by Jimineta Swain

 

​It’s one of the newest restaurants on the West Bay Street strip. Its name – Sparta –was derived from Greek mythology.

 

It was engineered and introduced by the Greek operators of the El Greco Hotel last November, making it the newest kid on the block, going head to head with other big name restaurants that share the same address. 

 

For those of you that love a good movie, anytime I hear ‘Sparta’ the movie ‘300’ comes to mind. But Sparta – an ancient Greek city – was known in its day for its military prowess. I guess, the owners of Sparta today, are hoping the restaurant will become known for its 
great food, ambiance and stellar service.

 

In the months following its late 2012 opening, I would pass Sparta almost everyday, sometimes even twice. In those moments, the thought often occurred to pull over and check it out. Well, I finally decided a few weeks ago that Sparta would be my Friday nightspot. 

 

And even though the restaurant is situated right on the main West Bay Street nestled between the Daily Grind and Ichiban, the glass windows serve as insulators, minimizing street noises. The seating nearest the roadside provides a cozy, romantic kind of atmosphere. On arrival, I was greeted by the hostess who was warm and friendly – a plus when ever you’re visiting a new restaurant. I make a mental note that indeed I felt welcomed.

 

As I’m seated and have a glance at the menu, immediately a dish called, “The Last Meal of the 300” jumps out at me. This one’s for you movie lovers. 
My mouth is salivating; it’s a hearty 12-ounce T-bone steak meal. Unfortunately, I’m not having it, tonight, but the name alone highlights it as something I will definitely be having on my next visit.

 

There are a number of appetizer options like the Leonidas platter, which includes crab and conch cakes, bruschetta, three cheese stuffed mushrooms and it would not be complete without wings. All of the morsels are delectable, but I especially like the wings and bruschetta.

 

If something is good, I often say, “it’s been made with love” and they sure delivered. 

 

It’s now time for the entrée and I inquire about some of the more popular dishes that patrons keep coming back for. Apparently two dishes – the pan-fried stuffed snapper with okra and rice and garden vegetables, and the boneless leg of lamb – stand out the most. My stomach has to make lots of space tonight.

 

The snapper is nicely seasoned and the accompanying starches and vegetables are pleasing to the palate. 
It’s a great piece of fish, but the lamb blew me away! I don’t know what was in the sauce that coated it, but it was straight from heaven! 

 

In keeping with the Greek theme, I tasted the Bahamian Goddess drink which is Sparta’s twist on the popular Bahama Mama drink. It was refreshing. No meal would be complete without desert which consisted of Guava cheesecake. First bite, home run!

 

What I can tell you about Sparta is that in the three months it’s been open manager Marlon Hendfield says the business has already become known for its good food and special emphasis on service. 

 

The ambiance and music offers an intimate and romantic atmosphere. 
And, while Hendfield admits it would be nice to “corner the market”; he says there’s enoughbusiness to go around. 

 

So, if you want a nice outing, in a family-friendly atmosphere then Sparta just might be the place to bring out the warrior or goddess in you. Spartans!