August 11, 2015 – The folks behind Yafa and Dametra Mediterranean restaurants in Carmel are opening their first outpost today in downtown Santa Cruz. Mozaic at 110 Church St, just off Pacific Avenue, occupies a 150 seat space formerly home to Louie’s Cajun Grill and Clouds. “Our menu is similar to Dametra with kababs and Greek and Italian specialties, there’s also a nice selection of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian dishes,” said manager Jay Dib. The interior has been completely remodeled with colorful Turkish crafts.
There are Turkish textiles on the walls in the entry way, lending warmth, and the space is lit by an exotic handblown chandelier that gives off a kaleidoscope of colored light. New pendant lights over the long bar look like ancient Greek mosaics and newly painted murals on the walls show views of Greek temples and the Grand Canal of Venice.
Partners Ben Khader and Jerees Rohana said they were attracted to Santa Cruz because of its “bohemian” vibe and hope locals will be open to their style of Mediterranean food.
“We really want to take care of the locals,” said Dib, noting that none of the entrées will be priced over $25. Plans are in the works for adding 45-minute lunch specials for downtown workers and live music, a la Dametra. Dib also promised a website would be coming soon.
But the food is ready and so are chef Grant Kester and sous chef José Castellanos, formerly of Café Rio. They say their favorite dish is the slow-cooked lamb shank, put in the oven as soon as they arrive in the morning and roasted at low temperature for six hours. Mozaic is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11am to closing…which is often the wee hours of the morning in Carmel when customers are having fun.
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