A new Greek restaurant named Medusa has opened on St John's Road in Waterloo, quickly becoming a popular spot in the area's growing food scene. The restaurant, led by 30-year-old owner Adam Noble, focuses on a menu of small plates and authentic dishes, attracting full-capacity crowds even on weeknights.
Medusa offers a departure from typical Greek restaurant themes, presenting a modern yet homely atmosphere. The menu features a range of classic dishes, with several items receiving high praise for their flavour and presentation, alongside friendly, hands-on service from the owner.
Key Takeaways
- Medusa, a new Greek restaurant, is now open on St John's Road in Waterloo.
- The establishment is owned and operated by Adam Noble, 30, from Fazakerley.
- The menu is built around small plates, including whipped feta (£4.55), saganaki (£5.95), and moussaka (£9.15).
- The restaurant has been noted for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.
- A unique dessert, baklava cheesecake (£6.95), is also featured on the menu.
A New Culinary Destination in Waterloo
Waterloo's St John's Road has welcomed a new addition to its expanding collection of eateries with the opening of Medusa. The Greek restaurant, a project by local entrepreneur Adam Noble, has already generated significant local interest, reportedly operating at full capacity on a recent Wednesday evening.
The restaurant's interior design avoids common clichés associated with Greek establishments. Instead, it features simple and rustic elements like exposed brickwork near the kitchen and decorative clay pots, creating a warm and inviting environment for diners.
The focus is on creating an authentic experience that feels more like a family-run eatery than a themed resort restaurant. This approach appears to be resonating with local customers who are looking for genuine Mediterranean food in a relaxed setting.
Waterloo's Growing Food Scene
St John's Road and the surrounding Waterloo area have seen a notable increase in independent restaurants, cafes, and bars in recent years. This growth is transforming the neighbourhood into a recognized destination for food and drink within Merseyside, attracting both local residents and visitors from further afield.
Exploring the Small Plates Menu
Medusa's menu is structured around small plates, encouraging diners to sample a variety of dishes. This format is ideal for sharing and allows for a comprehensive taste of what the kitchen has to offer. The meal began with a bottle of the house red wine, priced at £18.95, which was noted for being good value.
Standout Starters
Several appetisers have been highlighted as particularly noteworthy. The whipped feta with toasted pitta (£4.55) is described as tangy and soft. Another popular choice is the cod bites (£7.55), served golden and crisp with fresh fish inside.
A theatrical element is introduced with the saganaki (£5.95). This dish of fried cheese is flambéed with brandy at the table by owner Adam Noble, adding a unique, charred flavour and providing a memorable dining experience.
What is Saganaki?
Saganaki is a classic Greek appetiser made from pan-seared cheese. The name refers to the small, two-handled frying pan in which it is cooked. Typically made with cheeses like halloumi, graviera, or kefalotyri, it is often served with lemon and pepper.
Main Dishes and Signature Flavours
While small plates are central, Medusa also offers larger, more traditional main courses. The pork gyros (£14.55) is a substantial offering, featuring well-seasoned, moist pork wrapped in fresh pitta bread. It is served with crispy fries, onions, vegetables, and a cooling tzatziki sauce.
The moussaka (£9.15) was described as exceptionally creamy and comforting, with a well-seasoned meat layer that draws favourable comparisons to a high-quality lasagne.
The moussaka (£9.15) has been singled out for particular praise, with one diner calling it the best they had ever tasted. Its creamy texture and flavourful meat filling have made it a standout dish on the menu.
However, not every dish was considered perfect. The beef stifado (£8.55), a traditional beef stew, was found to have meat that was slightly chewy. Despite this, its rich, tangy tomato-based sauce, topped with feta cheese, was well-received.
Innovative Desserts and Service
For dessert, Medusa offers a creative fusion dish: the baklava cheesecake (£6.95). This item combines the spiced, nutty, and flaky elements of traditional baklava with the creamy texture of cheesecake. The portion size is described as generous, offering a unique conclusion to the meal.
- Whipped Feta: £4.55
- Saganaki: £5.95
- Cod Bites: £7.55
- Beef Stifado: £8.55
- Moussaka: £9.15
- Pork Gyros: £14.55
- Baklava Cheesecake: £6.95
The service, led by Adam Noble, is a key component of the restaurant's appeal. His friendly and proud demeanour contributes to a lively and efficient atmosphere, making guests feel welcome. According to reports, food is served promptly, and the overall experience is that of a professional yet relaxed neighbourhood establishment.
A Promising Future for Medusa
While there may be minor areas for refinement, such as the texture of the beef in the stifado, the overall assessment of Medusa is overwhelmingly positive. Its combination of authentic food, innovative dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere has positioned it as a strong contender in Merseyside's Greek dining scene.
The restaurant's early success suggests it is a welcome and valuable addition to St John's Road. For those seeking a modern and heartfelt approach to Greek cuisine, Medusa presents a compelling new option in Waterloo.