Olive Branch - redux

The Olive Branch, South Side Bethlehem
Dinner, Saturday, September 3.

My wife and I joined friends for another wonderful experience at The Olive Branch. Saturday evening traffic was steady at the small restaurant, but not overcrowded. We started with pie appetizer sampler (spinach, meat, feta), all of which were outstanding. Oh, and some grape leaves, served warm and made fresh. (One of our guests, a Greek, attested that they are among the best he's eaten.) For an entree, I opted for a baked fish with a light tahini/onion topping. The fillet was toothsome and meaty, and the sauce did not overpower the fish at all. My wife ordered the falafel -- again, perfectly browned on the outside, nicely grainy and rich inside. For dessert, the macadamia/cream torte was light and luscious. I cannot speak highly enough of the Turkish coffee served here. I had three demitasse cups and pondered a fourth, which would have kept me awake until Monday.