Few places around campus offer such a refreshing alternative to dorm food like Garbanzo’s.
Walk into the restaurant and notice the warm smell of pita bread combined with mouth-watering falafel balls and you know you’re in for a treat.
Garbanzo’s Mediterranean Grill, located on 2045 S. University Blvd., between the Spicy Pickle and Blackjack’s Pizza, brings a unique spin on fast food that won’t put a dent in your Pioneer Card.
Falafel is available with marinated chicken or beef in sauce, but there is a veggie falafel alternative that doesn’t sacrifice tastiness.
Alan Mor, owner of the Garbanzo’s chain, is excited to bring his Israeli cuisine to Denver and break the norm in the fast food community.
“We bake our fresh bread twice daily here in the restaurant,” said Mor. “We also focus on green, recyclable materials like recycled canvas and paper products.”
Ordering a meal is easy. The directions are printed on large boards at the front of the meal line. Mull over your decision as you whet your appetite with a complimentary falafel.
Choose from laffa (similar to a tortilla), pita, hummus or plain bowl and fill with items from salad to rice. The tahini, a mix of sesame seeds and spices, adds a delicious twist to any meal.
Sandwiches range from $5.59 to $6.19 or for $2.79 more chips and a drink can be added. A favorite is the Pita Falarma with Mediterranean Garlic Sauce, $5.49.
Hummus bowls, served with a pita, range from $4.69 to $5.29. Nothing is over $6, and you can get a decent meal for just under $10.
No alcohol or specialty drinks are served. Sobe, Coke and Pepsi products are available from the soda fountain or bottled. Cookies and pitas are also available for $0.99 each.
There is a counter near the wall facing South University Boulevard, but besides that there are open sided table and booths in the cafeteria-style restaurant.
The service is quick and friendly, with staff ready to answer questions about their self-proclaimed “unpronounceable” ingredients. There are no waiters, but staff pick up plates and clear the tables after diners.
Garbanzo’s is open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m. the following day.
Garbanzo’s is already active within the DU community; Mor raised $500 for the university’s S.A.V.E. athletic scholarship program.
Since Garbanzo’s first location on I-25 and Arapahoe Road opened, people have been asking for a location in the DU area.
“We are very excited to be a part of the DU location, student body and campus,” said Mor. “Garbanzo’s is off to a great start and ready to be able to help.”
