Epic Collaboration: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greek Chefs Unite to Showcase Greece’s Culinary Heritage

Greek From Greece Cafe is teaming up with 2019 NBA MVP and All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family to introduce the flavors and culture of Greece to America.

 

 

NBA's Giannis Antetokounmpo opening Greek From Greece Cafe | Fast Casual

 

Renowned among basketball fans as the “Greek Freak” for his impressive blend of ball-handling skills, size, and speed, Antetokounmpo was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian parents. He found a deep connection with GFG Cafe Cuisine’s authentic flavors and strong family values.

“What truly won me over is GFG’s commitment to family above all else,” Antetokounmpo stated in a company press release. “They share the same values my family and I cherish—loyalty and lasting relationships. Their offerings embody delightful tastes, captivating aromas, and a vibrant culture that my brothers and I simply can’t resist.”

 

Pro Basketball Star Giannis Antetokounmpo Is Teaming Up with Top Greek Fast Casual Brand | RestaurantNews.com

GFG Cafe Cuisine was established in 2017 by CEO Georgios Drosos and a group of entrepreneurs who shared a vision.

“We serve our customers ‘the Greek Way,’ just as we would feed our family at home,” Drosos explained. “All our dishes are crafted from 776 authentic Greek ingredients, meticulously sourced from the finest olive and citrus groves, vineyards, wheat fields, and beehives. We understand good food, and we’re excited to share it with the world.”

 

Giannis Antetokounmpo maintains bond with fans in Athens, Greece

In the first half of 2020, GFG Cafe Cuisine announced the launch of its inaugural franchise location in Philadelphia, expanded its presence across Long Island and Stamford, New York, with 31 new outlets, and merged with its largest competitor in Manhattan, rebranding in the process.

With these new openings, GFG Cafe Cuisine will boast over 41 locations, reinforcing its status as the leader in Greek cuisine. The brand anticipates that by year-end, more than 100 units will be either operational or in development, thanks to ongoing expansion efforts.

“They’re like a freight train racing across the country,” remarked Dan Rowe, founder and CEO of Fransmart, GFG Cafe Cuisine’s franchising partner. “Even during these challenging times for the restaurant industry, GFG keeps signing deals, building, and opening new locations. Their team is driven and is creating fantastic opportunities for standout franchisees.”

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GFG Cafe Cuisine is actively seeking experienced multi-unit foodservice operators while exploring potential markets both domestically and internationally, Rowe stated.

“For years, I’ve been looking for a way to return to Greece at any moment, and now I’ve found it,” Antetokounmpo shared.

“GFG offers me the chance to introduce America to everything we cherish about Greek everyday life, a culture that knows no boundaries. For many years, America has provided my family and me with opportunities to experience and appreciate diverse cultures. Now it’s our turn to give back. I’m confident that America will embrace our culture and flavors, making them a part of their way of life.”