Olga Loizon, founder of the popular restaurant chain Olga’s Kitchen, had humble beginnings in the city of Birmingham, Michigan. Born in Greece in 1926, Olga immigrated to the United States at the age of 12 with her family, settling in Detroit, Michigan.
As a young woman, Olga worked various jobs, including as a waitress at a Detroit restaurant, where she observed the inner workings of the restaurant industry. She eventually married and had three children, but her desire to own her own business never waned.
In 1970, Olga opened the first Olga’s Kitchen in Birmingham, Michigan. The concept was simple yet unique: grilled pita bread filled with a variety of fresh ingredients, including seasoned meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The dish quickly became a local favorite, and the restaurant’s popularity led to the opening of additional locations in the Detroit area.
Olga’s Kitchen continued to expand throughout Michigan and beyond, eventually growing into a nationwide chain with over 25 locations. Despite the chain’s success, Olga never lost sight of her commitment to quality and fresh ingredients, which she believed were key to her restaurant’s success.
In addition to her entrepreneurial success, Olga was also known for her philanthropic efforts, donating time and resources to various charitable organizations in the Detroit area.
Olga passed away in 2015 at the age of 89, but her legacy lives on through her namesake restaurant chain and the countless people she inspired through her hard work, dedication, and commitment to quality.
