Another Giorgios Joint

Kipos Greek Taverna, set to open March 10 at 431 W. Franklin St., will blend contemporary flavors with classical Greek dishes, reflecting Bakatsias’ own memories of growing up in the small village of Karitsa in northern Greece. Bakatsias’ sister, Olga, is a member of the staff, and he says the restaurant reflects his family’s deeply rooted traditions.

Bakatsias says that Kipos, which means “garden” in Greek, will feature “an incredibly balanced cuisine,” with items such as freshly baked breads and phyllo, a Greek pastry dough; rotisserie with lamb; seasonal vegan and vegetarian dishes; a Greek wine list; and mezedes – or small plates – with local greens, cheeses and meats.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is large and open, with glass jar pendant lights and colorfully painted shelving units (several hold framed black-and-white photos of Bakatsias’ parents).

“Kipos is an everyday place,” he says. “It’s a place where you can enjoy diverse flavors with friends and good company. This corner has so much history; it’s a great neighborhood,” he says. “It’s so close to a lot of food culture, with Lantern down the street, and Vimala’s next door, and the farmers’ market close by. … It’s an amazing community feel here.”

Visit www.kiposgreektaverna.com or call (919) 425-0760 for more information.

BACKSTORY Kipos will occupy the former Pyewacket location in The Courtyard. The area has been under construction for months during a redevelopment project that will bring loft apartments, retail and a 90-car parking deck. TW