CHARLOTTE, NC – There’s no shortage of Greeks or Greek eateries in Charlotte, NC, but arguably one of the most genuine must be The Mad Greek that began 30 years ago as Hugo’s, changing its name in 2008.

It was first named for a hurricane that slammed the city in 1989, opened by brothers Chris and George Limberakis, who came to the United States in the early 1970s from the tiny Ionian island of Lefkada.

It became a popular joint for late-night service and classic diner fare with a handful of Greek classics, said The Charlotte Observer, reporting that Chris and his son Peyton and family members now run it.

With its color scheme it practically screams Greece, featuring plenty of photos and maps of the homeland. “It gives it a little Greek,” Limberakis’ son told the paper.

He wears more than one hat, or apron. He’s Marketing Director, Operations Manager, server, cashier, and General Supervisor.

If you want the real atmosphere of Greece, come in from 3-5 PM when the Greeks come. “You can hear them hollering on the back patio, playing backgammon and drinking coffee,” he said.