I had forgotten about Cleopatra’s Cafe on Zafrano Drive. It has been ages since I last ate there. Since I wanted to eat something healthy(no french fries involved), I ended up there. I had read somewhere that if you are a vegetarian, you should get the King Tut plate. Now that sounded impressive. A plate named after a king. Not to worry here is also a plate named after a queen, Cleopatra. The King Tut Plate(12.95) consisted of 4 falafel, 3 dolmas, a good size serving of baba ghanauge, another good size serving of hummus, some pita bread and your choice of either tabbouleh or a Greek salad.
Wow! I’m getting hungry just thinking and writing about this delightful feast. The falafel was incredible. It reminded me of the first time that I ate falafel. A friend said that I should experience Middle Eastern food. She made falafel. This is the benchmark that all other falafel is now compared. Hers was and will continue to be the benchmark of falafel. Ok, now my stomach is growling. Such is the powerful memory of good food. Cleopatra’s Cafe falafel is covered in a delicious sauce. This is a rare treat. Yes, falafel is fried. So much for staying away from fried food. The dolmas were enticing. I am not a big fan, but these were delicious. The grape leaves almost melted in my mouth. The hummus and baba ghanauge certainly did melt in my mouth. I ordered extra pita(.50) so I could scoop up all that deliciousness. I had the tabbouleh as my choice. I ordered a large Greek Salad(7.50) because I am always on the look out for a good salad.
This subtle combination of Bulgur wheat, cucumber, onion, tomato, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil was incredible. And yes, there were two Kalamata Olives to top off this takeout container of pure deliciousness. It tasted as good as it looked. The flavors came together and really exploded in your mouth. I was blown away. I love this food!
This Greek Salad had Romaine lettuce, green onions, tiny chopped pieces of tomato, some feta cheese, Kalamata olives with a tangy dressing. What beautiful food! I just love how colorful it is.
I added some of my own ingredients to this delicious salad like some home grown lettuce, more kalamata olives, and some feta cheese. All items I have in the refrigerator.
Cleopatra’s Cafe is located at 3482 Zafrano Drive. there is also a Cleopatra’s Cafe at 418 Cerrillos.
The Cleopatra’s Cafe on Zafrano is open Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm and Sunday 11:30am-9pm.
Their phone number is 505.474.5644
Santa Fe City Different Foodie 