By Stephanie Robb
Winter is officially on the way out and we are arriving at a season most restaurant goers look forward to, sitting outside, taking in the atmosphere accompanied by a great meal, and Proton Kalamaki offers exactly that. It almost feels as if you have stepped out of Limassol and into a little shop in the centre of Athens.
Located in the Old Castle square, the Proton Kalamaki offers an ideal graphic setting with the ability to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city without being overwhelmed by it. The specialty of the restaurant, which is hidden in the name itself, relies on the art of the greek souvlaki and an art that they do very well. Nevertheless do not despair as souvlaki is not the only option on the menu.
For starters, head for something Greek – the traditional Cretan ntakos and the saganaki, both well known dishes distinguished by their sublime use of feta cheese. The ntakos are made with rusks, sprinkled with fragrant olive oil, dipped in freshly diced tomato, oregano and lots of feta. The combination might seem simple, yet at times it’s the simplest of things that are the hardest to get right. Known for their hardness, the rusks acquire an incredible texture and taste once combined with the other ingredients. The saganaki, another Greek cuisine staple, is made with fresh tomato, green pepper, virgin olive oil, oregano and feta cheese, wrapped in aluminum foil and cooked on the grill. To those who are true feta lovers the saganaki here is made incredibly. Village salads and assorted dips like tzatziki and tirokafteri, all homemade, are also available.
Moving on to the main menu, the variety that should be expected is dishes made on charcoal grill. You can order pork or chicken souvlaki, both cooked to perfection as they are never overcooked and never become dry. The simplicity of the spices, without having a predominant taste, allows you to enjoy the meat in all its glory. The village souvlaki offers the same, simply cooked meat and is simply delicious. Another great option is the pork fillet – soft pork tenderloin marinated with spices and herbs that is not only affordable but quite filling as well, making it a challenge to some. The meat was soft and melted in your mouth leaving a great aftertaste.
If you are in a large group your best option to enjoy a little taste of everything, is the King Richard’s combination. The combination includes two kalamakia (wooden straws) of pork, two of chicken, two pork burgers, one kalamaki of halloumi, two of mushroom, pieces of chicken of the King and of course, fresh fried potatoes. This plentiful combination allows you to experience an element of the Greek meze and take time to truly enjoy all that Proton Kalamaki has to offer.
As a desert the restaurant offers homemade galatoboureko, which is arguably among the best in Limassol and baklava.
My only negative comment is that I found the fries that accompanied the food rather undercooked. Overall, Proton Kalamari offers a quite genuine experience of Greek cuisine in Limassol.
VITAL STATISTICS
SPECIALTY Greek grilled food
WHERE To Proton Kalamaki, 16 Tsanakale Street, Castle Road, Limassol
CONTACT 25 351919
PRICE single kalamakia from €1.90, King Richard’s combination (for two) €19
