The family behind Copperhead Grille, a well-known sports bar with two Lehigh Valley locations, is preparing to open a new fast-casual restaurant in Northampton County. Cousins Michael L. Dontas and Michael P. Dontas, who own Copperhead Grille locations in Allentown and Upper Saucon Township, are excited to introduce Utopita, a Mediterranean eatery, set to open in February at 3650 Nazareth Pike in Bethlehem Township.
A New Venture in Mediterranean Cuisine
Utopita, a fresh take on Mediterranean dining, will offer a variety of Greek specialties in a fast-casual setting. The restaurant will be located in the Bethlehem Village Shoppes, occupying a renovated space with seating for around 30 guests.
The cousins, who founded Copperhead Grille in 2002, are eager to bring a new concept to the area. Michael L. “Junior” and Michael P. “Senior,” named after the same grandfather, have operated Copperhead Grille locations since 2002. Their new venture marks their first fast-casual restaurant, with a focus on fresh, Greek-inspired dishes.
Menu Highlights: Gyros, Bowls, and More
At Utopita, customers will have the option to enjoy gyros made with pork, beef, lamb, chicken, or falafel. Additionally, diners can create their own bowls, choosing from a variety of proteins and base options like lemon potatoes, yellow rice, French fries, or two types of greens. Toppings and dressings, including tzatziki and hummus, will complete the dishes.
The name “Utopita” combines the Greek word “utopia” with “pita,” reflecting the cousins’ Greek heritage. Michael L. explained the inspiration behind the name: “We were playing with different words like pita and utopia, and one day the name just came to me—utopia with a ‘t’ in it.”
Greek Specialties and Sweet Treats
Utopita will also offer platters for diners who prefer their dishes separated, as well as other Greek favorites like avgolemono soup (Greek lemon chicken soup) and loukoumades, small Greek doughnuts soaked in honey syrup. For dessert, Greek frozen yogurt will be available, with toppings such as baklava crumbles, sour cherry preserves, or Nutella.
Copperhead Grille’s Legacy Continues
While Utopita marks a new chapter for the Dontas cousins, Copperhead Grille remains a beloved institution in the area, known for its award-winning wings, mozzarella sticks, premium burgers, and baby back ribs. The sports bar also offers a wide range of steak, chicken, seafood, and pasta dishes, paired with hand-crafted cocktails and a selection of over 50 craft, import, and domestic beers.
Copperhead’s slogan, “Where champions are fed,” reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality food and the sports experience, complete with state-of-the-art sound systems and TVs for an immersive atmosphere.
Utopita’s Location and Community Impact
Utopita will be situated in the Bethlehem Village Shoppes, a bustling shopping center home to other popular eateries like Mitzi’s Table and Sorella’s Pizza & Pasta. The restaurant will be located near Atlantis Aquatics and Callahan Driving School and Testing Center, making it a convenient spot for locals.
As the Dontas family continues to expand their culinary presence, Utopita promises to bring a fresh and exciting Mediterranean dining option to the area, offering a new way for Lehigh Valley residents to enjoy Greek cuisine.
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