First Look: Kafenio, College Park


DINING OUT

7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.

Small plates, $4.99-$8.49; salads, $5.99-$8.99; sandwiches and wraps, $7.49-$9.49; sides, $2.49-$3.49.

3387 Main St., College Park, 470-823-4929, kafenio3387.com.

Described as an “all day Greek cafe,” Kafenio opened in July in downtown College Park, serving coffee, breakfast all day, salads, wraps and desserts. Owner Johnny Gianoulidis, who also owns Park Grounds coffee shop in Reynoldstown, is a former co-owner of Pallookaville Fine Foods in Avondale Estates.

The look: The historic Main Street storefront was formerly home to Our Place Bakery/Cafe. Gianoulidis gutted and remodeled the interior to create an open, airy space with vintage wood floors and a variety of seating options, from cozy sofas to tables for large and small groups. Out front, umbrella tables make for an inviting sidewalk cafe scene.

The scene: One recent Saturday morning, the line to the order counter stayed steady but the dining room wasn't too crowded, with friendly groups of neighbors meeting over breakfast or grabbing coffee and pastries to go.

The food: The all-day breakfast menu features Greek diner-style three-egg omelets ($7.99-$9.29), such as the Atalanta with spinach, tomato, onion and bell pepper, served with hash browns or grits and pita bread or a biscuit. On the lunch and dinner menu, small plates ($4.99-$8.49) such as spanakopita and kefte meatballs join sandwiches and pita wraps ($7.49-$9.49), including a classic gyro with feta spread and tzatziki and falafel with tahini, served with fries, orzo salad or Greek slaw.

The drinks: On the beverage menu, find coffee and espresso drinks ($1.79-$3.99), fountain sodas, iced tea and fresh-squeezed juices ($2.29-$2.79). There's beer and wine by the glass, bottle or can ($3-$32), including local craft and Greek selections.

The extras: The bakery case near the order counter tempts with Greek pastries, pies, cakes and cookies for dessert, and muffins and bagels at breakfast.