Anthony Athanas

Anthony Athanas

Anthony Athanas
Born	(1921-12-25)December 25, 1921 Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Died	June 15, 2005(2005-06-15) (aged 83) New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Occupation	Restaurateur, Philanthropist

Anthony Athanas (December 25, 1921 – June 15, 2005) was an American restaurateur and philanthropist. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts and later moved to New Orleans, Louisiana where he made significant contributions to the local culinary scene.

Early Life and Career

Athanas grew up in a Greek-American family in Boston. His passion for food and hospitality developed at a young age, as he worked in his family's restaurant. After serving in the military during World War II, Athanas returned to Boston and opened his own restaurant, which quickly gained popularity for its delicious Greek cuisine.

In 1950, Athanas decided to expand his culinary ventures and moved to New Orleans. He opened his flagship restaurant, Athanas' Little Greek Corner, in the heart of the city's French Quarter. The restaurant became a beloved institution, known for its authentic Greek dishes and warm atmosphere.

Contributions to the Culinary Scene

Athanas played a pivotal role in introducing Greek cuisine to the people of New Orleans. His restaurant became a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who were eager to experience the flavors of Greece. Athanas' dedication to quality and authenticity earned him a loyal following and numerous accolades.

Throughout his career, Athanas actively promoted the culinary arts in New Orleans. He organized food festivals, cooking demonstrations, and charity events to showcase the city's diverse culinary heritage. Athanas also mentored aspiring chefs and supported culinary education programs, leaving a lasting impact on the local food industry.

Philanthropy

In addition to his contributions to the culinary scene, Athanas was a dedicated philanthropist. He believed in giving back to the community that had embraced him and his restaurant. Athanas supported various charitable organizations, particularly those focused on education, healthcare, and the arts.

Legacy

Anthony Athanas' legacy lives on in the vibrant culinary culture of New Orleans. His restaurant, Athanas' Little Greek Corner, continues to operate under the guidance of his family, preserving his commitment to quality and authenticity. Athanas' contributions to the culinary scene and his philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on the city and its residents.

See Also

• Greek cuisine
• New Orleans cuisine