The Unforgettable Legacy Of Mad Greek Moscow Idaho: 5 Things To Know About The Closed Local Legend

The Mad Greek restaurant in Moscow, Idaho, is no longer serving its famous gyros or loaded Greek fries, but its legacy as a beloved local institution and its indelible connection to a national tragedy remain a powerful part of the town’s history. As of late 2025, the restaurant at 212 S Main St is permanently closed, having shut its doors following the immense national attention and grief surrounding the November 2022 University of Idaho murders. This article delves into the full story of the Mad Greek, moving beyond the headlines to remember the vibrant community hub it once was and the events that led to its permanent closure.

Founded by owner and head chef Kosta Alexandropolis, the Mad Greek was for years a staple of the downtown Moscow, Idaho, dining scene, known for bringing authentic Greek flavors to the Palouse region. Today, it is a poignant symbol of the collective heartbreak experienced by the University of Idaho and the wider Latah County community, serving as a reminder of the lives lost and the ongoing search for justice.

The Legacy of Mad Greek: A Local Institution's Biography

The story of the Mad Greek is one of a small-town eatery with a national footprint, tied to both the warmth of community and the cold reality of a high-profile crime.

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• Name: Mad Greek Restaurant
• Location: 212 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843
• Original Founder/Head Chef: Kosta Alexandropolis (also spelled Alexandropoulos)
• Other Owner: Jackie Fischer
• Original Founding Location: Sitka, Alaska (before moving to Moscow, Idaho)
• Cuisine Style: Authentic Greek and Mediterranean Food
• Key Staff Connection: Two victims of the 2022 University of Idaho murders, Xana Kernodle and Madison Mogen, worked there as servers.
• Status: Permanently Closed (Closure occurred in the aftermath of the 2022 tragedy)
• Local Impact: Before its closure, it was a popular downtown eatery, particularly among University of Idaho students and Moscow residents.

1. The Authentic Greek Menu and Signature Dishes That Defined the Mad Greek

Before the headlines shifted the focus, the Mad Greek was celebrated for its robust and flavorful Greek cuisine, which stood out in the small college town of Moscow. The restaurant, under the guidance of Kosta Alexandropolis, who was originally from Greece, offered a broad menu that satisfied both traditionalists and those seeking new flavors.

A Taste of the Mediterranean in Idaho

For years, the Mad Greek was the go-to spot for an authentic taste of the Mediterranean. The menu was extensive, focusing on fresh ingredients and classic recipes. Key dishes that became local legends and LSI keywords for the restaurant included:

• Gyros and Pita Wraps: The cornerstone of the menu, featuring savory lamb/beef or chicken options with their signature Tzatziki sauce.
• Pilafi (Rice Bowl): A highly-rated dish, often cited as one of the most popular items ordered.
• KY's Loaded Greek Fries: A fan-favorite appetizer, smothered in toppings and often requested for delivery.
• Doner Kebabs and Souvlakia: Offering a variety of traditional grilled meats and skewers.
• Baklava: The classic Greek pastry, often highlighted in reviews as a perfect dessert.

The restaurant also made efforts to cater to the diverse University of Idaho community, specifically noting on its menu to ask about available vegan and vegetarian options, which further broadened its appeal.

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2. The Tragic Connection to the University of Idaho Murders

The Mad Greek's status as a local favorite was tragically cemented in November 2022, when it became a focal point in the investigation of the murders of four University of Idaho students. This event dramatically shifted the narrative surrounding the restaurant, turning it from a simple eatery into a site of remembrance and a key entity in the murder case.

The Victims Who Worked There

Two of the victims, 21-year-old Madison Mogen and 20-year-old Xana Kernodle, were servers at the downtown location. Their presence at the restaurant, along with that of their friends and co-workers, made the Mad Greek a crucial part of the social and professional lives of the victims. For the Moscow community, the restaurant became an immediate gathering place for grief and memorial, with flowers, candles, and notes being left outside its doors.

The Suspect Connection and Owner's Response

The restaurant was also thrust into the spotlight regarding the murder suspect, Bryan Kohberger. Early media reports suggested that Kohberger, who was reportedly vegan, had visited the Mad Greek multiple times to order vegan pizza. Furthermore, investigators reportedly found evidence that Kohberger's phone had passively logged onto the restaurant’s Wi-Fi network.

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However, the owners, including Jackie Fischer, publicly disputed the claims of Kohberger being a regular customer. Fischer issued a strong statement on social media, refuting the media reports that connected the suspect directly to their establishment, a move that underscored the intense pressure and scrutiny the small business faced during the investigation.

3. The Permanent Closure and Hole in Downtown Moscow

The immense emotional and logistical toll of the tragedy ultimately proved too much for the business to sustain. After initially closing temporarily, the Mad Greek eventually announced its permanent closure. The loss was felt deeply across the Palouse region, extending beyond the University of Idaho campus to the residents of Moscow and nearby Pullman, Washington.

Leaving a Void in the Community

The closure of the Mad Greek left a significant void in the downtown Moscow dining landscape. It was more than just a place to eat; it was a gathering spot, a first job for many students, and a cultural touchstone bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to Latah County. The permanent closing symbolized a profound change in the town, marking the end of an era for the popular eatery.

While the physical restaurant at 212 S Main St is gone, the memory of its food—from the rich Doner Kebabs to the sweet Baklava—and its role in the community's history will not be forgotten. The Mad Greek's story is a complex one, intertwined with the life and spirit of Moscow, Idaho, and forever linked to the events of November 2022.