The fast-casual chain will take over a 1,500-square-foot space at 1380 Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach, previously occupied by Donut Bar, and a new spot at 1830 Rancho Del Oro Road., Suite 150, within Arroyo Verde Shopping Center in Oceanside, bringing its bold, authentic flavors to both coastal neighborhoods.
In Pacific Beach, The Great Greek moves into a retail plaza on Garnet Avenue shared with Local H2O water store and Desserts By Clément, a Parisian-style patisserie. The space last housed Donut Bar, which closed in late October 2024 after nearly six years of serving oversized, artfully decorated doughnuts. Meanwhile, the Oceanside location marks the chain's first venture into North County.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill first arrived in San Diego in February 2023 with its Kearny Mesa location at 7951 Othello Avenue, Suite 104, marking its California debut. Founded in 2011 by third-generation restaurateurs Nick A. Della Penna and Trent Jones, the chain combines over 30 years of culinary expertise into a fast-casual concept that has earned national recognition for its authentic Mediterranean fare. Franchise owner and San Diego native Manish Sharma, who spearheaded the Kearny Mesa opening, aimed to share generational recipes with his hometown, emphasizing a mission to "Live Your Life Deliciously."
The new Pacific Beach and Oceanside locations will feature the same Mediterranean classics that have made the Kearny Mesa outpost a hit. Diners can expect the signature Great Greek Gyro, packed with seasoned meats and fresh toppings, as well as souvlaki plates with options like lamb, steak, or chicken. The menu also highlights four house-made dips—hummus, tzatziki, melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), and tirokafteri (spicy roasted red pepper)—served with warm pita. For dessert, offerings include baklava ice cream and in-house rice pudding, providing a sweet end to the meal.
Both The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill locations in Pacific Beach and Oceanside are slated to open later this year. For more information, visit thegreatgreekgrill.com.
Originally published on March 27, 2025. Following publication of this article, we were notified that The Great Greek "decided to no longer move forward" on the Pacific Beach location.
