10/22/2026
A piece of The City of Marion, NC is proudly displayed at the Asheville VA Medical Center! 🇺🇸
Look familiar? Yes, this is a smaller copy of the massive, iconic mural that hangs on the side of Bantam Chef.
Tony Panou, the former owner of Bantam Chef, created this beautiful artwork as a profound memorial dedicated to our service members—both civil and military. Several years ago, Tony asked Dael to personally deliver it to the VA and dedicate it to them in remembrance of the brave. Since that day, it has hung in various prominent locations throughout the medical center, always standing proudly alongside other donated veteran artwork.
Because of Tony's incredible love, generosity, and impact as one of Dael’s mentors, it was an absolute honor to feature Bantam Chef as the very first episode to start The V-Twin Foodies adventure! 🏍️🍔
If you know Tony, you know his amazing story. As a first-generation American born to Greek immigrant parents, he has truly lived the American Dream. He succeeded through pure hard work, and he has spent his life teaching others how to do the exact same—natives and immigrants alike. His unstoppable work ethic and massive heart have made him a beloved legend to everyone who has ever met him.
From all of us veterans who know Tony, and the countless employees who worked alongside him to serve up so many great meals: Thank You, Tony! Thank You for your service to our town, community, and nation as a whole for supporting our Service Members and Veterans. Thank You to Bantam Chef for your constant smiles, your kind words, and for giving our community full stomachs and lasting memories. Thank You Tony and Bantam Chef 🙏❤️🍔🥙
