The transition from Greek culture to American can be difficult for the estimated 1.5 million Americans of Greek descent. Whether it be the missing of their family and community or of rich Greek food that you can’t find in the States, any way to fill the void is looked for. Myrsini Ragomo, a first-generation Greek, spoke on the differences between American and Greek culture saying, “Greek people are warmer and more welcoming than the average American family.”

Any person of immigrant descent wants to find a place that makes it feel like they are back in their homeland eating the same food and being surrounded by the same community. For the Ragomo’s, the Local Greek in Princeton, New Jersey was the place for them. With a motto of “small bites, big smiles”, the restaurant and staff shocked our group with a taste of their flavorful food and a taste of the warm Greek atmosphere. The owner of the restaurant, Tony Kanterakis, is first-generation as well and said, “the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people and the attitude that strangers are friends you haven’t met yet” are the most important things about the Greek culture. This was surely shown to us by big smiles from all employees as soon as we walked into the establishment.

The word “KEΦI” was posted on the wall with the meaning “the spirit of joy and enthusiasm in which good times and passion for life are expressed by an abundance of excitement, happiness, and fun” along with words like “MEPAKI” meaning the soul. Emma Schlotter, a friend and customer at the restaurant blatantly stated the aesthetic made her feel happy. With a pale blue exterior and warmly lit interior, the additional smells from the kitchen as soon as you walk in gives you a welcoming hug. 

In Greece, everyone is very family centered creating bonds that cannot be explained. “Any family can be close, but with a Greek family it’s a different type of closeness”, explained Gianna Ragomo about what it’s like to grow up with Greek heritage. Holidays are always spent together celebrating with each other. For Greek Easter, Gianna enjoys being with her family to incorporate their Greek culture. Parties can get pretty loud with the family, but it is always a good time. Sundays were a time for everyone to get together to attend church as one and they would even go to weddings with one another. Greeks stick together.

 The Ragomos try when they can, to go back to Greece and walk the beautiful streets again. Myrsini Ragomo has realized her love for her heritage and homeland saying, “once you go there, you can’t believe it’s where you’re from and where your ancestors are from.” From my experiences trying the Greek food, hearing about the culture and community, and being in the atmosphere of an authentic Greek food establishment, going to Greece sounds like a true dream.