A familiar force in Boston’s Greek dining scene is striking out on his own.
Chef Brendan Pelley, an award-winning chef and Culinary Director at Xenia Greek Hospitality, is preparing to open Kri Kri Grill this summer in his hometown of Chelmsford.
The 36-seat restaurant will take over the former Pita space at 18 Boston Rd, Suite 200, bringing a casual, counter-service concept to the northwest suburbs of Boston, according to a press release.
While Pelley boasts more than 25 years of experience shaping Boston’s dining scene, Kri Kri will be his first independent venture. The restaurant’s name pays homage to the kri kri, a wild mountain goat of Crete known for its “authenticity, resilience, and deep ties to the land.”
The concept itself draws deeply from Pelley’s Greek American heritage, inspired both by the neighborhood tavernas of his youth—like the now-shuttered longtime Lowell favorite, Olympia—and the traditional tavernas he fell in love with during years of travel throughout Greece.
The menu reflects that foundation, blending homestyle Greek comfort food with personal, thoughtful touches. Expect housemade pita bread, hand-stacked slow-roasted meats, scratch-made gyros, hand-cut fries, meze, and sustainable seafood, alongside family recipes like avgolemono soup, dolmades, and his Papou’s spanakopita.
Homemade ice cream will also be available, featuring Greek-inspired flavors and even a nod to Chelmsford Ginger Ale, as well as a curated selection of Greek beer, wine, and traditional café beverages.
“Wow! The response has been so great to the @krikrigrill launch,” wrote Pelley in a recent Instagram update. “Construction is well underway and I have big news coming real soon…”
To help fund the project, Pelley has launched a NuMarket campaign inviting early supporters to “buy in” for future dining credits and perks, with contributors receiving 120% back to spend once the restaurant opens.
In addition to its 36 seats, Kri Kri Grill will feature a seasonal outdoor patio and offer takeout, delivery, and a corporate and events catering program. Be sure to follow @krikrigrill on Instagram for the latest sneak peeks and grand opening updates.
