Fast casual greek chain plans continued expansion this year

ST. PETERSBURG — Despite the searing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on most restaurant chains, Little Greek Fresh Grill says it is planning continued expansion this year throughout Florida and Texas.

The St. Petersburg-based fast-casual restaurant chain says it is targeting Central Florida and the Dallas metropolitan area specifically. The company recently debuted a new eatery in Winter Park and is preparing to open a location in Lake Mary, according to its website.

“Little Greek is on target for continued steady expansion,” says Nick Vojnovic, the company’s president, in a statement.

“In 2021, we have our eye on markets near Orlando and continued growth in the Dallas metro area. Houston is also on our radar.”

In all, the chain currently has 44 locations spread across six states — Florida, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio and Texas.

Along the Gulf Coast, the company operates restaurants in Carrollwood, Clearwater, Lakewood Ranch, Largo, New Port Richey, Palm Harbor, Tampa, Riverview and St. Petersburg, among others.

The company’s menu features traditional Greek dishes such as Souvlaki, Dolmades, Spanakopita and Baklava, among other favorites, according to its website.

“Our philosophy has always been slow and steady growth,” says Vojnovic. “Sometimes growing too fast can have its consequences.”