Simpatico Ristorante, Vancouver

One whiff of the aroma from this kitchen is enough to transport diners from the West Coast's rainy winter streets to the Greek Isles' sunny shorelines. This large Kitsilano restaurant has two dining floors, greenery and pictures of Greeks in traditional costumes. The blue-on-blue chequered tablecloths add a touch more of the Mediterranean. Start with the hummus and pita appetizer, then move on to the lamb souvlaki or moussaka for an entree. Retsina is the beverage of choice here. Finish it all off with honeyed Baklava.