Mediterranean Bistro opened its doors six weeks ago on Cherokee Street and began offering mouth-watering food and fast, friendly service.

Structured as a walk-up service, the restaurant displays a neat, dainty layout that provides an open feel. It offers an authentic cuisine, from gyro wraps and shish kebabs to baklava and lady fingers.

I ordered the falafel plate, which included four spice-infused chickpea patties, hummus, pasta salad, and pita bread. While the food oozed with flavors and appetizing textures, the portions were a bit small for $8.95. Also, I was not fond of the provided styrofoam plates and utensils for dine-in customers, which did not look as visually appealing as paper or plastic would have been.

“The food was really good. I enjoyed my chicken gyro wrap, which came with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and tahini sauce,” said senior Solomon Fortune. “I just wish there was more of it.”

Mediterranean Bistro impressed me with its generous staff, who remained willing to change my order when I asked. They also let me substitute tahini sauce (a sesame seed paste) for tzatziki sauce (seasoned yogurt). The tzatziki sauce, added a significant amount of points to my score. The service was also fast; I waited no longer than five minutes.

“It’s a really nice local business. It’s something different because you can’t really find Mediterranean food in the area,” said senior Shanna Salcedo.

Quickly making its way as a unique hang-out spot, Mediterranean Bistro stands as a  cultural gem in the city of Kennesaw.

The Chant’s grade: B+