Considering Going GREEK This Fall?

For some people, being part of a fraternity or sorority is a major part of their college identity. Like most things in life, Going Greek can be a mixed bag.

There are several considerations to being involved in Greek life:

1. Cost: This isn't something people give much thought too beforehand, but joining Greek life comes with some built-in expenses. Some costs include a recruitment fee, house fees and dues, a sorority pin, and social functions for both student and family. Many of these are optional, of course, but some are definitely not.

2. Alcohol use: Excessive and underage drinking is a common problem on college campuses in general, but peer pressure to drink can be even higher within the Greek system. This is something that many students deal with when they go to college, and certainly is something worth considering before deciding to join a fraternity or sorority.

3. Limitations: It's easy to let the Greek system become your entire world. Living in a fraternity or sorority gives you a place to belong at college, but it can become limiting as well. Remember to be involved outside of your sorority too.

4. Connections: Greek life is not the only way to meet new people, but it is one of the easiest ways. Being a part of a fraternity or sorority gives you an instant connection with a large group of people, and that network will continue to grow.

5. Events: Being in a sorority or fraternity provides many opportunities to engage in all kinds of events and activities, such as Homecoming Week, themed parties, serenades, philanthropy events, and theatrical productions. If these sound up your alley, definitely consider going Greek. Keep in mind, however, that some of these things can become major time commitments.

6. Belonging: It sounds cheesy, but a sorority or fraternity can become a home away from home, just as a dorm, group of friends, or campus organization can. Especially if moving into the house, my sorority sisters or brothers become the ones with whom you share everything—failed tests, lazy Sundays, new jobs, broken hearts, and game days, to name a few.

Before you go through recruitment, however, consider whether you will be comfortable living in a house with 70 other women or men. It is definitely a new experience, especially if you didn't grow up with siblings.

7. Stereotypes: It is undeniable that there are certain stereotypes associated with Greek life. There are people who will judge you for being in a sorority, or for which house you join. The important thing to remember is that each house has all types of students, so you shouldn't put too much stock in those who make assumptions about fraternity men or sorority women. This is another reason to be involved outside of your sorority. It can be just as rewarding to participate in activities that have to do with your academic focus or other interests.

Ziziki’s would be pleased to have you and your brothers or sisters come to dinner one night to celebrate. Remember - It’s fun to GO GREEK!

Thanks to Dallas News's Eats Blog!

If you keep up with the Eats Blog over at Dallas News, you probably know a little inside information about a little something we're working on here at Zizikis.

Wait, you haven't heard of Eats Blog? This is where the Dallas Morning News Restaurant Critic Leslie Brenner, Morning News Taste writers and arts staffers share news, updates and reviews from the Dallas dining scene. If you're a foodie living in DFW, you'll want to make their blog one of your frequent stops on the web.

Last month, Leslie wrote about The Commissary closing it's doors. In the same post she writes 'Costa and Mary Arabatzis, owners of Ziziki’s Restaurants, plan to open a Greek place, Meze, in the space in September.'

So there you have it...our surprise is out! We hope you're as excited as we are!

The Story of Greek Migrations To America

With the Olympics approaching we’re finding ourselves reflecting on our Greek Heritage. It’s a well-known fact that America is considered a melting pot. And as Greeks, we're glad to be one big ingredient in the pot!

Greeks began to settle in America at the end of the 19th century. By the outbreak of the First World War there were about 300,000 Greek immigrants in the United States. The main reason for leaving Greece wa unemployment, low wages and high prices. Most Greeks settled in cities where they tended to find menial, unskilled work.

Greek communities were often self-sufficient with their own churches, coffee house, mutual benefit societies and political clubs. Greek Orthodox religious festivals and traditions were strictly observed. By 1910 both New York and Chicago had Greek-language newspapers. Since 1820 over 655,000 people have emigrated to the United States from Greece.



The 1980s can be characterized as the start of a return to historical memory, a review of the path taken by Greeks in America. This was yet another opportunity for Greek-Americans to honor their unique heritage.

Today Greeks are found in every aspect of American culture far beyond restaurateurs. In fact, here are a few Greeks you might be familiar with:

• Tina Fey (S&L and Thirty Rock)
• Melina Kanakaredes (CSI NY)
• Michael Chiklis (The Shield)
• Yanni (famous musician)
• Telly Savalis (Kojak)
• Jennifer Aniston (Friends)
• Michael Dukakis (80s presidential candidate)
• Olympia Dukakis (actress)
• Nia Vardalos (Big Fat Greek Wedding)
• Billy Zane (Titanic)

Happy New Year From Zizikis and Zizikis Taverna

Wishing all of our amazing customers a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR. We wrapped up 2010 with a very special holiday party at Family Gateway.

Every year Mary and Costa & Family, as well as volunteers from Ziziki's staff prepare a meal to help homeless families at the shelter have a special holiday dinner. Family Gateway is our favorite charity. Since 1986, Family Gateway has supported families who have found themselves in dire need: homeless. They've offered over 7,600 children and parents the help they need to recover from crisis and make positive choices for their future.

We want to extend a special thanks to all of you who donated a gift through the toy drive at all of our locations.

Watching these children open their toys was truly the highlight of our evening, and we were honored to have served and supported such a great cause. Here's best wishes for all who helped, attended - and make the effort to support others during the holiday and throughout the year.