Our Story
Since 1975
In the late 1950s, Steve Rallis and his wife Vanessa, immigrated from Greece to Hamilton seeking a better life for themselves. Steve had various jobs that included 10 years at the Ford Plant in Oakville, but his dream was always to open a business. So he bought a restaurant on James Street South, which was formally known as "Chris' Open Kitchen". He changed the name and opened for business in 1975. As the years went by, his son (a teenager at the time) began working for him, and he never left. Nick took over operations in 1995, continuing the family business with his wife, Lorena for the last 25 years. Now, even their three children work in the business.
In the background, you can see a picture of the founders, Steve and Vanessa Rallis.
Remembering Steve
With great sadness, we announce the passing of my beloved father Steve Rallis who left us after 5 years of suffering a terrible stroke. We are going to miss this great man. Steve and my mother, Vanessa opened up this restaurant in 1975, and my dad helped us right up to the age of 81 when his terrible illness stopped all that. If you’re lucky enough to have a parent still in your life, please give them a hug and tell them you love them. Without my dad, today I would have nothing.