Greek food at its best!

When we first arrived at Mezzeluna Greek Restaurant in Cotati, we were a little surprised by the bustling crowd and the recommendation for reservations. It was a Friday night, and the energy was palpable. We were told there would be about a 30-minute wait, which initially felt a bit long, but the cozy atmosphere and the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen quickly made us feel right at home. We snagged a spot at the bar for a quick drink, soaking in the lively chatter and anticipation. Once seated, the service was wonderfully attentive, making up for the initial wait. Our server was fantastic, guiding us through the menu and sharing some personal favorites. We started with the Trio of Spreads, which truly set the tone for the meal. The OCR mentioned '3 Courses Of GREEK CUISINE,' and these spreads felt like a course in themselves! We had hummus, a creamy white dip that tasted like a garlicky feta whip, and another vibrant red option, all served with warm, fluffy pita bread. Each one offered a unique flavor profile, making it hard to pick a favorite. Next up was the Avgolemono soup. Oh my goodness, this soup! It was exactly as described – tangy, comforting, and packed with flavor. The chicken lemon rice combination was perfect, and you could see the delicate oil droplets on top, hinting at its richness. It was like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for whetting our appetites further. For our main dishes, we really dove into the heart of Greek cuisine. My friend ordered the Lamb Shank, which truly was fall-off-the-bone tender. It came beautifully plated on a bed of mashed potatoes, surrounded by roasted zucchini and carrots, and topped with fresh microgreens. The meat just melted in your mouth. Another friend chose the Pork Chops, which were surprisingly elevated with a sweet and tangy cherry reduction sauce, artistically drizzled with green oil accents – a true feast for the eyes and the palate. The grilled Medi Salmon was another highlight, served perfectly flaky with a side of white beans, a scoop of mashed potatoes, and a fresh lemon wedge, again, adorned with those lovely microgreens. But for me, the star of the show was the Pastitsio. It’s often called Greek lasagna, but it’s so much more intricate and satisfying. The layers of pasta, seasoned ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce were baked to perfection, creating a dish that was both hearty and comforting. It arrived as a beautiful slice, topped with shredded cheese and more fresh microgreens, showcasing the chef's attention to detail. Considering the array of starters, soups, and generous main courses we enjoyed, the OCR mentioned a 'total cost of $181.50.' For four people indulging in such high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes, I honestly felt it was very reasonable. The portion sizes were substantial, and the overall experience felt like a special occasion. If you find yourself in the Santa Rosa area, or even specifically looking for a fantastic Greek restaurant in Cotati, Mezzeluna is an absolute must-visit. I can see why reservations are recommended – it’s a popular spot for a reason! Every dish is crafted with care, and the flavors are authentic and memorable. Whether you're a fan of traditional Greek fare or looking to try something new, I wholeheartedly recommend Mezzeluna. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary journey. I'm already planning my next visit to try even more from their menu!