Zorbas Taverna is a basic Greek-style restaurant, good but basic food served in a relaxed, if some what retro and slightly tatty setting. Families are welcomed and the place has a real friendly feeling to it, but the owner is soon looking to retire.

The Venue
Located on Cotham Hill just off Whiteladies Road in central Bristol, Zorba Taverna is tucked away from the main footfall. The restaurant is a little old-fashioned and the furniture and finishings are a little tatty.

The walls inside are painted with a sea themed mural and the wooden floor is a little uneven. There is an old-fashioned wooden drinks bar in the corner.

The People
Zorbas Taverna has a real family feel about it. The proprietor heads up the service team, he is an elderly Greek gentleman who is very friendly but he is now hoping to retire so the future of the restaurant is uncertain.

He appears to run much of front of house on his own so this can effect the speed of your service. The furnishing is dated and slightly shabby but the restaurant is always busy and this adds to the family buzz of the place.

The Food
The food is of a good standard - it is basic home-style Greek cooking without any frills. Starters include the usual Greek fare - dips (hummus, tzatziki and taramasalata) with pitta, grilled halloumi cheese or stuffed vine leaves. Expect to pay between £3 and £5 per starter.

Main courses are Greek traditional dishes. Choose from chicken souvlaki (kebab) cooked on a chargrill, moussaka, stifado or kleftico - all served with a choice of potato and salad. Plain grilled meat dishes are also available. Main dishes are very tasty, if a little basic, but the food is good quality and no frills. Costs of main meals vary - but as a guide expect to pay between £7 and £12.

Mixed meze is also available, but seems to often be off the menu. Many dishes appear to run out towards the end of the evening, so try to dine early if you would like to retain full choice of the menu.

A few desserts are available - Greek yogurt and honey is on the menu, as is sorbet and dessert specials. The desserts are very mediocre and do not look of taste homemade. These cost about £3.25 to £3.95 per portion.

The Drink
The drinks choice is extensive for those who are looking for an alcoholic beverage. House wine (which is Greek!) is available by the glass and bottle (a bottle will set you back about a tenner), draught and bottled beer, and a wide choice of spirits.

The selection is more limited for those sticking to soft drinks however, with the choice being Coke, Diet Coke, lemonade or fruit juice. Coffee is also available for £1.25, and is a perfect way to round off your meal.

The Last Word
Zorbas Taverna is a great place to take the family or meet friends for a no-frills Greek meal out at very reasonable prices. It's also got a touch of the 'holiday' feel about it, so a good place to go if you are wanting to reminisce or relive Greek holiday meals out.

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