My name is Michalis and my story has its roots in Athens, where I was born. At a young age I found myself in Ancient Olympia, a place that fascinated me with ancient Greek culture. The images, stories and atmosphere of this place have deeply shaped my life. Then, my path led me to Patras, where I began to work seriously in catering and entertainment. It was the beginning of a journey full of flavours, experiences and people.

​

After 2000, my journey brought me to America. There I worked as an executive chef and manager of foodservice operations in Manhattan, New York, Chicago, Miami, Washington DC and Baltimore. These years were full of challenges, but also opportunities. It was the moment I decided to create my own restaurant, something I had always dreamed of.

​

My father, Vangelis, has been my role model. His career in the restaurant business was remarkable: from bartender and waiter to sub-waiter, maitre d' and wine steward, he worked in important restaurants and hotels in the northern suburbs of Athens, but also in foreign cities such as Rome, Switzerland and Austria. He was a man who spoke five languages and learned first-hand what true hospitality means. From him I learned the secrets of the business, but also something more important: the principles of savoir vivre. My father taught me how to treat people with respect, courtesy and dignity.

The most exciting moment in my life came just before I opened my restaurant in America. My father used to say that he would wait to see me realize my dream of opening my own restaurant, and then he would be ready to leave. And that's exactly what happened. The day before I opened my first restaurant, he quietly and gracefully "left" as he had predicted.

​

Our family's culinary tradition also comes from my grandmother Nicolia and my mother Asimina. From them I learned the Greek recipes that connect me to my homeland, the smells and flavors I bring to every dish.

​

And now, as I write these few words about my life, my beloved Marlo, my little dog, is looking deep into my eyes.