This little Greek and Armenian restaurant contains selections from both cuisines, though probably mostly Armenian: while there's no spanakopita, moussaka, pastitsio, or other signature Greek dishes, there are numerous kebabs.
The City of Glendale probably has more Armenians than any city outside of Armenia -- somewhere in the vicinity of 65,000 or more. During my numerous visits, I've seen that approximately half of the dinner business is take-out, mostly by locals.
Dishes are available to suit most tastes, including a number of vegetarian selections, including stuffed eggplant, stuffed grape leaves (ask for the vegetarian option), falafel, tabouli, lentil soup, hummus, moutabal (eggplant dip), and the various salads. For carnivores like me, the chicken, lamb, and beef are superb. I have not yet tried the salmon or quail.
Service by owners Onik and Virginia (and their staff) is friendly, and the piped in music consists almost exclusively of Greek male vocalists. There is a single unisex rest room located off a backyard patio. Elena's does not have a beer, wine, or liquor license. Free delivery is available within three miles of the restaurant.
"I also had Greek salad, pickled cabbage, and pita bread."
James Paris
"Lemony accents which I have been unable to reproduce in my own cooking make this a soup to remember -- and it's included as part of your entree at your request."
James Paris
"Also included were lentil soup, pickled cabbage, and pita bread. Note the fire-roasted chile on the plate. "
James Paris
"Located at 1000 S. Glendale Blvd (corner of Acacia)
Hours Mon-Sat 11 am - 9:30 pm Closed Sundays"
James Paris
"This is one place that seems to cater almost exclusively to locals."
James Paris
