Apollon
It’s special when friends or family come together to share an experience more than just a meal. The Apollon in Appleton is one of those places you get that kind of immersive experience, and it begins when you hear someone yell “OPA!” accompanied by a flash of heat behind you. Your first reaction will be startled but soon you’ll be asking, “How do I order that?”
In A Bite
Ambiance: Greek Seaside Cafe
Music: Greek
Service: Highly Professional
Price: $$$
Food Style: Mediterranean Greek
What to Order: Saginaki or Saffron Lamb
Go Again?: We’ve been again. And again. And again.
The Whole Plate
I won’t bury the lead too much. That dish I was talking about above is the tableside service you get for an appetizer called saganaki, or “flaming cheese.” If you order it, your server will pour a shot of liquor on the cheese and loudly pronounce “OPA!” as he or she lights it aflame (note to the ladies: go light on the hairspray). This leaves the cheese ooey-gooey with the flavor of the alcohol and none of the punch.
Even if it’s not our order, I will gleefully throw a hand in the air and “OPA!” right along with them. But let’s take this boat back to harbor and start at the beginning, shall we?
Upon first impression, the Apollon is just a gorgeous restaurant. The murals on the walls create an atmosphere that allows you to step out of Wisconsin for a meal but without having to fight a stranger for arm rest dominance on a 12 hour flight.
We’ve been to the Apollon numerous times over the years and it never loses it’s magic. Because of this, we’ve had the pleasure of trying a bunch of appetizers and entrees; from menu classics to seasonal specials.
Let’s start with the soup and salad because it’s something that comes with each meal. The Greek salad is simple with greens, onions, tomato, cucumber, olives, and feta. But the best part is the pink and white dressings that come with it. We like to put both on the salad because they pair nicely together. Be careful! The olives are not pitted so be sure to spit on at your neighbor. Next is the avgolemono soup. It’s a Greek lemon chicken soup with a lot of tang. It’s good, but might be an acquired taste. I will eat my whole cup and the half that Lindsay can’t eat. That lemon will sock ya right in the mouth if you’re not ready for it. Get the fresh cracked black pepper on top! It really helps balance it out. Now let’s go through some appetizers and entrees.
Saganaki – The famous flaming cheese is actually not Lindsay’s favorite appetizer. The flames are fun and when the cheese is gooey, it’s delicious on the accompanying bread, but it gets firm quickly and is hard to spread then after. So be prepared to eat fast. If anyone in your party doesn’t like a strong, sharp cheese, they might want to get a different appetizer.
Tyropitakia – This appetizer could almost be served as dessert. It’s sweet, but is a nice contrast if you choose to order the saganaki too. It gives baklava vibes and flavors without actually being baklava. It’s layered with cheeses and topped with honey and walnuts instead of layering those in.
Stuffed Grouper – This entree was Lindsay’s favorite for years and is a great option if you want a fish that isn’t salmon. It’s a lighter dish with prominent seafood flavors that aren’t overpowering. The red pepper cream sauce has a great mouth feel with a light yet red pepper forward flavor.
Flaming Rack of Lamb – If the flaming cheese wasn’t enough, yes, you can get a flaming entree too! The rack is flambĂ©ed whole in front of you but then sliced and plated back in the kitchen for you. This is a good option for the meat-lover of the family. Though, if you’re going to get a lamb dish, the saffron option below is better.
Lamb Tenderloin Saffron – This one is a family favorite. If you’ve never had lamb before and you know you like saffron, you will love this entree. The lamb is so tender. The saffron cream sauce is rich and decadent. This is a 10/10.
Filet Mignon Au Chocolat – If lamb and fish isn’t your jam, this is your best option. Don’t be scared by the chocolate wine demi-glace. You do get a bitter chocolate flavor but it’s not going to overpower the dish. You might even want to lick the plate when you’re done.
Mixed Grille – Hello surf and turf with a Greek twist! This tasty dish will appeal to anyone who likes blue cheese.
Baklava (dessert) – Ok if we are being honest, dessert is a bit of a weak spot at Apollon. We weren’t super impressed with the baklava, and next time we will get the banana olympian. We recommend coming here for a birthday and then going home for a birthday cake dessert.
But what about the sides? We’re glad you asked. Most dishes are served with a starch and veggie like potatoes, rice, broccoli, and carrots but those are subject to change. As expected, they are a nice accompaniment to the entree but the meat is the star of the show.
As for drinks, they have a good variety of wines, beer, spirits, and post-meal beverages. David usually gets the Mythos beer and follows up dinner with a Greek coffee or espresso.
Some final thoughts…
Be on the look out for holiday specials as well! We went to a Valentines Day 5-course meal of familiar plates and new chef creations. It also had delightfully unique pallet cleansers of sorbet. If you haven’t noticed yet, we are huge fans of this incredible high-end gem in Appleton. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a graduation, or an anniversary, the Apollon should be your first pick for foreign fare with friends and family.
