Athens dining at its best

by Chris Congeni
FOR THE POST

One might be skeptical of Lui Lui Restaurant, 8 Station St., because of its eclectic menu and lack of visibility in the center of town. But the first thing that catches the eye is the motto at the top of the menu: "Here at Lui Lui Restaurant we have tried to offer a variety of dishes so that everyone's tastes can be satisfied."

This motto is without a doubt accurate.

Offering appetizers such as coconut shrimp, chicken tikka and a seafood wrap, Lui Lui executes its unique variety well. The artichoke and spinach crustini was selected as an appetizer. It basically consisted of an artichoke and cheese spread over hot-baked Italian bread and it was marvelous.

By the time lips are smiling from the appetizer, it is time to indulge in an entrée, especially for those tired of the mainstream sub and burger joints Uptown. Some of these diverse dishes include flounder, Thai beef pasta and roast duck.

Although the chosen Teriyaki chicken and fresh vegetables were great, the variety of pizzas at Lui Lui is remarkable. When is the last time you had the chance to get a margarita pizza or request more asiago and mozzarella on the usual boring pie?

A fellow diner ordered the artichoke pizza. It might sound like a strange combination, but Lui Lui prepared the pizza wonderfully.

The most enjoyable part of this dining experience was the hospitality shown by each employee - greetings with a smile at the door and five-star service at the table. Servers even allow customers to sample their food in order to measure whether or not it's up to par. In short, there is a genuine desire to please guests.

For spicy food lovers, Lui Lui hits the jackpot, too. Customers are able to have hot spices added to all dishes for no extra charge. The chef is also willing to make and even create dishes for those picky at heart.

Now is time for the part of the review all students are scanning the article for - price. The prices at Lui Lui are affordable, at least for one of the best dining experiences in Athens. An appetizer, two entrees and drinks amounted to $21, but sometimes price is the main deciding factor for a good meal. With more than half of the dishes below $10, Lui Lui is an ideal spot for dining with friends or taking out that special someone.

It is genuinely refreshing to go to a quality restaurant in Athens that treats patrons like paying customers and not just another student. Unlike the local McDonald's, Lui Lui employees really do love to see you smile.