In collaboration with Athens’ renowned Nice & Easy hospitality group, the event unites chefs from Greece and Chicago’s Avli, Andros Taverna, and other top spots for a night of Greek cuisine, wine, and cultural celebration.
CHICAGO, IL (April 8, 2025)—Avli Restaurant Group teams up with the acclaimed Athens-based Nice & Easy Group to present the debut Chicago Hellenic Chef’s Experience on Thursday, May 1, at Avli on The Park (180 N. Field Blvd) in Chicago.
This special evening will showcase the lively essence of Greek food, wine, and heritage. It will feature a fusion of Greek culinary masters alongside a handpicked roster of Chicago’s finest Greek chefs from Avli, Andros Taverna, and beyond.
Funds raised through ticket sales will benefit the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago’s Greektown, aiding its efforts to preserve and promote Greek history, art, culture, and the Greek-American narrative.
Chicago Chef & Restaurateur Lineup:
- Doug Psaltis: Chef/Owner, Andros Taverna
- Avgeria Stapaki: Chef/Owner, Tama
- Georgios Zervakis: Head Chef, Yasemi
- Nikolaos Fotoglidis: Executive Sous Chef, Loews Hotel
- Eleftheria Sioulas: Senior Sous Chef, Avli on The Park
- Pano Chalikiopoulos: Partner and Culinary Director, Avli
- Babis Tsotras: Executive Chef, Avli Milwaukee
- Vanille Patisserie: Offering a tasting table of Greek-inspired desserts
Culinary Talent from Greece:
- Chef Sotiris Evangelou: Macedonia Palace, a 5-star resort in Thessaloniki
- Chef Stamatis Misomikes: NYN ESTI, a celebrated Nice & Easy Group restaurant
- Chef Dimitris Pamporis: Ekies, a luxury resort on Vourvourou Bay, Sithonia, Chalkidiki
The Main Event (6 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) / $75 includes unlimited small bites from the featured chefs, tasting stations with a selection of Greek wines from various regions, a Greek beer bar, lively Greek entertainment, and entry to the After Party from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Purchase tickets HERE.
The After Party (8:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.) / $30 offers a selection of Greek wines and beers paired with continued live Greek entertainment. It celebrates Greece’s rich legacy while supporting the National Hellenic Museum’s mission. Purchase tickets HERE.
“We’re thrilled to launch this event to honor Greece’s vibrant traditions and unite culinary talents from across the globe,” says Louie Alexakis, CEO and Founder of Avli. “It’s an exciting opportunity to share our heritage and back the National Hellenic Museum, which is vital in safeguarding Greek history and culture. This gathering promises Chicago food lovers, Greek-Americans, and local eateries a memorable night of community and celebration.”
Complimentary valet parking is available at Avli on The Park, though Uber or ride-share options are strongly encouraged.