The owner of a new Greek restaurant in Dundee says he made the decision to open after realising there is nothing else like it in the city.
Andreou’s, which will also contain a cafe/takeaway upstairs, will open at the start of August after a big renovation project.
Located next to Meadowside St Paul’s Church on Nethergate, it will offer up traditional Greek-Cypriot cuisine.
The name Andreou originates from Andrew McDonald’s Greek-Cypriot mother who was born in a small village near Famagusta.
Branch extension of Andreou’s Bistro in Arbroath
The Mediterranean spot will be owner Andrew’s second branch, having opened a restaurant under the same name in Arbroath in January 2018.
Andrew, who is also head chef, said: “There’s a massive gap in the market here for Greek food.
“There’s obviously places which offer up a similar cuisine in terms of Mediterranean food but we will be the first in Dundee that will be authentically Greek.
“Andreou’s Bistro in Arbroath, which also contains The Little Greek Shop, has been great, people have loved it, so I wanted to expand.
“The place in Dundee was rundown with cracks in the walls so it has been a challenge getting the place fixed up.
“But it’s beautiful building so it will be worth it in the end.
“We are planning on putting in outside seating round the side of the restaurant too, which will be really nice.”
Andrew’s mother Kyriaki met his father Colin after he was sent to Cyprus by the Army following the Turkish invasion.
The pair returned to Arbroath and raised a family with Andrew taking inspiration from both his mother and visits to the Mediterranean.
Gyros and stews on menu
Andrew says cooking is in his blood and plans to serve up dishes such as gyros, souvlaki and moussaka.
He added: “Whenever we go over [to Cyprus] there’s always a big spread of fresh food and I’ve always loved it.
“I’m self-taught and have also learned a lot from my mum, who will be making some of the dishes such as chicken filo pastry pie.
“As well as all the Greek favourites in the restaurant, we’ll be offering up stifado (a stew), soup, and Greek salad in the cafe.
“We’ll also have imported items from Greece so everything is authentic.”
It is hoped the business will launch on August 3 after the fit-out is completed.
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