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Baltimoreans Celebrate A Week Of Greek Independence

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Baltimore is getting ready to celebrate the 190th anniversary of Greek independence in a very big way. If you love Mediterranean food and wine, you'll love what's happening.

Ron Matz reports Greek Week is all about food, fun and family.

Welcome to Greektown, where people find good friends and great food at some long-time Baltimore favorites. It's Baltimore Greek Week, a celebration of the independence of the Mediterranean nation.

"The Baltimore Piraeus Sister City committee, a non-profit out of City Hall, came up with the idea of Baltimore Greek Week in order to celebrate our culture, our heritage and Greek independence. It's the 190th anniversary of Greek independence this week and that's why we're doing this. We want everyone to share and appreciate our love for our native culture and the cuisine. What is there not to like about Greek food?" said Gayle Economos, Baltimore Greek Week. "I believe it's the first time so many Greek establishments have gotten together for a common cause and that cause is celebrating Greek Independence Day. It's from now until March 27 and the grand finale of Baltimore Greek Week is the Greek Independence Day parade, which starts at 2 p.m. in Greektown on Sunday March 27."

The new Inn at the Black Olive has it all--lobster and shrimp, Greek breads, olives and more.

"This particular market is an extension of the Black Olive Restaurant, which has been around for about 15 years. The genesis of this market is a response to many of our customers who always ask: where can I get this wonderful bread? Where can I get this feta cheese? Where can I get the elements that make up your cuisine? That gave me the idea," said Stelios Spiliadis, Inn at the Black Olive. "This building also has three stories of suites and another restaurant will be on the top of the fifth floor. We are also going to have a wine bar."

It's a lesson in Greek cuisine from owner Spiliadis.

"The overall goal of my family has been to put Greek food, wine and hospitality within the context of the best there is around. Our cuisine in its simplicity brings about a wonderful taste with a health component that you don't find anywhere else," said Spiliadis.

More than 20 Baltimore area Greek and Greek-American owned restaurants and businesses are part of the big celebration.

The big celebration week will end with Sunday's Greek Independence Day parade.

For more information on Baltimore Greek Week, click here.

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