With a new year come the mandatory “new year resolutions”. Many people have the same resolution year after year- and that is to lose weight. After a certain number of years making the same resolution but miserably failing, many of us have to resort to different and more realistic resolutions that might eventually result in some sort of weight loss- and that is, to eat healthier. Even though it’s rather difficult to shy away from the delicacies Mickey D’s, Jack, Carl, and a lovely Chihuahua have to offer, it doesn’t help our lonjas… and even if you think you’re eating healthy by visiting Jared’s sub joint, you’ll be surprised at the amount of calories per sandwich. So what to eat when you want something scrumptious yet healthy? Fret no more and head over to “Soumarelo”.
Greek food in the SGV
“Soumarelo” is a small hole-in-the-wall that specializes in rotisserie chicken and Greek food. Now, chicken might seem overrated by now and sure there are a gazillion places that know how to make some good chicken, but trust me on this one, there’s no place like “Soumarelo”.
Especially if you’re on a budget (and now, who isn’t these days?!), you’ll immediately fall in love with their prices.
For less than $10 bucks you can get a whole chicken (yes! a whole chicken!!!), rice pilaf, pita, garlic paste and sweet chili sauce. It could easily feed 2 or 4, depending on how much you eat and how starved you and your buddies are.
The chicken at “Soumarelo” is not bad at all, especially considering the price. It’s perfectly cooked, moist, tender and neatly cut, a big plus on the crispy and brown chicken skin. Overall the chicken at this joint is good… not too distinct, but good nonetheless.
Vast menu
Rotisserie chicken is not the only thing served at “Soumarelo”. You’ll find lots of options to choose from: schwarmas, falafels, kabobs, salads, sandwiches, and a couple other delicacies.
The beef platter with eggplant salad is one of those dishes you have to try. It comes with Ja-jek, a yogurt cucumber sauce como para chuparse los dedos.
If you want something to snack on in between entrees, order up some “kufta”, which consists of two fried meatballs- not the healthiest item on the menu, but definitely worth the extra calories.
Now, if you’re craving something else a little more flavorful and still healthy but not healthy enough to make you feel you’re eating healthy food, then order up some gyros.
Gyros are the Greek take on tacos al pastor but with pita instead of tortilla and with different seasonings and toppings. The gyros at “Soumarelo” are not only tasty but come with hummus, salad, and of course garlic paste.
For the most part, garlic is not our friend for obvious reasons, especially if we happen to have a significant other. However, the garlic paste at “Soumarelo” is so outstanding you wouldn’t mind garlic breath for a minute.
Even though “Soumarelo” is tucked away in Pasadena and it might be a long drive to the SGV for many of us, the trip is worth the traffic drama. Plus, the service is fantastic- there’s a cozy, friendly and welcoming environment at “Soumarelo”.
Soumarelo1090 N Allen
Pasadena, CA 91104
626.791.0999
