On the now run-down walk to the Atwater area on St. Catherine Street, there is one pleasant view in the midst of run-down buildings and old scaffolding, of an older women sitting in a cafe window rolling out thin pieces of lavash bread. The fresh made-to-order lavash bread only adds to the old-world charm of Avesta Cuisine Regionale.

For our meal we ordered the Mezza plate with two choices, and two orders of Borek. I chose to have hummus and the Avesta-special that turned out to be a spicy eggplant spread similar to chutney. The Mezza plate also came with two large pieces of the Lavash bread that had been freshly rolled in the window.

The eggplant dip was spicy but had a jelly texture that didn't sit well with me. The hummus was ordinary and disappointing compared to other homemade versions in area restaurants such as Chateau Kebab or Al Dar. The lavash bread was delicious because of course it would be hard not to like bread freshly made in front of you. The spinach and feta borek was light and tasty, although less than extraordinary. The meat Borek was perfectly spiced and slightly packed the heat, the only downfall being that with a portion that large eating borek along with the mezza plate was quite the task.Avesta's is a traditional Turkish restaurant serving classic Turkish and Middle Eastern favorites such as kebab and schwarma. The best bang for your buck at Avesta is the mezza plate.

Each mezza plate is served with Borek, the most popular item at Avesta and two to four choices from traditional items such as Dolma, or Hummus. Borek, thin pieces of dough that are stuffed with either spiced meat, or feta and spinach are served in large portions that round out the Mezza plate perfectly.

Avesta offers other traditional dishes such as Muhammara, a walnut pine sauce and zucchini Dolma. The service is friendly with self-sit service, and simple booths. The Turkish decorations across the walls acted as reminders of the traditional restaurants' homeland.

Avesta came through for an affordable and filling meal with the menu offering main dishes from $12.00 to $14.00 and our two-selection Mezza plate coming in at 7.99. So, if you ever find yourself strolling along that area of St. Catherine and are stuck by the sudden urge for Turkish food just maybe Avesta will hit the spot.

Avesta is locatetd at:
2077 rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest
514-937-0156
HOURS: Everyday from about 10 a.m.-11 p.m