Tony’s first introduction to cooking came at the age of 12, when he would spend his summers at his grandpa’s restaurant on the island of Cyprus. He would help cook breakfast, lunch and dinner for the resort’s guests, under the mentorship of his grandfather and his mother, who would join them on the weekends to make homemade dishes.

In 1992 Tony moved to the United States, and in 94 he attended culinary school in Pasadena while searching for the perfect little restaurant to make his own. When he finally discovered Firehouse, a fast food restaurant with history, he knew this would be the one.  Tony acquired Fire House from John and Elizabeth in ’96, a sweet couple in their late 70’s. Following a short remodel, the restaurant reopened its doors as a Greek establishment, indulging Mediterranean food lovers for decades since.

After his father passed away, Tony’s mother would spend 6 months out of each year with Tony in the United States, until her passing. Even though she didn’t speak a word of English, she would always sit at the first table and welcome all the guests into the restaurant.

Every time a Greek-American family would visit, she would rush to get Tony out of the kitchen, where he would otherwise spend his entire day from sunrise to sunset.
Tony keeps his mother’s and grandfather’s memories alive by offering decades old recipes he learned from them, such as the Pastichio, the Avgolemono Soup and the Mousaka as part of the permanent Firehouse Taverna Menu.

From the owner :

I first learned how to cook from my Grandfather when I was ten years old on the little Mediterranean island of Cyprus.  I was taught family recipes with only the freshest ingredients from our farm make the most heart warming food. For twenty-four years now I have brought my authentic recipes to the long standing Firehouse for everyone to enjoy.
Antonis K., Owner

"This is officially my go to Greek restaurant. SOOOOOO good. I could eat it every day. The chicken, The rice, The Pita and the fries! OMG. OH and the salad, Id graze on that all day. The owners are super nice and friendly as well as the employees..."

"Amazing gyros . The best I've had in LA . And their fries are so good. The restaurant is small and cute and open glass for view of the outside park across the street. Really enjoyed it..."

"Thank you so much from the teachers at SOCES!! These guys fed us while on strike for FREE! Not only is the food great but what a wonderful thing to do for the teachers. True community support."

"Been here several times both dine in and take out. Never have I had better Greek salad and that comes from someone who used to visit Greece frequently as a kid. The calamari is to die for and the portions are great. Great ambiance and ok prices. The calamari salad is my favorite. Yum!"