Bunky’s Caf? on Madison’s near East side is one of the city’s most inspired ethnic dining locations. Originating primarily as an Italian restaurant in the Italian-American Greenbush neighborhood of Madison in the 1930s, it has transformed into an eatery unlike anything else.

Owners Teresa Pullara and Rachid Ouabel have crafted a menu which represents a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean influences that provides a unique and family-oriented dining experience. Drawing from their Italian influence, they have pizza and pasta of all sorts. Whether it is the restaurant’s own “Bunky’s pasta,” comprised of farfalle, broccoli, onions, mushrooms and chicken served with homemade marinara cream sauce and parmesan cheese, or pesto pizza featuring spinach, basil, garlic, artichoke and parmesan cheese,

Pullara and Ouabel are unafraid to challenge their guests with scrumptious carbohydrates certain to make patrons loosen their belts but satisfy the taste buds. For the lover of Mediterranean cuisine, the menu features a very broad range of dishes comprised of tabouli, a type of salad composed mostly of a wheat-like grain called bulgur, mint, tomatoes, scallion and other assorted spices, hummus, mashed and often seasoned chickpeas, and falafel, fried balls made of chickpeas.

One of the enticing options includes chicken shawarma, slow-roasted, marinated chicken breasts replete with rice, hummus or tabouli, and a side of homemade yogurt. Another is kafta brochette, ground lamb cooked with the chef’s special spices and served with similar sides.

While the idea of a Mediterranean and Italian restaurant may be a temptation on its own, a trip to Bunky’s is enhanced further by the freshness of the food. Clear in the taste is each vegetable’s flavor, which means that only a subtle amount of spices is added. This serves to create a dining experience defined by extremely high-quality ingredients not overdone by salt or pepper. Additionally, the menu boasts extensive gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, startlingly fresh desserts and gourmet wine, making a Bunky’s experience optimal for people who enjoy every level of the dining experience.

Most important about Bunky’s is the restaurant and service itself. The walls are covered in knickknacks and photos that make the patron feel like a guest in someone’s home with a very compelling character. Pullara personally greets and seats each guest, and her warm smile and easy conversation is the best reason to go to Bunky’s.

Her sincerity and desire to provide each person with great food comes across right away, and that is something worth experiencing. Bunky’s Caf? is located at 2827 Atwood Ave. and is open Tuesday through Saturday They serve lunch as well as dinner.

3 1/2 stars out of 5