THE owners of an authentic Greek restaurant are hoping to take the business “to the next level” after applying for an alcohol licence two years after opening.
Just Greek, in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff, was opened back in 2022 by best friends Tsaropoulos Georgios, 41, and Emiliano Bardheci, 25.
Since then, it has become a growing success in the heart of Westcliff, bringing a different style of cuisine to the ever-growing list of restaurants in the area.
The business has now applied to Southend Council for a premises licence for the sale of alcohol, both on and off the premises, between 8am and 11pm daily.
Emiliano and Tsaropoulos are now hoping the ability to sell alcohol will allow them to boost business even further.
Emiliano said: “It has been great so far.
“We are still seeing improvements each month too, so have decided to apply for an alcohol licence to help us grow even further.
“We have regular customers now, and still new customers. We are attracting more and more people.
“But a lot of customers often ask for a beer or a wine, so having the licence will really help take the business to the next level by being able to provide that.”
The friends lived and grew up in Greece together before making the move to the UK about five years ago, settling in Wickford and launching the business.
Emiliano added: “We are lucky that there aren’t many Greek restaurants in the area, so we are unique.
“It has been mad since day one when we opened. We really thought we would struggle, but it has been great.
“The reviews have been excellent, and many people come in, then come back, and have stuck with us since.
“The best food is homemade food, and we pride ourselves on it.
“Many people love the food on our menu, and we also offer a new different dish every day for something different that people can try.
“People really enjoy that. It has been great.”
Southend Council will now decide on the application for the premises licence.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here