Xenia Kebab Grille (Harrisonburg, VA)

219 Burgess Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, T: 540-437-4832

Xenia is a small Kurdish place in the back of a big strip mall in the college town of Harrisonburg; it’s actually next to the entrance of James Madison University. It seems mostly for take-out, although one of the other three tables is occupied this Sunday evening.

I order a small portion of “Boardwalk Fries” ($1.79), which are allegedly a specialty. I only later realize they are a particular brand (Boardwalk), which seem to be mostly used in sports venues. They are rather soft and mushy inside; bland but saved somewhat by the added seasoning. I also get a small Greek Salad ($2.49), which is a basic lettuce/tomato/onion/cucumber combination, but with a refreshing seasoning and Greek dressing. Finally, I get the Traditional Athena Gyro ($6.95): a gyros in a kind of naan bread; the meat is a bit dry but crispy, the gyros has good authentic flavors and is topped with tasty tzatziki.

VERDICT: 87/100

Xenia is a nice little Middle Eastern place off the beaten track. The food tastes authentic and the bread gives a special twist to it! Ignore the fries, go for the gyros!