SF is one of the healthiest cities in the country. With San Francisco’s iconic rolling hills, charming urban parks, miles of beachfront and recreational facilities it’s easy to see how “The City” keeps healthy and active. As such, there is a demand for healthy and interesting choices when it comes to the meals we choose, especially when dining out.
Athens, Greece -A community built on the Mediterrannean diet
Greek, or the Mediterranean Diet is considered to be one of the best choices for those seeking out a healthy cuisine. What makes the Greek diet so good for you is the variety of nutrient-rich foods and dietary principles. The Greek diet consists mainly of healthy foods such as vegetables, fruit, fish, olive oil and nuts. These particular foods offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can improve several risk factors linked to diabetes, obesity, and even heart disease.
(Didn’t your mother always tell you to eat your veggies?)
Dark, leafy greens provide a rich source of minerals, phytonutrients, and even a small amount of Omega-3s. A vital secret to improving your health. These greens are commonly found in well-known dishes such as Spanakotiropita.
Seafood Small Plates (Mezedes Thalassines)
Fish and most seafood are a great source of Omega-3s and deliver lots of immune-boosting and cancer-fighting ingredients. They frequently highlight in many Greek dishes like Lavraki Psito (Mediterranean sea bass) and Htopodi (Octopus).
Feta and Olives with Spreads and Pita (Feta, Elies, kai Pikilia me Pita) -The Perfect Wine Bar Snack
Olive oil is a main staple in Greek cooking and is an excellent provider of healthy fat. Monounsaturated fats can help promote good heart health and also help to keep you full and satisfied. Most dishes include this wonderful oil. Besides, who can think of Greek food and not think of olives?
Tomatoes, another frequently used element in Greek cooking, have tons of health benefits. Tomatoes are a great source of Vitamins A, B6, C, K and other nutritional elements such as lycopene, potassium, and even fiber. These excellent, red wonders are also a known cancer-fighter. Tomatoes can be found in dishes including Yemisty Domata, Horiatiki salata and Gyros.
Even red wine (in moderation of course) can be beneficial to your health. Red wine has antioxidants can help cardiovascular health. I think we now know what Tony Bennett was really singing about when he, “left his heart in San Francisco”. Clearly he was talking about all of the health benefits available in our “City by the Bay”.
The other benefit to the Greek diet is the portion sizes. Greeks often share small plates of food called a Meze. (Ironic, we think not!) By sharing bites of food, one not only slows down to allow the brain to register “fullness” and avoid over-eating, but also more thoroughly enjoys what is being tasted. There is also more room for variety when sharing small plates. A variety of healthy Greek foods is suggested to reap broadest nutritional benefits. Mezes Kitchen and Wine Bar, aptly named for its small plates that are meant to be shared, is a great place to be considered when you are seeking out a nutritional and delicious 
dining experience.
So, if you’re in SF and you want to enjoy a healthy lifestyle along with the rest of us, come to Mezes!
