Third-generation owner of Raleigh's oldest resturant dies at 68

The co-owner of Raleigh's oldest restaurant has passed away.

2026-06-29

Paul Dombalis, third-generation owner of The Mecca, died on June 18. He was 68 years old. 

Dombalis was a Raleigh native, and grew up in the Mordecai community. His dedication to the community started at 11 years old when he began working the dumbwaiter at Mecca. His grandparents opened the restaurant in 1930.

He took over leadership responsibilities in 1990. After mananging the resturant for 47 years, Dombalis retired and created a new home in Kure Beach. 

"Paul respected the prominent figures who frequented The Mecca, but he treated the homeless person seeking a meal with the same degree of respect. Behind the counter, Paul greeted regulars and first-time customers alike as his family," the family wrote in Dombalis' obituary. 

The funeral service was held on June 24 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, where Dombalis served as an altar boy as a child. He was laid to rest in the Historic Oakwood Cemetary.