When Tanmay Chawla visited his first Nick the Greek restaurant in Davis, the experience lingered.
“I was immediately impressed by the fresh ingredients, quality preparation and authentic flavors,” Chawla said.
When he had the opportunity to bring that “same quality to a new community,” he jumped at the chance. He knew it was the “right fit.”
“Nick the Greek also offers strong franchise support and a clear roadmap to success, which made the decision even easier,” Chawla said. “The brand is growing quickly, and I’m proud to be part of its expansion.”
The first South Orange County location is at 806 Avenida Pico, Suite F, in San Clemente. The restaurant opened on April 29 with free lunch for all patrons from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
San Clemente, Chawla said, was a logical choice.
“San Clemente is a vibrant coastal city with a strong sense of community and a growing food scene,” Chawla said.
“Our location is ideal—near a high school, a military base, City Hall and numerous businesses. We’re also part of a busy retail center with other restaurants and a grocery store, which ensures steady foot traffic.”
Nick the Greek was founded in 2014 in Northern California by three cousins dubbed “big,” “little” and “baby” Nick Tsigaris.
Chawla said San Clemente has few options for Greek or Mediterranean food. The menu offers salads and soups, fries, desserts, bowls, dishes and gyros and pitas.
Nick the Greek’s signature dish is its pita. Within that warm, fluffy pita bread are seasoned meats, fries, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki.
Recently, Nick the Greek introduced its Mediterranean Steak Bowl—with seasoned steak, fresh vegetables, chickpeas and hummus along with toum and harissa.
Chawla called the atmosphere at Nick the Greek fun and welcoming.
“We also make it a priority to be actively involved in the community through sponsorships, partnerships and events,” Chawla said.
“We want Nick the Greek to be more than a restaurant. We want it to be a gathering place for families, students and professionals.”