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Putting Pork Belly in a Gyro

Nick the Greek | Based in San Jose, Calif.

Putting Pork Belly in a Gyro

Nick the Greek | Based in San Jose, Calif.

By Patricia Fitzgerald
July 19, 2024

By Patricia Fitzgerald
July 19, 2024

Nick Tsigaris

When three Greek-American cousins, each named Nick, sought in vain to find high-quality gyros near their California home that matched the authenticity of the street offerings in Greece, they decided to do something about it. They launched Nick the Greek, a multi-unit quick-service concept that menus several gyro varieties, including the Pork Belly Gyro. “This handheld is a staple in Greek cuisine, but it’s not commonly offered in America,” says Nick Tsigaris, president. “This is because it’s traditionally prepared with specific ingredients and techniques that are less common outside of Greece.”

At Nick the Greek, an embrace of those techniques starts with slow-roasting marinated pork belly on a vertical rotisserie. “Tender slices are tucked into warm, soft pita bread and topped with thinly sliced red onions, ripe Roma tomatoes, golden fries seasoned with paprika—adding a satisfying crunch—and then drizzled generously with creamy tzatziki sauce,” says Tsigaris. “Customers often reorder it because its unique flavor, quality and convenience make it a satisfying choice. And once they try it, they’re hooked.”

Read more Best of Flavor 2024

About the Author

mmPatricia Fitzgerald serves different roles on the Flavor & The Menu team, including writing custom content, Kitchen Collaborative chef spotlights and digital editorial content, as well as acting as a contributing editor for the print magazine. As owner of PFitzCommunications, she specializes in various areas of foodservice and hospitality, while also maintaining clients in other industries and professions. She can be reached at [email protected].

About The Author

Patricia Fitzgerald

Patricia Fitzgerald serves different roles on the Flavor & The Menu team, including writing custom content, Kitchen Collaborative chef spotlights and digital editorial content, as well as acting as a contributing editor for the print magazine. As owner of PFitzCommunications, she specializes in various areas of foodservice and hospitality, while also maintaining clients in other industries and professions. She can be reached at [email protected].