New Greek restaurant opens in North County

Sep 3, 2025 - 16:00

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Local food lovers now have a new destination for authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine -- and it's located in North County.

A fast-casual restaurant -- The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill -- officially opened its doors this month at 1830 Rancho Del Oro Rd, Suite 150 in Oceanside. The area is home to the newly developed Arroyo Verde Shopping Center, which isn't far from Frontwave Arena.

Owned and operated by Sam Sawiris, the new business offers a menu of Mediterranean favorites made from family recipes passed down through generations. Sawiris, who spent years in Greece and Cyprus, says he's excited to share the flavors and hospitality that inspired him during his time abroad.

“And it’s not just the food but the presentation too," said Sawiris. "I am so excited to serve the community and build new connections with my guests.”

A dish at The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill in Oceanside, Calif. (Photo courtesy of The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill)

The menu features popular items like "The Great Greek Gyro," customizable souvlaki plates" and rice bowls with protein options such as lamb, steak, chicken, or shrimp. Guests can also enjoy crisp Greek salads and house-made dips, including tzatziki, hummus, melitzanosalata (eggplant), and tirokafteri (a spicy roasted red pepper dip).

For those with a sweet tooth, desserts like Baklava, rice pudding, and even Baklava ice cream are made in-house. The full menu can be reviewed here.

In addition to dine-in service, the restaurant offers pickup, delivery and catering options -- perfect for family gatherings, office lunches or special events. Catering options include build-your-own gyro kits and souvlaki skewers.

The new 2,000-square-foot space seats 48 guests indoors and another 36 on the outdoor patio. The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and then from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Saturday.