Zorbas Greek Restaurant: A Top 10 Best of Downtwon Sanford Winner

ZORBAS GREEK RESTAURANT:

A TOP 10 Best of Downtown Sanford Winner

BY ALLISON VAN TILBORGH

Zorbas Greek Restaurant secures yet another Best of Sanford win with its 2022 recognition as part of the Top 10 Best of Downtown Sanford. From Spanakopita to classic Gyros, Zorbas has you covered–specializing in Sanford’s freshest, most authentic Greek cuisine. “What makes us exclusive is our healthy, unique style of cooking, a well-trained staff, and an immaculately clean place to enjoy your meal,” said owners Tony and Nancy Paitaris.

Winning this prestigious award means so much to the Zorbas family. In 2016 and 2017, they won awards for Best Greek Restaurant, with a 2018 win in the Best Mediterranean Cuisine category. Now, this 2022 award for Top 10 in Sanford, is the “olive on top.” “It feels great to know people pay attention and recognize the difference,” said Chef Tony.

Born in the ouzo capital of the world, Lesvos, Greece, Chef Tony came to the United States as a preteen, where he claims to have been bitten by the “food industry bug”. “Although I have many trades under my belt,” Tony tells us, meditating on his immigration journey, “the cooking opportunity is what I enjoy the best.”

Zorbas originally opened in 2010 in Debary, but when an opportunity to move to Sanford opened up, they jumped on it. “The aesthetics drove us to Sanford, and it's only gotten better every year,” said Chef Tony. The business grows by 20% each year, and for a good reason. Their robust menu covers classic Greek appetizers, including a vast array of spreads (such as their famous Whole Roasted Garlic Spread) and meat offerings (like their Lamb Chops), but also modern twists on favorites such as Pesto Feta Pizza and Fettuccine Alfredo. “Our food is not processed but is wholesome, and made in-house,” said Chef Tony. “There is something for everyone to enjoy.” When asked about their keys to success, Tony and Nancy said, “Working from 5 am until closing time, along with 50 years of experience.” Beyond their high-quality food, they also cite their great staff. “Our staff is knowledgeable and loves to tell the customers about what we have to offer,” Nancy explains. To say that owners Tony and Nancy Paitaris are passionate about promoting the benefits of a healthy Mediterranean diet is an understatement.

If you haven’t already visited Zorbas Greek Restaurant on 1st Street, the next time you are in the area, be sure to stop by for a Top 10 meal. They would love to have you! n

Owners Chef Tony and Nancy Paitaris (center) and staff celebrate winning the Top 10 in Sanford award

l-r: Chef Tony and Nancy Paitaris, Kevin O'Brien Two chefs, who have worked together for the last 10 years, make the perfect team in knowledge and experience