The story
Parizade, the flagship restaurant of the Giorgios Group, has been a Durham institution for more than three decades. Founded by nationally known restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias, it remains a place where “ingredients, cooking, and flavors are a culture of the heart.” The restaurant’s commitment to high standards in quality, service, and personality has made it a lasting presence on West Main Street.
The atmosphere is whimsical yet refined—what the team calls a “theater for the palette.” Bakatsias himself puts it simply: “When creating a theater for the palette, it's important to invite the eyes too.” That sensibility carries through the dining room, where Mediterranean hospitality meets a warm, welcoming energy.
Executive Chef Jason Lawless leads the kitchen. He trained in some of the most discerning restaurants in the country and brings a passion for flavor and precision to every plate. The menu is rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients from both land and sea. Dishes range from spreads like organic green chickpea hummus and spicy red pepper & feta to grilled octopus with shaved fennel and smoked tomato vinaigrette. Pastas, such as bucatini with pesto alfredo and ricotta gnocchi with lamb & beef bolognese, sit alongside mains like roasted branzino and Australian lamb chops.
The wine program is a standout. Parizade earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024, reflecting a carefully curated list that complements the Mediterranean flavors at play. A dedicated wine director, Karina Stong, oversees the selection, and the restaurant also offers a robust bar menu with craft cocktails, beers, and aperitivos.
Private dining and event options are available, and the restaurant regularly hosts themed dinners, like the Coastal Italian Summer Wine Dinner. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, Parizade delivers what it promises: “the theater, hospitality, and nourishment of the Mediterranean.”
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
Facebook
Instagram
X