By Dominique Sabins, Special to the Blog.
PhinneyWood’s beloved Mr. Gyros returns after 10 years, and this time they brought breakfast with them. Don’t worry, their gyros and kabobs are back as well, but you’ll want to make a special occasion for their new Mediterranean breakfast.
After the tragic explosion that destroyed their original location 10 years ago, brothers Sammy and Joni have set up shop just a few blocks away from where they started. Located at 8535 Phinney Avenue N., just a block away from the bustle of 85th street, the team is serving up a breakfast you won’t find anywhere else in Seattle. From za’atar halloumi toast to baklava pancakes, you’ll be thinking about this meal for days.
Breakfast is offered exclusively at their Greenwood location Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The new space boasts a sunny patio and cozy interior, with touches that transport you to a Mediterranean oasis. If you’re looking for your next weekday breakfast joint, Mr. Gyros has just the right atmosphere to slow down before jumping into your day.
Start your day with breakfast at Mr. Gyros
Breakfast at Mr. Gyros didn’t spare any details — or flavors. Everything was thoughtfully prepared, outrageously good, and garnished with special touches. Their breakfast is available seven days a week, but the weekdays have a special feel at their new shop. Between a plate of exceptional food and a Turkish coffee with enough caffeine to zap you awake, Mr. Gyros is the perfect neighborhood spot to start your day.
While everything we tasted was stunning, the star of the meal was the french toast. This french toast had a donut-like consistency, with a crunchy exterior and pillowy insides. Rosewater-infused whipped cream and fresh raspberries added a bright twist to this rich dish. Sprinkled with a healthy dose of pistachios and maple syrup, you’ll be fighting to get the last bite.
If pancakes normally bore you, Mr. Gyros’ baklava pancakes are bound to make you fall in love with them again. Three massive cinnamon-spiced pancakes are topped with flaky layers of deconstructed baklava in this truly innovative dish. More pistachios are tossed over the pancakes with a side of rose simple syrup to drizzle. Pro tip: Plan to share this filling dish with your table.
Their savory breakfast items had just as much flare as their sweets. To balance out the french toast and baklava pancakes, we also tried the shakshuka and za’atar halloumi toast.
Compared to most shakshukas that have a heavy tomato sauce, Mr. Gyros’ was surprisingly refreshing. The sauce was packed with sautéed tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions that made for a lighter base. Topped with two runny eggs, feta, and slices of pita, this dish stands out from your typical shakshuka.
Mr. Gyros’ za’atar halloumi toast is quickly gaining a cult-following amongst regulars. Imagine Mediterranean grilled cheese, but for breakfast. Two thick slices of grilled toast are filled with za’atar-spiced halloumi and served alongside eggs and fresh veggies. Dip the toast in the runny eggs to soak up all the flavors and you’ll understand what all the hype is about.
Slow down at their tranquil Mediterranean oasis
After 10 years without Mr. Gyros in the neighborhood, they’ve truly gifted us with this outstanding breakfast. In just one year they’ve already established themselves as a neighborhood staple — almost like they never left.
Mr. Gyros is one of those spaces you walk into and instantly feel like family. Sammy, Joni, and their team are not only dishing out some of Seattle’s best food, they’re also creating a welcoming community space. Lounge on their sun-soaked patio for a leisurely weekend brunch or kick off your weekday with a jolt of flavor. No matter when you visit, you’ll leave with your belly and heart full.