E319: Greek Fusion in Port St. Lucie

E319: What makes Think Greek a good neighbor?  

Think Greek: A Culinary Journey from Food Truck to Local Favorite

The story of Think Greek is a testament to culinary entrepreneurship and cultural passion. Beginning in 2014 as a humble food truck traversing Florida, this Greek eatery has evolved into a beloved local institution with locations in both Port St. Lucie and Stewart. Founded by New York transplants who recognized a gap in the local food scene, Think Greek brings authentic, generational recipes to the Treasure Coast while innovating with fusion dishes that have earned national recognition.

What sets Think Greek apart from other Mediterranean eateries is their dual approach to Greek cuisine. As Roseanne explained, they honor traditional dishes like spanakopita, pistachio, and moussaka, preparing them according to family recipes passed down through generations. Simultaneously, they've pioneered what they call "Greek fusion" – taking familiar Greek flavors and incorporating them into accessible formats like loaded Greek fries, Greek quesadillas, and Greek nachos. Perhaps their most notable creation is the "Yuripitakia," a unique dish featured on Food Network that combines Greek ingredients with Asian-inspired wonton wrappers, exemplifying their inventive approach to cultural cuisine.

One fascinating insight Roseanne shared addresses a common misconception about Greek food. Many customers expect standardized versions of Greek dishes, not realizing that regional variations exist throughout Greece – much like the differences between vinegar-based and dry-rub barbecue across American regions, or the contrasting culinary traditions of Northern and Southern Italy. This educational aspect of their business helps customers appreciate the authentic diversity within Greek cuisine, enriching the dining experience beyond mere consumption.

Inclusivity stands as a cornerstone of Think Greek's philosophy. Understanding that Greek culture centers around bringing people together through food, they've developed extensive vegan options alongside their traditional meat-based offerings. This ensures that dietary restrictions or preferences don't prevent anyone from participating in the communal dining experience so central to Mediterranean culture. Their commitment to accommodating diverse needs while maintaining authentic flavors demonstrates a thoughtful approach to modern restaurant management.

Running a family-owned restaurant hasn't been without challenges. Roseanne candidly discussed the difficulties of launching and sustaining a business, from dealing with naysayers to maintaining confidence in their product and approach. Their perseverance through these obstacles reveals the passion driving Think Greek's success – a deep belief in their food, their team, and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the local culinary landscape. Their story reminds us that behind every successful local business lies countless hours of dedication, creative problem-solving, and a willingness to adapt while staying true to core values.

To learn more about Think Greek go to: 

https://www.thinkgreekfl.com/