Inspired By Family Roots, New Greek Restaurant To Open In Hillsborough

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Pulling from his Greek heritage and a decade of restaurant management experience, Somerset resident Dimitri Manioudakis is achieving his dream of opening his own restaurant.

Since Manioudakis was younger, he had always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. Now, just about a month away, his dream is coming to fruition.

"I think Greek cuisine is something everyone loves, and that's what I always wanted to open since I was little," said Manioudakis. "Just sharing family recipes, traditional recipes."

Manioudakis is planning to open Rizes Greek Taverna, a BYOB restaurant serving up authentic Greek flavors, in late October or early November.

He is taking over the location formerly known as Cafe Basilico at Kingsbridge Shopping Center at 378 S Branch Rd. in Hillsborough.

The name Rizes has a deep meaning to Manioudakis and his Greek heritage. Rizes in Greek means roots, family bond, and deep connections to tradition.

"Specifically in Crete, the island that I'm from, it has more meaning," said Manioudakis. "In Crete, Rizes means more than roots. Rizes is used to count olive trees, and each Rizes, that's an individual olive tree, each Rizes is a living story passed through generations."

And that's exactly what Manioudakis is hoping to share in his restaurant - family bonds and traditions.

"A lot of our recipes are going to come directly from my mom, my grandmother. Growing up always eating these traditional dishes," said Manioudakis.

Overall, Manioudakis is "super excited" to open the doors and start meeting customers.

"Part of the business, I feel like, is just getting to know your customers," said Manioudakis. "Getting regular customers, getting people in to come down, enjoy the food, create a good atmosphere, and at the same time, doing what you love."

For more information, visit rizesgreektaverna.com or instagram.com/rizesgreektaverna or facebook.com.

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