Junior's Grill facts for kids
Junior's Grill was a much-loved restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. It was found right on the Georgia Tech campus. This popular spot was a family business run by Tommy Klemis.
Students and staff loved Junior's for its tasty breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They especially enjoyed the French toast and crispy chicken fingers! Sadly, Junior's Grill closed its doors on April 21, 2011. Business had slowed down, and it was time for the restaurant to say goodbye.
Contents
The Story of Junior's Grill
How Junior's Grill Began
Junior's Grill first opened in 1948. It was started by Wilbur Gold Jr. and was called Pilgrim's back then. The first location was on North Avenue, close to the Georgia Tech campus.
Moving to New Locations
In 1958, the owners, James Klemis and John Chaknis, bought the restaurant. They changed its name to Junior's Grill. The Georgia Board of Regents planned to build new things in the area. So, Junior's had to move in 1967. It found a new home down the street, in what used to be a barbershop.
This new spot was smaller. So, in 1987, Junior's grew bigger by taking over the old Engineer's Bookstore next door. Later, the Georgia Tech Foundation bought the property. This was in case Atlanta hosted the Olympic Games.
The Olympic Games and a Final Move
Atlanta did host the 1996 Summer Olympics! Because of all the building work, Junior's had to close in October 1993. Many students and alumni wanted to save the restaurant. They asked the school to find it a new place.
Good news! Junior's re-opened in February 1994 in the Bradley Building. This was its final home on campus. It served delicious meals there until it closed for good on April 21, 2011.
The Junior's Grill Experience
A Favorite Spot for Students
Junior's Grill was a big part of student life at Georgia Tech. The student newspaper, The Technique, even said that eating at Junior's was a must-do for every student! They loved "Tommy" (Tommy Klemis), the owner, and his amazing food.
Popular Menu Items
Some of the most popular meals were the chicken fingers and burgers. These often came in "baskets" with French fries and a drink. Junior's also had a hot food line for breakfast and lunch. You could also order many other tasty items from the grill.
A Place Full of Memories
The restaurant was like a small museum for Georgia Tech. It had old photos of the campus and pictures of important alumni. There was even a piece of the goalpost from the school's 1990 National Championship win! It was a place full of history and school spirit.
Junior's Grill's Lasting Impact
The Klemis Kitchen Initiative
Even after Junior's Grill closed, its spirit of caring lived on. The Klemis Kitchen Initiative was created to help students. It's a food pantry for Georgia Tech students who need help getting enough to eat.
Honoring a Legacy
This project was named after Tommy Klemis. He often helped students in need when Junior's Grill was open. The Klemis Kitchen Initiative continues his kind work. It makes sure that students facing challenges can still get good food. It honors the history of Junior's Grill and all its employees.
