Glorious sunshine, stunning beaches, and delicious food – it seems cruel to reminisce of holidays gone by now that schools have returned and the nights are already drawing in.
But the prospect of a taste of Greece right here in Manchester – and with a special promotion to celebrate the release of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 – offered a chance to live out a few more days of summer.
And while it certainly can’t compare to some of the restaurants of Corfu – where the film is set – the promotion was enjoyable, if somewhat limited in choice.
Set in the bustling Corn Exchange, The Real Greek is located in the heart of Manchester. With beautiful interior décor, including fairy lights and flowers draped up the spiral stairs, there was a warm, calm atmosphere to the restaurant.
The promotion itself was for a ‘Big Fat Greek Plate’ – £35 for a sharing platter recommended for two of lamb skewers, Loukaniko beef and pork Greek sausages, pork, chicken skewers, chicken wings, lamb meatballs, and chips. This was accompanied by a ‘Big Fat Greek sunset cocktail’ for £8.50 and a ‘Virgin Bouquet’ mocktail for £5.95.
Both drinks were fantastic. The apple mocktail with hints of elderflower and lemon was crisp and clean, while the cocktail was sweet and tangy.
Yet, with such an extensive menu – offering plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and meat options – it was perhaps surprising to see the food promotion confined to a single meat platter. Sure, it was nice enough – the sausage and chicken wings were particular highlights.
But overall, it felt that the potential of the promotion was somewhat missed.
The glorious fresh produce, Mediterranean vegetables and hummus for which Greece is known for were sorely missed from a platter which otherwise felt very beige and heavy.
Particularly for anyone with dietary requirements – vegetarians, vegans or those observing kosher or halal – the promotion would be difficult to take advantage of.
Overall, great staff and a warm, welcoming restaurant make The Real Greek a place worth checking out, even if only to explore the other dishes on offer.
The promotion runs until Sunday September 24 at the restaurant’s Corn Exchange and Trafford Centre locations.
