Balos Estiatorio, which opened in October 2018 at 46 South Main St. in West Hartford’s Blue Back Square, will reopen following a revamping of the menu and concept.

By Ronni Newton

Balos, at 46 South Main St. in West Hartford’s Blue Back Square, is closed temporarily. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Balos closed after dinner Saturday night and was not open Sunday, but owner George Chatzopoulos said the closure is only temporary as the restaurant undergoes a transition.

“The past 18 months has been an incredible adventure as we’ve introduced the greater West Hartford region to the finest Greek cuisine, including traditional specialties and fresh seafood dishes not available anywhere else in Connecticut,” Chatzopoulos told We-Ha.com Monday. “But as exciting as the adventure has been, we’ve realized the time has come to revamp our offerings.”

The new concept is still being finalized – as is a new name – but Chatzopoulos said the revamped restaurant will keep some Greek specialties but will not focus on just a single cuisine. A new chef will be hired to execute the new concept.

Balos, which had its grand opening in October 2018, was known for fine dining. He said that along with the new concept, they are looking to make some changes to menu pricing as well.

Chatzopoulos expressed his personal thanks to Balos patrons. “[I] hope you look forward to the next chapter in our quest to provide the finest cuisine in the West Hartford area. We promise to keep some of our most popular dishes you’ve come to love and look forward to offering a new and exciting menu.”

Because the changes will involve decor as well as menu, Chatzopoulos said the temporary closure is necessary to ensure the best possible customer service. “We want to thank you in advance for your patience – we promise it will be worth the wait.”

Balos currently employs 20-25 people, Chatzopoulos said, and plans are to rehire them once the restaurant reopens, he said.

Updates on the progress will be posted on the Balos website, he said.

Chatzopoulos could not yet provide an exact timeline for the reopening, but said the time the restaurant is closed will be kept to a minimum.

Chatzopoulos also owns West Hartford’s “The Simple Greek” fast casual franchise in Corbin’s Corner, as well as Chip’s Family Restaurant which has six Connecticut locations. His longtime friend Odysseus Rethis, who was an original partner in Chip’s before launching a career in the fashion industry and as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, will remain as a partner in the new concept, Chatzopoulos said.

He said he appreciates the great working relationship he has had with Blue Back Square management. “They have really been working with me,” Chatzopoulos said.

“Thank you again from all of us here at Balos Greek Cuisine & Bar, and we look forward to sharing our next adventure with you,” said Chatzopoulos.

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