Fast-casual chain restaurant Nick the Greek will take over Pietris Greek Bakery and Restaurant’s Belmont Shore location with a grand opening targeted for mid-June.
Nick the Greek is a family-owned and operated chain that’s fast-growing and health-focused, offering “flavorful rotisserie meats, charbroiled skewers, zesty sauces, and the freshest of vegetables.”
On Feb. 11, the Pietris Bakery Facebook page announced it would be adding a new concept with “more Greek menu items” to their location and included a rendering of the new Nick the Greek storefront.
The chain has rapidly expanded over the past year with six locations in L.A. County and, in addition to the Long Beach location, another location in Marina del Rey also opening soon.
Nick the Greek franchisees Evgenia and Aristos Mantas have taken over ownership and operation of the Belmont Shore location, which will be their second Nick the Greek. The couple, who live in Orange County, also own and operate a store in Huntington Beach, which is scheduled to open soon. They are looking to open more locations in the greater L.A. area.
A redesign of the interior is underway, although the Pietris logo remains on the outside of the building for now.
The 3,500-square-foot location will have a family atmosphere, modern, Greek-inspired decor and an open storefront.
The location was the logical spot to open the first Long Beach Nick the Greek, especially because the neighborhood was already familiar with Greek cuisine.
Long Beach’s location will be unique in that it will have a bar featuring 12 taps. Some Greek beers will be available, as well as wine pairings.
The coffee shop will be a future buildout within the space, and the name is yet to be decided.
And while the beloved Pietris desserts will no longer be available, Nick the Greek will serve traditional Greek baklava and fresh Greek donut holes.
The restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with possibly extended hours until 2 a.m., Parisis said.
A grand opening date has not officially been announced, but the family plans to celebrate with a free lunch for the surrounding neighbors.
Nick the Greek will be located at 5000 E 2nd Street.
