Bites Nearby: Wild Fig

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Garden City Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here’s this week’s choice:

WILD FIG: The literal definition of a wild fig -- “a strangler tree native to southern Florida and West Indies; begins as an epiphyte eventually developing many thick aerial roots and covering enormous areas in West Indies” – might not whet your appetite or implore you to make a dinner reservation at an establishment of that name. But patrons have found the cuisine at 829 Franklin Avenue to be worth the trip.

Here you can have dishes like Lahmajun, a cheese-less thin crust meat, and mezze platters with hummus and eggplant.

For newcomers who don't know where to start, try the Mezze Platter ($12.99), which allows you to choose from four samplers that include: hummus, sundried tomato hummus, roasted eggplant dip, spicy feta, white bean salad, stuffed grape leaves, tarana spread or shepherd’s salad – served with Wild Fig flat bread.

Signature sandwiches include the Gyro and Falafel Patties and Hummus -- chickpea and herb patties topped with tomato, onion and fresh lettuce tossed in Wild Fig vinaigrette with a spread of hummus. Tahini sauce served on the side, instead of yogurt ($10.99).

There are some delightful entrees including Moussaka ($12.99), featuring baked layers of eggplant, zucchini, potatoes and sautéed minced beef topped with a layer of béchamel ($14.99). Spinach and Feta Flounder ($12.99) is another favorite. The entrees are served with rice pilaf, yogurt sauce and the ubiquitous, and good, Wild Fig flat bread. The Garden City restaurant offers flavored juices from the Mediterranean region, including Mango Colada. 829 Franklin Avenue, Garden City, 516-739-1002. Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday, noon to 10 p.m. Entrees $10.99 to $19.99.

Found a great place to dine? Let us know about it in the comments section below.