Sam Karos and his family have been in the seafood business for nearly 30 years, but they shifted gears earlier this year to open their first Greek restaurant. Veterans of the Myrtle Beach restaurant scene, they moved to Wilmington to open The Fat Greek Taverna at 6309 Market St.
 
“I wanted to help my son Alexander open a restaurant in his name,” said Sam Karos. “But unfortunately, although business has been steady, it has not been enough to sustain us.”

So the family decided to go back to what they do best: Calabash seafood. Sea Captain’s Calabash Seafood opened in the former Greek eatery space Saturday, offering a variety of fried, broiled and grilled seafood as well as steak and chicken. Seafood baskets, platters and sandwiches start at $5.99.

“We offer excellent quality seafood at a price that’s very reasonable, well below many of our competitors,” Karos said. “We’ve maintained great relationships with our providers over the years and that allows us to keep the quality up and the prices down.”

The 4,000-square-foot building has seen its fair share of turnover in recent years. It housed Fratelli’s Italian Buffet from 2006 to 2008, Café Basil Italian Grill from 2008 to 2009, Well-Seasoned in 2010, Sister Cats in 2011 and Frank’s Classic American Grill from 2012 to 2013. Years ago the location was home to Market Street Casual Dining.

Karos was originally a managing partner with Seafest Seafood Buffet at 300 N. Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina Beach. He said he left the partnership after just a few months, citing disputes over management, regulations and finances. The restaurant is now closed for the winter.

The restaurateur hasn't given up on his roots cuisine. Karos said he and his son hope to find another location in Wilmington that is more suited to their Greek concept, perhaps downtown or near the university.

“We believe that with the right location we can be very successful with the Greek restaurant,” said Karos.

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