College students need their Italian food fix too, ya know? Demos’ Restaurant is bringing their trademark spaghetti, hamburger steaks and bread to Middle Tennessee State University’s (MTSU) Student Union Building. The grand opening is Monday, August 25 at 9:30 a.m. After that, hungry diners can enjoy Demos’ Mondays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the fall semester.
Founded by Jim Demos and now run by MTSU alumni Peter and Kristin Demos, the restaurant has long been a staple of Rutherford County dining. The new eatery is designed with student life in mind, offering quick, satisfying meals that fit between classes and campus commitments.
Kristin Demos, Peter Demos and their son, Jamey Demos. (MTSU photo by Andy Heidt)
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature appearances by the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, university mascot Lightning, and the Demos family themselves — including their son Jamey, who will manage the new location. The first 100 students in line for lunch will receive swag bags, and one lucky Blue Raider will walk away with a “Demos’ Golden Ticket,” good for free meals all semester.
Kristin Demos, vice president of brand and marketing, expressed excitement about the launch, calling it a full-circle moment for the couple, both of whom earned sociology degrees from MTSU.
“We are thrilled to be part of the Blue Raider community,” Demos said. “This campus shaped us, and now we get to give back in the most delicious way.”
The restaurant’s journey to campus began with a successful pop-up appearance in fall 2022 as part of MT Dining’s “Local Restaurant Row” initiative. After rave reviews, the opportunity to establish a permanent presence was a natural next step.
For more info on the Demos’ Restaurant at MTSU, visit demosrestaurants.com. To learn more about all dining across campus, visit the MT Dining website at https://mtsu.campusdish.com/en/.
Subscribe to our weekly Newsletter for parenting tips, top things to do, our #WINSday contest and lots more!
