The Story
When Greek immigrant Chris Liakouras saw the theatrical flair of dishes like steak Diane and cherries jubilee, he had an idea: what if you set cheese on fire? In 1968, at The Parthenon, he poured brandy over a sizzling pan of kasseri cheese, lit a match, and shouted 'OPA!' The flaming saganaki was born, and it spread to Greek restaurants worldwide.
For 48 years, The Parthenon was the oldest restaurant in Greektown, the place where Chicagoans discovered Greek cuisine. The family-owned establishment served classic dishes to generations of diners who made the pilgrimage to Halsted Street for lamb chops, moussaka, and that theatrical cheese.
In September 2016, a sign appeared on the door: 'After over 48 years in business we are sad to inform you we are permanently closed.' The closure followed two failed health inspections earlier that year. Greektown lost its anchor, and Chicago lost the birthplace of one of its most beloved culinary traditions.
🍽 Signature Dishes
THE original - kasseri cheese flambeed tableside with brandy and the 'OPA!' cheer
Charcoal-grilled Greek-style chops served for nearly five decades
💡 Did You Know?
- Chris Liakouras invented flaming saganaki here in 1968 - it didn't exist in Greece
- The restaurant temporarily closed in April 2016 after failing two health inspections
- As of August 2025, a new restaurant called Ithaki Estiatorio opened in the former Parthenon space
👤 Notable People
🏙 What's There Now
Ithaki Estiatorio opened in August 2025
Original Address: 314 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60661