The History of Serop's Express

1972: The Family Business

The year was 1972 when Serop Kaltakdjian, of Armenian descent, converted his shoe repair shop into a family-run sandwich shop known as Serop's. It was truly a family operated business with his wife, Marie, helping cook and creating family recipes, while building an opportunity for their children to work and earn a few dollars for weekend spending money. This sandwich shop is where Serop and Marie's eldest son, Vasken, learned about the business, discovered his passion for food and began to understand that hard, honest work yields great rewards - a value that is still ingrained in the family today.

1978: A Better Future

In 1978, Serop wanted a better future for his family, especially his children, so they sold the sandwich shop to a local and immigrated to America. The original Serop's sandwich shop is still open in the very same location today.

PHOTO:  Serop Kaltakdjian, founder of Serop’s, seated with staff member in front of the first sandwich shop in Damascus.

1978: A Better Future

In 1978, Serop wanted a better future for his family, especially his children, so they sold the sandwich shop to a local and immigrated to America. The original Serop's sandwich shop is still open in the very same location today.

1979: A New Beginning

Serop's Restaurant, with an adjoining Mediterranean market, opened in 1979 on Government Street in what is now Baton Rouge's Mid-City. The family converted an old fuel station into a fine dining restaurant. When Serop and Marie brought their family to Baton Rouge they also brought their culture, their great food traditions and Marie's family recipes. They were the first to introduce Greek and Lebanese food to this city, offering locals something new and unique. Serop's, serving great food and entertaining guests with belly dancers, was host to weddings, parties, and many other social gatherings inside this historic landmark. Though it was truly something this great City was not accustomed to experiencing, the people of Baton Rouge embraced the new dining fare and welcomed the family.

PHOTO:  Serop Kaltakdjian and his son, Vasken, working the counter together

2018+: The Present

Serop's Express is still going strong. We take pride in our delicious Greakk and Lebanese cuisine that still upholds traditional family recipes. Serop's strives to provide the highest quality food and service to our guests, while even adapting to the modern age by adding a drive-thru for our on-the-go customers who want a quick and healthy meal.

PHOTO:  ​Vasken Kaltakdjian and his son, Serop, in front of the current Mid-City location of Serop’s Expres

From Our Family to Yours

To This Day, Serop's Is Family Owned and Operated.

From Our Family to Yours: Welcome to Serop's Express!

The Pomegranate Shape

The pomegranate is a symbol of prosperity in the Armenian culture.