Little Greek Fresh Grill

by Jeannine Gage 

Little Greek Fresh Grill in Lake Mary is owned and operated by a local resident who strives to serve great food in the community he calls home.

A Lake Mary native, Scott Lyon worked in the restaurant industry while he was a student at Lake Mary High, Seminole State College, and the University of Central Florida. Scott then enjoyed a career in financial services for residential homebuilders for more than two decades before returning to his restaurant roots in 2024, when he purchased Little Greek’s Lake Mary location at 237 Wheelhouse Lane.

“I always had restaurants in my blood,” he says. “I knew I’d come back to it someday.”

Scott brings a renewed energy to the fast-casual Greek eatery. Since taking over, he has enhanced the restaurant’s lighting and updated the menu boards from print to digital. Improvements to the outdoor seating and entrance and the addition of booths inside Little Greek Lake Mary are on the horizon, too.

Known for its fresh, made-to-order approach, Little Greek sets itself apart by bringing in fresh vegetables for pitas, wraps, and salads. The hand-rolled dolmades, tzatziki, and Greek dressing are all made from scratch daily. Proteins are marinated in a special Little Greek blend and grilled to order. The homemade rice pudding is not to be missed.

Scott, who owns three Little Greek restaurants in Central Florida, was drawn to the company’s growth philosophy.

“We’re not trying to be on every corner,” he says. “We want to maintain that local, neighborhood feel, even as we grow.”

Most Little Greek locations have a family vibe with multiple generations working together in the store. In Lake Mary, for instance, the general manager’s son works with her, as does one of her son’s best friends. The Lake Mary staff also includes a trio of siblings, and Scott’s daughter has worked some special events and hints at joining the team part-time this summer and in her upcoming senior year of high school. 

Little Greek rolled out a new website for all its locations in April with a refreshed look, all new photography, and easier online ordering. Coming soon will be the ability to order catering directly from the website, too, including the beloved BYO (Build-Your-Own) Pita bar. Customers will also be able to order individual meals for groups, larger buffet-style platters, Souvlaki dinners, beautiful Greek salads, and desserts. Catering can be purchased as drop-off and setup service only or full service for larger parties if scheduled far enough in advance.

Whether customers dine-in, take their Little Greek to go, or order catering, Scott loves the opportunity to help his neighbors connect.

“People come here to enjoy themselves,” he says. “We get to be part of birthdays, anniversaries – moments people look forward to.”