Ahmed's Mediterranean Grill

Ahmed's Mediterranean Grill was a popular Lebanese restaurant that the gang frequented pre-COVID-19. Located on US 41, Ahmed's was opened in 2003 by Ahmed Ghassaniyah upon his arrival from the Middle East. The restaurant provided a late-night meeting ground for the crew to scheme and share laughs with as well as receive important life lessons from Ahmed himself.

## Introduction

Ahmed was first met one fateful night in Tarpon Springs after James and Drew spent the day collecting horseshoe crabs for Crab Christmas. Ahmed had inquired to the boys as to why they were so deep in the mangroves, and upon answering Ahmed invited them back to his restaurant in order to build back their strength. The boys would later find his restaurant and would enjoy delicious Greek gyros made by Ahmed and his staff. As they relished the dish, engaged in animated conversations, and shared their newfound epicurean passion, the friends forged enduring memories, solidifying the Mediterranean grill as a cherished culinary landmark in their collective narrative. They would soon start bringing other friends over to the joint, including Jacob, Kevin, Matt, Gerik, Kelsi, Gabe and many more. The group's interaction with the Mediterranean grill not only introduced them to new culinary delights but also kindled a deeper appreciation for the diverse and colorful tapestry of Mediterranean food culture.

## Importance

Within the comforting walls of the grill, the friends not only savored sumptuous dishes but also hatched ambitious plans and brainstormed creative schemes. Ahmed, a sage figure with a wealth of life experiences, became an unwitting mentor, imparting invaluable life lessons amidst discussions over shared platters of hummus and grilled delicacies.

As they gathered in their regular spot, the friends absorbed more than just the delectable aromas; they imbibed pearls of wisdom and practical insights on entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the importance of cultural heritage. The owner's anecdotes and guidance wove seamlessly into their conversations, inspiring them to chase their passions and infuse their projects with authenticity and depth.

At almost any point in the week, if one was to go to Ahmed's at any point in the evening they could count on seeing at least a few other characters from the gang. With the typical McDonald's sometimes being overran with Ghosts or anti-fun police, Ahmed's became a high priority hangout spot. In their darkest moments, the cast could always rely on Ahmed as a moral compass, revealing to them answers not previously believed in. Although Ahmed was not always right, his Lebanese metaphors and experiences somehow made every member of the gang feel relieved.

> الخطر الأعظمم على معظمنا هو ليس أن يكون هدفنا عال جداً, و أن نخفق في تحقيقه, بل أن يكون سهلاً جداً و نحققه.
>
> Ahmed Ghassaniyah

## Controversial Episodes

The only time the gang faced issues with the Mediterranean Grill was when Ahmed's only daughter, Naima, fell in love with Drew. Though she hung around the group often enough, Ahmed was partial to having his daughter date, and expressed this willingly to the group. Although lighthearted and jovial, it was no secret that Ahmed was overprotective about Naima, often telling Drew "اترك ابنتي وشأنها أيها الكلب السلافي." Though this created some common drama at the usual table, nothing of major consequence arrived. Naima eventually moved on with her own life and the gang with theirs.

Sam G. was also permanently banned from the establishment for undisclosed reasons after his third visit to the restaurant.

## Closing

As the gang and all of their friends moved on with life they all stopped attending the Mediterranean Grill. Almost collectively everyone became preoccupied with other projects and had to stop visiting Ahmed's.

In the midst of the pandemic, Ahmed decided it would be best to get out of Tampa and to move back to La Vergne, Tennessee. Once remodeled the old restaurant building became a Bubble Down Car Wash. Although no one in the group was able to say goodbye, their experiences with Ahmed and their hangouts in the Mediterranean Grill would forever shape and alter their lives.