For Nick Syros, opening a new branch of Dimitri’s Grill in Clarkston is more than just expanding business ? it’s part of a 33-year family traditional.
Syros, 38, spent most of his life in Michigan and worked in the family business all his life. Syros? father, Dimitri Syros, opened the first Dimitri’s in 1972. Since then, the family has opened more than 50 branches throughout the state, and several years ago expanded further to Venice, Florida. Now, 66, the original Dimitri lives in Florida, managing the Venice branch.
Syros said he lived and worked in Florida for the last four and a half years before moving to Independence Township a few months ago. He said the decision to move was influenced in part by hurricane activity, saying his family just barely avoided the destruction of hurricane Charlie last year.
‘This is more of a steady, year-round lifestyle,? Syros said. Syros added that business was much more seasonal in Florida
Given the chain’s history in the metro-Detroit area, most people should be familiar with what to expect.
‘This is a casual, family-dinning restaurant,? said Syros. ‘We have a lot of home cooking. We’ve got some Greek food. It’s reasonably priced. The portions are good. Everything here is made on the premises.?
Selections include a variety of soups and salads (including ‘Dimitri’s Famous Greek Salad?) pitas, sandwiches, burgers and Greek meals. Favorites include spinach pie, shish kebab and the Greek Combo platter. Dimitri’s Grill also features a breakfast menu with traditional breakfast food and greek and gyro omelettes. In addition to the everyday menu items, Syros said there are daily specials.
Syros is also working to give customers what they want. Though not originally available, Syros said he is adding coney dogs to the menu after receiving several requests.
Don’t have time to sit down and enjoy a meal? Syros said customers can call ahead for take-out orders.
‘We’re big on carry-out here. We try to be fast. We try to be efficient,? Syros said.
Regardless if a customer is ordering breakfast, lunch or dinner, Syros said most orders are ready in 20 minutes.
Syros and his wife Terri have been married for 15 years. The couple has three children ? Dimitri, 12; Alina, 10 and Julianna, 17 months.
Dimitri’s Grill is located at 7743 Sashabaw Rd. at the corner of Clarkston Road. Dimitri’s Grill is open seven days a week. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. To place an order, call 248-625-1111.