Culinary Connection

Good Times at Greystoke’s Grill
By Kathy Highcove

Do you recall the popular television show "Cheers!"? Many of us remember not only the series, but can still hum the catchy theme song: "Sometimes you want to go where everyone knows your name, and they're always glad you came." The model for the fictional restaurant might be found in a Tarzana mini-mall: Greystoke's Grill at 18395 Ventura Blvd.

The popular neighborhood diner has been serving Valley diners for over twenty years. Greystoke's has changed owners several times, but has retained its home town atmosphere and friendly attitude toward its clientele. I asked current owner Tim Cook if he made changes when he acquired Greystoke's. He replied, "Nope, nothing to change. Everybody who works here knows what they're doing." Smart owner. If it's not broken...

Upon arrival at Greystoke's Grill, we were welcomed by cashier Sandy Recla. The long time employee immediately set about making the newcomers feel at home.

Greystoke's Grill exuded a "stay and enjoy" ambiance. The booths were comfortable, and the room well lighted and sunny thanks to the big windows that overlook the sidewalk foot traffic. Waiter Bernie Alvarez circled the room efficiently taking orders and delivering the drinks and specials. A happy buzz came from the families and friends at nearby tables. We felt cheered just to be there.

"The customers are nearly all from the local community and from the nearby hospital. Some doctors have a daily 'appointment' at the grill for a break from their medical duties. The hospital staff not only eats at the restaurant, but also recommends it to patients and their families," Sandy informed us.

Most customers come from the nearby neighborhoods of the Valley. "We've been coming for over twenty years," said Lake Balboa resident Howard Goldstein. "It's as friendly as a small town coffee shop."

Our food was prepared by chef Manny Carmona and his capable crew of cooks. I ordered the Chicken Bowl Salad special ($8.95) and it was a pretty sight to see: two generous scoops of minced chicken meat and mayonnaise crowned a bed of fresh lettuce, carrots, cucumbers and tomatoes. My companion chose the Towering Pastrami Sandwich ($9.95). True to its name, the selection's rye bread sat high on slices of lean, mildly salted pastrami. Sandy pointed out that Deli sandwiches are served with the traditional choices of cole slaw, potato salad or macaroni salad.

We ordered the renowned Manny Matzo Ball Soup. It was to die for, soup lovers - the best we've ever tried! The tennis ball sized matzo had a silky steamed texture. The golden chicken broth tasted rich enough to cure the common cold. We spooned up tender pieces of chicken breast and flavorful chunks of steamed carrot.

"We're not only friendly to our customers, we're flexible," Sandy assured me. "If someone wants just half a sandwich with soup or salad, that's fine with us."

Greystoke's is open early for breakfast at 7:00 a.m., serves lunch and late lunch before closing at 3:00 p.m. These hours are convenient for owner Cook who also owns the Maui Sugarmill Saloon right next door.

The menu offers standard breakfast combinations of eggs, potatoes, toast, bagels, lox and seasonal fruit. The griddle stands ready to fry stacks of pancakes, waffles and French toast. Breakfast selections are priced from $5.25 to $9.45. Side dishes range from the $1.95 bagel to the $6.95 fruit bowl.

The Omelet menu offers many choices. The customer is given a list of options for a custom designed omelet. Build Your Own omelets begin at $7.95. Add $.50 more for each ingredient. Regular omelet choices from the menu: $9.50.

Luncheon items: salads, $4.95 - $9.95; Soups, $4.75 - $6.50; Nosh Plates served with crackers or a slice of rye, $7.75 - $11.95; Sandwiches, $7.50 - $11.25

Cashier Shawn Moonie pointed out, "Greystoke's also makes up big decorative platters for your next party. And we have take-out, of course. All our deliveries are free if the order is more than $10."

In today's hectic world and bustling malls, diners are lucky to find a restaurant that offers a comfortable corner to all comers. In a nearby Tarzana mall, the friendly folks at Greystoke's Grill wait to learn your name.

Greystoke's Grill
Menu prices subject to change
18395 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, CA 91356
(818) 343-3045