Ballantyne Restaurants

If you've read a handful of my posts, you know I'm a fan of gyros. When made properly, that classic Greek interpretation  of a street meat sandwich is a thing of beauty and splendor.  Given my druthers I hit up Little Village Grill for the best gyro in Charlotte but since I live south of Uptown, making the trip over to Gateway Village on a weekend isn't very sensible. Luckily for me, another gyro-fiend told me I needed to check out Greco Fresh Grille in the sprawling shopping complex over in Blakeney at the intersection of Rea Road and Ardrey Kell Road.

The decor and menu are simple, direct, and to the point. The omnipresent blue and white of the Grecian standard adorn everything. Soft music tinkers in the background. You walk up to the glass in front of the prep line, peruse the handful of options on the menu, and the line cooks start working the grill the second you place the order. A couple photos and paintings of the domed white-washed iconic structures lining the cliffs of the Greek Isles accent the walls. The place is new and feels bright and open with lots of windows to let you watch shoppers strolling the sidewalks. You can also take a place on the patio out back and let rambunctious kids burn off some energy on the playground or the small open field near the outdoor seating. And like most Greek places, it is a family affair.

A slathering of creamy fresh tzatziki, tender slices of slow-roasted seasoned beef and lamb, a warm pita, crunchy onions and juicy tomatoes. Perhaps a dash of salt and pepper. These are the fundamental ingredients for a solid gyro and while the components are simple, it is easy to cut corners or drop the ball. Just think of those overly-greasy, sloppy gut bombs you get at street fairs and festivals (ahem, Yiasou). Greco Fresh Grille  distinguishes itself by omitting the processed junk and additives from the menu options and preparing the dishes with real ingredients. The prices are very fair for this side of town and the service was prompt and friendly and inviting which I've come to expect from Greek joints. I'd go back.

If you like gyros and need a fix in South Charlotte, tell the folks at Greco Fresh Grille that Restaurant Traffic sent you. And be sure to order the lemon-thyme fries.

Please let us know what you thought in the Comments section.

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