Today we’d like to introduce you to Waleed Farah.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I moved to McKinney four years ago from Baton Rouge, LA. I purchased a pizza parlor (Chicago St Pizza) that was struggling and changed it over to a Greek and Middle Eastern restaurant. My journey in the restaurant business started when I got laid off after the 9/11 events. I decided to go in business for myself (since I have many years of experience working in restaurants in college,) I took the plunge and moved (from Atlanta) to Baton Rouge and opened a coffee shop in 2002. And since then I have owned and managed a few shops from coffee shops to ice cream parlors to Mediterranean restaurants
When I moved here 4 years ago, I started Blue Olive Grill. In addition to the restaurant, I started Blue Olive Fresh which is the product line of the Blue Olive Grill. I developed a Mediterranean line of sauces, dressings, marinades, flavored (infused) olive oils, olive salads and olive salsas. So far, I only sell those products at the restaurant and at McKinney’s farmers market but I have plans to expand locally and regionally.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The first year was certainly a struggle since the location is kinda obscure and hidden but after that business has been good.
Please tell us about Blue Olive Grill.
Blue Olive Grill is a Greek and Middle Eastern restaurant with a touch of Indian cuisine.
With the exception of pita bread, pretty much everything is from scratch at the restaurant. No frozen (fries only!) stuff is used. Although Blue Olive Grill is what people call a hole in the wall, it is truly hidden gem. Our food is fresh, and tasty and service is outstanding. Our food is healthy.
No processed food, artificial ingredients are used especially with our product line. Other than pita, 98% of the menu is Gluten free. Frying is very minimal (only fries and falafel). We also have vegetarian and vegan options.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Watching my mother make/bake pita bread! Amazing sight and aroma!
Contact Info:
- Address: Blue Olive Grill
2414 W University Dr.,
McKinney, TX 75071 - Website: http://BlueOliveGrill.com
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
