Papa Cristos, Los Angeles (Korea Town)

2771 W Pico Blvd · Los Angeles, CA 90006 · Neighborhood: South Los Angeles (K-Town)

One of my favorite family-owned gems is a Greek restaurant located in Korean town! It’s been providing home-style Greek food and serving the community for more than 60 years. In 1948, Papa Cristos started out as a market meant to introduce the foods and wines of Greece to Los Angeles. Twenty years later, (second generation owner) Chrys Chrys, better known as “Papa Cristo,” purchased the business from his father hoping to continue the family’s legacy and open up a full service Greek Restaurant.

With the help of his daughter Annie and other family members, Papa Cristos has become a beacon for the Greek community and locals who come regularly to lunch on heaping plates of lamb kebabs, falafel, dolmades and sizzling feta (my fave!). Their tzatziki sauce is pure goodness.

In addition to being a market and popular lunchtime restaurant, they also host their famous Big Fat Greek Dinners every Thursday night. Guests are invited to a prix fixe sampling of Greek wines, salad, freshly baked bread, two entrees, several side dishes, baklava and Greek coffee.

During your meal, you’ll hear live music from their Bouzouki player Petros, and watch some (PG) belly dancing to cap off the night. You’re not allowed to be shy here! Patrons are invited to come up and dance (she’s very persuasive). Here you can check out my wonky dance moves.

Papa Cristos is also great for catering events or hosting large parties. The night I was dining, there was a fraternity from USC taking up the entire back restaurant.

In case you were wondering, these boys were very well behaved.

With three generations involved (Grandma Annie, daughter (also) Annie, and cousin Mark), this place is truly a family-run establishment. On any given day, you will find them all cooking, serving and chatting with guests.

BYB Tip: “Like” them on Facebook and watch for regularly held contests, which might get you a free dinner for their Thursday night feasts or other fun goodies.

Thanks again Papa Cristos! I’ll see you again very soon!

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