Inside: Omri Go Med

(Credit: Richard Lui, Special to Metromix)

Now that summer is here, my thoughts turn to cool breezes and ocean views. Of course, this is a little difficult to accomplish in the desert.

For a taste of the Mediterranean that's a little closer to home, try Omri Go Med in Palm Desert. Although it has only been open a few weeks, many of you will certainly recognize the name.

Omri Siklai has returned to and expanded his original location, which now serves both lunch and dinner. The moment you enter, you feel like you have been transported to a sidewalk cafe in Mykonos, Greece. Cool, blue Mediterranean colors are prominent.

In that part of the world, whitewashed houses and cozy restaurants are a tradition and Omri has captured that feeling here in the desert.

Omri's menu combines contemporary flavors with classic Mediterranean style, focusing on flavors that are robust and free of complicated sauces and butter.

If you're like me and always looking for a great, inexpensive place for lunch, be sure to add Omri to your list.

Most of the main dishes served at lunch are under $10.

We started our meal with warm, homemade garlic rolls and falafel balls accompanied by a mild hummus spread.

They were so delicious, I could have made a meal out of just the appetizers.

My friend ordered the cold beet borscht. It was light, refreshing and made with fresh basil, a trace of onion and topped with a small dollop of sour cream. I enjoyed the soup of the day - basil corn chowder. It was chunky, flavorful and piping hot.

Installed throughout the dining area are flat screens that have a live feed to the kitchen, allowing diners a view of the action without getting in the way.

You know you're in a good restaurant when people sitting nearby ask what you're eating. One gentleman made a point of telling us that the red bell pepper filled with mushrooms, barley and greens and covered with a flavorful tomato broth ($7.50), was excellent.

The greens and feta cheese pie ($7.50) was also a hit - feta cheese, spinach and fresh diced tomatoes surrounded by a flaky, puff pastry crust. Omri told us that his feta is imported from Israel, hence its creamy texture.

We also enjoyed the char-grilled ahi tuna on a skewer ($9.50) served with couscous and fresh vegetables. The tuna was fresh, moist and tender.

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