A hidden gem in Harker Heights, Acropolis blends bold Greek flavors, curated wines, and a family story rooted in passion, culture, and community.
HARKER HEIGHTS, Texas — There’s something special about pulling up to a place you’ve heard about through word of mouth…especially when it comes highly recommended. That’s exactly how this week’s Morning Munchies adventure began, in Harker Heights, parked just outside Acropolis.
From the outside, Acropolis blends into the everyday rhythm of a busy retail hub off Highway 190. But step inside, and the story shifts entirely. Warm lighting, carefully curated décor, and an unmistakable sense of intention transform the space into something far more immersive and closer to a Mediterranean escape than a Central Texas storefront.
At the center of Acropolis are husband-and-wife duo Lilian Halibi and Sam Halibi, whose journey into the restaurant world is rooted in both experience and passion. Sam’s story begins in 1988, when he arrived in the United States and started building a career in the food and entertainment industry in Dallas. Over the years, he became a familiar name in the local dining scene, including his role as part-owner of a beloved local staple, Papa’s Café.
In June 2021, just after the pandemic, the couple took over Acropolis, a restaurant that already had a strong foundation. But for Sam and Lilian, “good” wasn’t enough. They saw potential for something more.
What followed was a transformation…a ‘facelift’ as Sam calls it.
A vision refined: Food, Wine, and Atmosphere
Sam immediately set out to reshape the ambiance. Gone was the buffet-style layout, replaced with a more intimate dining experience. Lighting was softened, the bar area reimagined, and the walls adorned with custom wine labels and art that reflect their Middle Eastern heritage.
And then there’s the wine.
What started as a personal passion quickly became a defining feature of the restaurant. Sam curated an extensive collection from across the globe, from Napa Valley to Australia, and even introduced his own label, Karmah. The name itself carries dual meaning: rooted in the Arabic word Karmi (grapevine) while also nodding to the universal idea that good things come back around.
“If you want to have a good time, drink good wine,” Lilian Halibi said.
For Sam, wine isn’t just a beverage, it’s part of the experience. If the ambiance draws you in, the food and drinks keep you coming back.
Lilian emphasizes freshness above all else. Meats are cut daily. Vegetables are prepared fresh. Nothing is left to chance, especially when it comes to staple dishes like Greek salad, where quality is immediately noticeable.
But what truly sets Acropolis apart is its commitment to inclusivity. Since Lilian and her daughters live with celiac disease, the restaurant has embraced a largely gluten-free menu (nearly 99% of it). From the fryer to the grill, cross-contamination is carefully avoided. Even traditionally gluten-heavy dishes like manicotti have been reimagined in-house with gluten-free alternatives.
It’s not just a menu adjustment, it’s a philosophy: everyone deserves to enjoy great food without compromise.
Signature dishes that speak for themselves
Two standout dishes stole the spotlight during this visit:
A fan favorite, this dish combines jumbo shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, and a creamy white wine sauce. Finished with feta cheese, it delivers a balance of richness and freshness, with layers of texture in every bite.
Perfectly seasoned with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, the lamb chops are cooked to a tender, juicy finish without the overpowering “gamey” flavor that often turns people away. Even first-time lamb eaters find themselves pleasantly surprised.
Paired with curated wines like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for the pasta or a bold Cabernet for the lamb, the experience becomes more than a meal. It becomes a moment.
Consistency, Community, and Culture
Ask Sam what matters most, and the answer is simple.
“Our main thing here…is consistency with the food and service,” he said.
That philosophy extends beyond the kitchen. With live music on Friday and Saturday nights and a loyal base of regulars, Acropolis has become more than a restaurant, it’s a gathering place.
For Lilian, the community support means everything. In a town like Harker Heights, reputation travels fast. And for Acropolis, that reputation is built on trust, quality, and connection.
“It feels good to be part of it…the community has been a big supporter of what we do,” she said.
Lilian’s creativity doesn’t stop at Acropolis. Just steps away, her bakery Lily’s Cakes adds another layer to their culinary footprint. Known for custom cakes, intricate fondant work, and wedding designs, it’s a testament to her artistry and attention to detail. It is also important to note that in the future, Lily’s Cakes is looking to expand their reach, offering gluten-free alternatives to their menu items! Stay tuned for that update.
From its humble exterior to its vibrant interior, Acropolis is full of surprises. It’s a place where culture, cuisine, and community come together, where every detail, from the spices to the wine labels, tells a story.
And as Morning Munchies continues its journey highlighting local gems, this stop in Harker Heights proves one thing:
Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones hiding in plain sight!
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