Balkan The Greek Restaurant
Over 25 years ago Jason and Joanna Karlos brought authentic Greek flavours and festivity from their home country to Banff. More recently, their sons Stavros and Yanni modernized the menu and décor. The Balkan embraces the philosophy of philoxenia (hospitality) where diners are regarded as honored guests. There are three distinctive dining areas, ‘crumbling’ stone walls and Greek art. Groups appreciate the long table, while the bar offers high tables, counter seats and main street views. Tuesday and Thursday ‘Greek Night’ features belly dancers, ouzo shooters and plate-smashing.
- Lunch: gourmet pitas; Zeus burger; lamb burger, classic sandwiches; Mad Greek sandwich; pulled lamb ciabatta; souvlaki; mousaka; pasticho; donair
- Appetizers: pikilia platter to share; saganaki flambé; lamb lollipops; prawns ouzaki; kalamari; dolmathes; spanakopita; olive and Greek artisan cheese platter
- Rocky Mountain Greek Platter (for two or more): dips, horiatiki salad, appetizers, mains and sides
- Seafood Platter: kalamari, halibut and tiger prawns
- Halibut Spetses: tomato, olive oil and garlic sauce
- Spaghetti: Lemonata with artichokes, chickpeas, spinach, onion, tomatoes, lemon zest and myzythra cheese; Papou’s with chicken in white wine topped with figs, mushrooms and myzythra cheese
- Moussaka: layers of potatoes, eggplant, zucchini and seasoned ground beef topped with béchamel sauce
- Gemista: green peppers stuffed with seasoned beef
- Athenian Chicken: stuffed with spinach and feta, with herbs and zesty tomato sauce
- Souvlaki: chicken, pork, beef, lamb or jumbo prawns
- Greek Lamb Lollipops: lemon and oregano seasoned
- Arni Pisto (House Specialty): Alberta lamb infused with Greek spices and slow roasted for 12 hours
