taverna: 73675 Highway 111 in Palm Desert. (760) 834-8221.