Inside Mezze: Eurest’s Greek-Inspired Take on Mediterranean Shared Plates
Mediterranean cuisine has become one of the fastest-growing influences in restaurant menus, driven by demand or bold flavors, plant-forward options and meals that feel both satisfying and customizable. Eurest explores that momentum with the re-release of Mezze, a culinary concept that was first introduced in 2019 and was re-imagined this year as chefs drew inspiration from the dining traditions and bright flavors found in Greek culture and cuisine.
The word “mezze” refers to the small dishes commonly served in Mediterranean countries, where meals are often centered around gatherings with shared plates. Eurest developed the refreshed concept with the same spirit in mind, giving guests the opportunity to create their own tasting experience through customizable dishes inspired by Greek homestyle cooking.
A PERSONALIZED DINING EXPERIENCE
The concept is designed to offer flexibility without losing its culinary point of view. Build-your-own bowls and plates meet the demand driven by fast-casual Mediterranean dining, giving guests the ability to mix and match grains, greens, proteins, and toppings based on their preferences.
The Classics menu brings the concept back to Greek tradition with cultural staples rooted in authentic cooking. Dishes include Lamb or Mushroom Moussaka, Beef Stifado and Chicken Giouvetsi — comforting recipes that give guests a deeper connection to the cuisine behind the concept.
Moussaka, often considered one of Greece’s most iconic dishes, features layers of seasoned potatoes, eggplant, meat and béchamel. Mezze offers variations designed to appeal to a range of preferences, including vegetarian options.
“The beauty of Mezze is in the simplicity of the ingredients,” said Eurest Research & Development Chef Christopher Dupre. “Greek cuisine is enhanced by the brightness of olive oil, herbs and vegetables. We wanted to honor the culinary traditions and techniques while giving our guests a personalized dining experience.”
TRUSTED PARTNERSHIPS, DISTINCT FLAVORS
The spirit of Mezze is rooted in the Mediterranean tradition of gathering around the table, where many different elements come together to create one complete experience. Working with that mindset, Eurest collaborated with trusted partners to develop products that delivered quality and authenticity across each menu.
Nestlé is helping Eurest deliver consistently great shawarma, while Actual Veggies worked with Eurest chefs to create a custom falafel developed exclusively for the concept. The falafel expands the plant-based protein options within Mezze and reflects Eurest’s standards for flavor, quality and ingredient-forward innovation.
These partnerships add depth to the menu while supporting the guest experience Mezze is designed to create: elevated, approachable and full of discovery.