ByThe Diversified Diner
MOUNT VERNON – Kosovo immigrant Kujtim (Tim) operates an eclectic restaurant at 1558 Coshocton Avenue, Bombay Garden & Greek Eats, serving Indian and Greek cuisine. The diminutive restaurant is nestled in a lower-level shopping strip close to Staples and a rental store.
Entering the quaint location, I’m greeted by a server. Tim stands in the kitchen prep area looking out through the square pass-through window.
I order one of the May lunch specials – a GYRO (pronounced Yee Row) with lamb as take-out. My mouth waters as I anticipate the seasoned, flaming French fries that accompany the lamb, lettuce, tomato, and onion stuffed wrap. While waiting I chat briefly with Tim and the server. She makes my fountain drink while he slices lamb and assembles my Greek fare. I like the informal, friendly atmosphere.
Another customer strolls in. With a foreign accent, he orders another lunch special. I like this varied cultural mood.
Shortly the server hands me a to-go bag along with my drink. The mixed aroma of fries and Greek spices invade my car. I can’t resist reaching in the bag and munching on a few of the steaming sticks on my drive home. The messier gyro must be eaten at a table with plenty of napkins. Don’t care for lamb? Order your meal with chicken.
Other times I’ve eaten the Indian fare. Curry and Naan bread are always winners. I can order it spiced from a mild 1 to a robust taste bud blowing 15. I usually go with a conservative 4 on the kick ladder.
Vegetarians will enjoy the cheese, nuts, grains, and sauces mingled with veggies in the Greek cuisine. Equally, Naan dipped in hummus is a tasty choice.
Mount Vernon locals, Kenyon students, and even out of towners frequent this curious intermingling of ethnic offerings. Bombay Garden & Greek Eats opens daily at 11:00 A.M.
Atmosphere: 4 Forks
Fare: 4 Forks
Service: 4 Forks
Value: 4 Forks
Overall: 4 Forks
