August 2004

Good design isn't limited to upscale restaurants. Take the Mediterranean Grill, an inexpensive new stop--entrées are $8.95 to $14.95--serving Middle Eastern fare and Italian-style panini and subs in Frederick.

Melding modern design with Mediterranean details, the grill--done in warm shades of rusty red--has tile floors and walls, with copper tables and light fixtures. The restaurant is a collaboration between GTM Architects, a local firm, and Martin-Dudley Studios in Georgia.

The menu includes a long list of hot and cold mezze: tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves, baba ghanoush, falafel, kibbeh, meat and spinach pies, and fava beans with olive oil. There are kebobs of lamb, chicken, and beef and gyro-style pita sandwiches, known as shawerma, filled with marinated meats and tzatziki sauce. Desserts include house-made baklava and tiramisu, and there are fresh-squeezed fruit juices.