Tampa-based Little Greek Fresh Grill, a fast-casual Greek restaurant with an American influence, has signed a 20-unit agreement to develop locations in the Atlanta market.

“We are excited about our recent entry into the Atlanta area,” says Little Greek president Nick Vojnovic. “We’re up and running in Kennesaw, Georgia. The initial reception has been bigger than we anticipated.”

The plan calls for expansion in Cobb and Fulton, as well as 10 other surrounding counties. The franchise operators for the area are Rob Wolfenden and Cliff Longshore. Both operate the Kennesaw location. Wolfenden and Longshore have previously worked with national restaurants including Rio Bravo Cantina, Chilis, Wild Wing Café, and Pure Taqueria throughout the Southeast.

“We want to build the Little Greek Fresh Grill brand in the area,” Wolfenden says. “It is a brand based on integrity, quality, and a family-friendly atmosphere.”

Founded in Tampa Bay, Little Greek Fresh Grill currently has 26 locations in five states (Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, and Texas). The Kennesaw location opened in March.

“We’ve had our eyes on Georgia for quite some time,” Vojnovic adds. “We think Little Greek Fresh Grill is a perfect fit for this market. The Greek-Mediterranean

segment is exploding. Americans are discovering this healthy, delicious cuisine.”