Nabeel’s Café and Market, Homewood, AL

To dine at Nabeel's Cafe is to escape to Europe.

by Lynn Grisard Fullman and Milton Fullman Jr. | August 12, 2010

An executive in computers, marketing and information systems for more than 24 years, John Krontiras used to travel the world, sample foods "in dives and five-star restaurants." All the while, he'd jot notes on things he believed essential for an outstanding eatery.

Little did he know how helpful his observations would become after he lost his job in 1991.

Heritage also may have played a role. Krontiras' father was a candy and chocolate manufacturer.

Begun in 1972 as a small ethnic grocery store, Nabeel's Café has blossomed under the Krontiras touch.

Today, there are some 1,500 grocery items sold in a market adjacent to the cafe that is known for what Krontiras describes as "nothing fancy but foods prepared with a certain degree of artistry."

The first hint of what awaits is an exterior mural with a European feel. Inside, the intrigue continues with food prepared the way the Krontiras family would cook at home -- for themselves and for their guests.

Long known for its Greek and Mediterranean dishes, Nabeel’s has a broad menu. Two of its choices -- Moussaka (fresh eggplant casserole with ground beef, made from an old Greek recipe) and Camel Rider sandwich (roast beef, bologna, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, mustard and pickles served in a pita pocket) – are included among the Alabama Tourism Department’s list of "100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die."

With warm and gracious hospitality, cozy booths, Greek posters and authentic food, Nabeel’s has become, for many, a home away for home. With Krontiras’ permission, a few regular customers have attached bronze plaques on “their” preferred high-back booth.

Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Nabeel’s adjacent market sells foods imported from around the world, specialty gourmet items and fresh items such as chicken salad, pimento cheese and a selection of olives and feta.

Nabeel's Café and Market (205-879-9292) is located 1706 Oxmoor Rd., in Homewood, just south of Birmingham.