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| This Month's Recipe Harissa - North Africa  A spicy sauce that is great for meat and vegetable dishes. |
About Iraila Mediterranean Rustica
Iraila Mediterranean Rustica began as a dream early in the summer of 2003, but quickly became a full-fledged restaurant opening in September 2003 in Eugene, Oregon. Founded by Mark Zolun and Kenneth Glenn, the restaurant serves up Mediterranean cuisine from Egypt and the African coast, the Levant and the standard European Mediterranean fare.
Owners Mark Zolun and Kenneth Glenn.
With a history in restaurant experience, including Hilda's of Eugene, Mark and Kenneth bring to the table a unique collection of recipes ranging from the home-cooking of Iraila's namesake, Mark's Italian mother, to recipes collected from a year-long around-the-world trip. During their journey through the Mediterranean region, Mark and Kenneth met many food enthusiasts such as themselves who were more than willing to share their authentic dishes specific to their culture and tradition. As restaurateurs, Mark and Kenneth wish to extend their travels to Eugenians. Kenneth recollects Turkish mezes, "meat and veggies sizzling on a huge grill—people would point, and the owner would pile the appropriate goodies on a roll—so simple, but out of this world with flavors! We want people to delight in the food we did without hassling with taxi drivers and uncomfortable hotel beds."
The Cuisine
Iraila serves up traditional Mediterranean fare such as Lamb Kabobs, but also provides vegan and vegetarian alternatives. Many of the dishes feature organic and locally produced ingredients. Whet your appetite with the full menu of Iraila delights.
The Namesake
The restaurant is a memorial to Mark's mother, Iraila, a second-generation Italian who was passionate about cooking. Mark remembers fondly the care and effort she took in preparing fabulous family meals such as her unbeatable lasagna (available on the menu). Mark would like to pass on the tradition of the "family style" meal, who remembers eating around a ping-pong table piled high with platters of food at Thanksgiving, "because that was the only table large enough to fit the whole family." Mark and Kenneth hope that customers will partake in the "family style" portion of the menu that will feature weekly specials in "family size" portions.
Meet the Owners
Kenneth Glenn
Kenneth has baked in numerous bakeries throughout Eugene, divining delectable sweets that will be available on the dessert menu. A long-time Eugene resident, Kenneth has also performed with the popular juggling and comedy groups "Guys with Ties" and "Out to Lunch."
Mark Zolun
During Mark's ten years in Eugene, he has performed, directed and taught classes for local theaters. Previous to moving to Eugene, Mark lived in Los Angeles where he worked as a food stylist for "Body by Jake" and "The Tim and Daphne Show", working with chef greats such as Jacques Pepin and Martin Yan. Mark also worked as an art director, receiving an Emmy certificate for his work on "Pee Wee's Playhouse" and "Fun House." Mark has also worked as prep-chef for Seasons in Durango, Colorado serving up fine mesquite-grilled gourmet food.
Most recently, Mark and Kenneth were actively involved at Hilda's Restaurant, as chef and waiter extraordinaire, respectively.