Skorpios Gyros — Restaurant in Newark

Walking in, I noticed that the restaurant had a modern air to it, and it seemed very clean and well-kept. I went over to order and noticed that most of the menu ranged from $1 for various sauces, including the business' special house-made sauce, called "Al's Sauce," (which seemed like a mayo based sauce with a kick, probably originating from Sriracha), to $20. I ordered the "Chicken Sandwich Combo" which included their unique chicken sandwich, quite a portion of their specially seasoned fries, and a fountain beverage. I also ordered a small side of their macaroni and cheese, and that came in a nicely portioned container that seemed like around 6-8 ounces or so, as well as a side of Al's Sauce. Everything totaled out at around $18, which seemed high at first, but was reasonable in regards to the portion size. The food came out about 10 minutes after ordering, which was expected given that everything is made to order and fresh. First thoughts on the seasoned fries: they came out hot, and all of them were decently crispy. The fries were light and airy and they had a flavour slightly comparable to what one would expect from a potato chip. Overall, fries were a 6.5/10. The chicken sandwich, which looked completely insane (in a good way), was comprised of 2 chicken tenders (I ordered them tossed in medium), American cheese, 5 pickles, which made me happy, and a nice heap of coleslaw, all on a high-quality brioche bun. First thoughts when trying the sandwich, it was very messy. But as I have found out, messy sandwiches have the biggest potential to be overwhelmingly unique and flavourful - and this sandwich was certainly no exception. The chicken tenders on the sandwich were well seasoned, and crispy as well, with a nice amount of breading. The pickles added a subtle tang, which proved complimentary. The coleslaw was unique, but not exactly in the best way (it was still nice on the sandwich though). The coleslaw's flavour very slightly resembled what I would expect from a tarter sauce in that it contained lots of mayonnaise and not such a high ratio of other ingredients. I wouldn't order it on its own, but again, it isn't bad on the sandwich, and kudos to the owner for being creative and making it one-of-a-kind here. When enjoying the sandwich, I noticed a hint of that special flavour that comes with many foods at fairs and events with food trucks... I can't explain the flavour but I'm sure you know what I mean. The sandwich overall was not skimpy at all, and again, seems like a reasonable deal. Chicken sandwich: 7/10. I enjoy macaroni and cheese, and I try to get it at restaurants here and there when I do reviews because I feel as if a restaurant's macaroni says a lot about their creativity, their boldness, and their willingness to experiment... Plus, who wouldn't order macaroni at a fried chicken restaurant? I feel as if those two things really go hand-in-hand with each-other. My first impressions: the macaroni was well cooked. The cheese in this was not the thickest cheese that I've seen in macaroni, but regardless, it was still decent. The cheese had an interesting flavour, and it was most definitely a processed cheese (which I prefer over macaronis made with whole cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, etc.), and the cheese reminded me of the flavour of a store-bought salsa con queso. Overall, the macaroni and cheese was okay. Macaroni and cheese: 4.5/10. Al's sauce was priced at a dollar, but I purchased one because I always like to try a restaurant's house-made sauce, and also, I am a stickler for condiments and sauces. First thoughts, the sauce had a touch of sweetness to it, complimenting the touch of tanginess and spiciness nicely, and overall, was not to overpowering when enjoyed with both the fries and the sandwich. I am not sold on the price for the average consumer, as the sauce isn't up to par with occasional sauces that I've had at other restaurants. However, if you're putting the price aside, then Al's Signature Sauce:...

I've ordered from these guys for years now, but have always had it delivered, or picked it up from their old location (now Baba's Grill). This was my first time in their new-ish sit down location, and the restaurant is beautiful. Clean, open, nice and cool on an unseasonably hot May afternoon. The food was just as good as ever, and I'm not 100% sure, but it looked like they may have added a few new appetizers. I got the lamb gyro, which is always solid, and their very straight-forward, no bells and whistles hummus, which is done simple and right. We also got their roasted eggplant dip, which is fairly similar to baba ganoush, and is also delicious. The baklava is also phenomenal, and if you're not familiar with the pastry, it might look relatively tiny, but it is so rich with honey and chopped walnuts that you still might consider splitting it.This is is the only place I've seen that uses walnuts instead of pistachios, and while I love Mediterranean food, I dunno if that's common or not. Either way, it's still a must get. It comes from their refrigerated dessert case, and I got mine to go, and they recommended I heat it up first (which I've always done, it makes the honey nice and melted). I'm sure the accommodating and friendly staff would be happy to warm it for you. There were a few other dessert options, mostly pies, that were intriguing, but I don't think we're homemade. Definitely going to try the salted caramel pie next time anyway. They've got their food down to a tee, and they have the quintessential Greek dessert done perfectly, so any other dessert is like ordering a salad from a pizza place. Unless they start making galaktoboureko, then get that. I give these guys an 11/10 for...

So... Let's start out with I'm always looking for a great chicken wing. I've had them from coast to coast. In many states I have one favorite here in Ohio I have now have three. A bit of caution the hot dry rub wings are 🔥. Not hot in a torch your taste buds sort of way, but a quality heat that is full bodied... It'll open your sinuses for sure. Not to worry though there is a sauce to help cool things down. The chicken itself all has a good "scald" on it and is flavorful no matter the heat selection.

Of course, we also had to try the funnel fries and they were pretty good as well... Really helped cool down after the hot wings and tater like a funnel cake so bonus.

The onion rings and fries were good (one point and this is a matter of personal taste...upgrade the ketchup.. The caliber of the food deserves Heinz).

Now, I normally don't mention beverages... Fountain or bottled beverages are pretty much the same wherever you go, but the tea selection here had to be mentioned. The hibiscus tea is great... Not to sweat just a great beverage and yes the fountain beverages are fine the mix is right not to over carbonated.

Now onto the atmosphere and service. The place is amazing inside open and spacious, clean and inviting and all of that is a positive but it's the friendliness of the people that make it. Everyone is pleasant, smiles... Laughs and even joking makes the front of house great.

If you are in the mood for some good, well seasoned chicken breast over you won't be...