"As a fan of Greek cuisine who has traveled to Greece a few times, I have a good sense of how it should taste. Here’s my breakdown of the food:
1. The Gyros were incredible! After years of dining at Daphne's (which I consider the fast-food equivalent of Greek food), I had lowered my expectations. But the Gyros at the Original Mad Greek are mind-blowingly authentic!
2. I’ve never tasted better chicken at any fast-food restaurant (excluding KFC— a guilty pleasure of mine).
3. They offer a unique Gyro/Taco fusion called El Greco’s. The owner (whose name escapes me) suggested I try it, and it blew my mind! The taco features gyro meat, lettuce, tzatziki, a fried zucchini stick, and is topped with hot sauce. I ended up ordering three more to enjoy in the car. It’s genuinely one of the best things I’ve ever eaten!
4. Finally, I found a place that knows how to make a Greek salad right. Just tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta. Simple and delicious.
5. They also serve Kalimaki sticks, which I discovered from a Greek friend a decade ago. These small, marinated pieces of meat on skewers are perfect for soaking up drinks after a night out in Athens, served with warm pita bread—simple but full of flavor and addictive!
6. Speaking of pita bread… this is, without a doubt, the best pita I’ve ever had in the USA. Whether homemade or imported, it’s authentically crispy, pliable, and flavorful on the outside with a fluffy inside. I plan to ask the owner if I can buy some to take home next time.
7. It’s incredibly affordable. I felt like telling the owner he must be crazy to charge such low prices, but I appreciate a good deal, so I kept quiet! Living in LA, I'd probably pay double what I’m paying here. Don’t worry, fellow food lovers— the owner seems oblivious to Yelp, so I doubt he’ll raise his prices anytime soon!
By the way, I noticed everyone raving about the hummus in other reviews, but I can’t comment on that since I dislike hummus; however, I’m sure it’s great. The menu is extensive with plenty of American options like burgers— I bet those are good too!
As for the restaurant atmosphere, on my first visit, the building seemed in need of a fresh coat of paint. On my second visit, I was thrilled to see it had received a crisp white makeover—what a difference! They had also started to change the sign. The owner mentioned some light remodeling is in progress (which is definitely needed, although I hope it doesn’t lose its charming character).
The best aspect of the Original Mad Greek, aside from the food, is the patio. It’s the only spot within a five-mile radius where you’d actually want to eat outside! The wrought iron tables and chairs are comfortable and attractive. The grapevine canopy provides shade, and you’re surrounded by fragrant plants like rosemary, basil, and oregano, with a lovely fountain in the center that drowns out the noise from Beach Blvd. It’s an oasis! They also serve beer and wine, and if you’re inclined to smoke, you can (though you might be the only one here since it’s Orange County).
I used to dislike coming to this area, but now the Original Mad Greek has become a delightful guilty pleasure.
**Pros:**
- Amazing food
- Unbeatable prices
- Beautiful patio
- Beer and wine available
- Happy hour
- Free Wi-Fi
- Friendly staff
- Ample free parking
**Cons:**
- The interior feels a bit dated, but it’s spotlessly clean (the owner plans to update it soon).
- I wish they offered those little fried Greek donut balls drizzled with honey!
Note: This is the Original Mad Greek; it doesn’t seem to be affiliated with the one in Baker, and in my opinion, the food here is far superior!"
