Before my recent visit to Artemis Mediterranean Bistro in Montgomery, I had only briefly met Mehmet and Serpil Coskun, the husband-and-wife team behind this Middle Eastern gem. What I quickly discovered, however, is that Artemis offers far more than a menu of beautifully prepared Mediterranean dishes. It is a restaurant built on warmth, authenticity and a genuine sense of family.
In an era when chain restaurants dominate nearly every strip mall with predictable menus designed to appeal to the widest possible audience, it is refreshing to find a place like Artemis — an independently owned neighborhood bistro where both staff and guests are treated less like customers and more like welcomed members of the household.
Upon arrival, I spent some time speaking with Mehmet about his background and the evolution of the menu. Drawing on years of front-of-the-house experience along with a deep knowledge of the kitchen, he has crafted a concept that blends tradition with a modern Mediterranean sensibility. It is clear that he understands every facet of the restaurant business, allowing him to oversee operations with a practiced eye. What stood out most, however, was the pride in his voice as he spoke about bringing his vision to life.
Of course, this is very much a shared endeavor. Serpil plays an equally vital role, and speaking with her felt less like a typical restaurant conversation and more like discussing an upcoming holiday meal with a close relative. Her goal is simple but meaningful: to create an environment where guests feel genuinely at home—well cared for, warmly welcomed and eager to return.
And while hospitality is essential, we all know what ultimately matters most — the food.
My meal began with the Artemis Salad, a vibrant combination of cucumbers, cranberries, almonds and apricots over fresh greens, all brought together with a house-made honey mustard dressing. The interplay of textures and flavors — crisp, sweet and tangy — made for a lively and satisfying opening course.
Artemis Salad
For the main course, I selected one of the restaurant’s signature offerings: the lamb chops. As I’ve noted in past reviews, lamb chops typically fall into two categories — loin chops, which resemble a miniature T-bone, and the more refined rack of lamb, sliced into individual chops. Artemis features the latter, and they do so exceptionally well.
Grilled to perfection, the chops arrived beautifully marked, tender and full of flavor. Cut from the larger end of the rack, each piece offered a generous portion of meat, resulting in a dish that was both satisfying and elegant. Seasoned in a traditional Mediterranean style, the preparation allowed the natural richness of the lamb to shine through. It was, simply put, an excellent execution of a classic.
Lamb Chops
For those seeking a quiet yet upscale dining experience — where traditional flavors meet thoughtful preparation and genuine hospitality — Artemis Mediterranean Bistro is well worth a visit. With Mehmet and Serpil at the helm, it is a place where the experience feels personal, and where the last bite lingers long after it’s gone.
