By Justin Williamson – CCN Brews & Bites
Today’s pick that’s up for review is a restaurant that has clawed its way into the lexicon of Whiteville area eateries. They have a history of solid Italian style cuisine that dates back a few decades. They started here after Pizza Hut moved into the Walmart Center on the south side of town. We all wondered how it would work out.
At that point all we knew of Italian food was our local faves Mama Rita’s and Pizza Village. Pizza Hut had been here a while, but that was it. Who were these newcomers? Could they slice it? I’m happy to say that Zeko’s has been a great Whiteville area addition, serving pizza, pasta, and a full menu to us ever since.
My last visit to Zeko’s was last week and I was happy to take my wife over for dinner. We found the interior to be clean and attractively appointed. Service here has never been an issue, always friendly and polite; this visit was no exception. We sat at a table and were greeted quickly and placed our orders. I went with Chicken Parmesan while she had a small pizza. They also serve a full appetizer menu and house favorites like burgers and a variety of flavors of chicken wings.
On this day, my plate was served fairly quickly and included a small salad and a bread knot. I did find that the use of chicken tenderloin strips instead of the traditional cutlet was easy to eat, but missed the classic preparation expectation. (This didn’t take away from the meal, but just a little insight for those who may wonder.) As for the sauce component, they went as far as to put meat sauce on my spaghetti portion and classic marinara after the chicken was melted over with cheese – nice! I felt special.
My wife had a small pizza and got a bowl from the salad bar. The pizza here is good, not the huge and fold-worthy New York style, but a solid slice that focuses on a consistent crust with some attention to topping quality. I am always finding my reactions complimentary when I have pizza from Zeko’s. It’s like I forget that they do good pizza. Stop in and get one!
The salad bar is average and stocked up with expected salad items, but it’s a nice touch for those that want to craft their own salad entree. Overall the store is clean and well run.
There are no gaping issues to speak of and they offer a dining experience that is relaxed and fulfilling.
The one area I can’t get a grip on is their working schedule – it’s a bit weird to me. They take a mid-afternoon break most days from 2-4 and are closed on Tuesdays. Beyond those small gripes, I have nothing else to bring up for discussion.
Rating Zeko’s: 5/5 Encore-Worthy
A full-service dining experience paired with solidly consistent food and attention to detail that offers you the flavors you crave, at a price that you can afford.
I try every week to include an encouragement to get out and try something new for your family dining experience and to support our local area restaurateurs! If you haven’t tried Zeko’s in the past 20 years, it’s time.
Thanks for reading,
Justin Williamson
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