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| - With its mall location, you might assume that Freska is a chain or a franchise, but I don't believe that's the case. As a big fan of Mediterranean fare, I've always wished for a fast food or dare I say a Mediterranean McDonald's, so I could get my falafel fix anywhere. Freska comes close, providing a clean and attractive venue with flexible Greek and Middle Eastern choices in a self-service setting. Beer and wine availability is also a good feature.
When you walk in, menus are immediately available by the door. You have a choice of sandwiches, salads, sides and hot meals. the choices are limited, but the combinations of main dishes and sides make for a fun lunch experience. A big feature is a make-your-own salad choice, where the counter staff puts it all together for you. No bumping into other patrons as you might in a regular salad bar. The gyros can be lamb/beef or chicken, and for a change, you can change up the toppings to whatever they have, in lieu of the standard tzatziki/tomato/onion.
The gyros sandwich ($6.99/no fries) was my choice on my first visit, and I went with the traditional topping. The sandwich was fine, not the best I've had. On another visit, I made my own combo platter with sides of Falafel, Hummus with pita bread and grape leaves. Both lunches with a drink came around $9.00, not a bad price for a quick, fresh lunch. It's easy enough to drop the same amount at a fast-food burger joint, except Freska is much healthier.
I'm in sync with Jay N. here to say that I consider Freska a solid 3.5 experience. While nothing really stands out foodwise, the convenience and flexibility for getting a fresh Middle Eastern lunch or dinner is a big draw. It's a comfortable and appealing space and easily maneuvered and self-service joints go. I won't hesitate to make it a go to lunch spot anytime I'm in West Madison/Middleton Mallville.
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