Alexandros Grimpas made news in February when he was forced to close the Malibu Diner, a Chelsea restaurant known for offering discounted meals to blind residents living nearby. Now, Grimpas is planning to open a two-story Greek restaurant just a few blocks away at 170 7th Ave. According to documents filed with Community Board 4, the yet-to-be-named restaurant (under Gordian Knot GR Inc.) will offer classic Greek dishes like spanakopita, gyro, avgolemono soup, and a range of kebabs. Grimpas is seeking a full liquor license and has plans for live music on the first floor. The restaurant will have a seating capacity for 88 guests, including 9 bar seats. An opening date has not been announced, and What Now New York has reached out for more information.
In February, The New York Times reported on the Malibu Diner closing after Grimpas could not reach a lease deal with the building’s owner. The diner had been offering discounted meals, served at a loss, to blind guests coming over from the nearby Selis Manor apartment complex, which accommodates people with visual impairments. As a result, the diner has become a hub for people in that community.
