07/12/2025
An appreciation post for the King of Souvlaki — my father.
This is the kind of man he is.
If I can be half the man he is, I’ll consider myself truly blessed.
Growing up around his little pushcart in Astoria, I watched him feed countless people — those struggling, those with no money, those who were homeless. And to this day, he reminds everyone who works with him: never deny anyone food when they ask.
No matter how cold the winters or hot the summers, he worked tirelessly for his family while always giving back. Nonprofits, community groups, and charities knew they could count on him to help whenever they asked.
I remember one Saturday when I was much younger and I was helping him. A man who was homeless stood quietly off to the side while my dad served a long line. I pointed him out and asked who he was. My dad smiled and said, “Oh him? That’s my best customer.” He wrapped up some souvlaki and bread, handed it to him, and the man thanked him with a hug.
Moments like that? I’ve seen too many to count.
He would never want me to post this. He always told me, “Give, but don’t tell anyone. God knows — and that’s enough.”
At a recent fundraiser, after feeding everyone, he was asked to say a few words. This is what he said (translated from Greek):
“What I give is not mine — it comes from God. God gave to me so I can give to others. I thank Him for the strength and ability to give back. It’s all from God.”
That’s my father. That’s who he is. And I’m proud to be his son.
