Mike Chalhoub has been in the restaurant since he was very young, and for the last 20 years, he’s run Grape Leaves, a full-service Mediterranean restaurant in Troy. The eatery, located on Maple and Coolidge, features classics like deboned chicken, shish kabob, vegetarian and lamb grape leaves, vegetarian classics like mujadara, raw juices and more. You can order online or dine in, and Grape Leaves will also happily cater your next event. 

Christina Kalfaian, owner of Troy-based Papa’s Kitchen, relayed the legacy of her father, Jimmy Papadopoulo, who immigrated from Greece and worked in the restaurant industry for many years. His Pink Greek Dressing was a favorite among customers, and Papa’s Kitchen offers that original-recipe dressing, along with three more made-from-scratch options. Not a salad lover? No problem! Check out the website for recipes incorporating meat, seafood and more. Find Papa’s dressings at local stores like Busch’s, Hollywood Market, Joe’s Produce and many more.

Local Business News caught up with Troy Escape and its house restaurant, Eats and Crafts. Rebecca Bullock, corporate events and marketing manager, gave us the rundown on the entertainment center’s attractions, like bowling, laser tag and an arcade, as well as the company’s catered events and unique menu. Far from your typical bowling alley food, Eats and Crafts’ repertoire includes stuffed mushrooms, coconut shrimp and a full bar, including beer towers (the eatery’s answer to typical bowling alley beer pitchers). Whether you’re there for the attractions or the food, Troy Escape wants you to have a fun escape from ordinary life when you’re there.

Zach Achatz of Achatz Handmade Pie Company told Local Business News about the family business’s eight pie shops, including one in Troy, along with pies available fresh or frozen at retail stores like Busch’s. One thing we learned is that Achatz provides beautifully wrapped individual pies for weddings and other events. Look for fall seasonal flavors coming soon!