The Livanos Family

The extraordinary legacy of the Livanos family in the restaurant industry began in 1957 when John Livanos immigrated to the United States from Greece and began his career as a dishwasher, working for his uncle in Manhattan. He later purchased his first dining establishment in 1960, and the elegant Livanos Restaurant opened in White Plains in 1985. Today, John Livanos and his children, Nick, Bill, and Corina, own and manage the critically acclaimed Oceana, Abboccato, and Molyvos in New York City, as well as City Limits in White Plains, NY and Stamford, CT, Burger Deluxe in Wayne, NJ, and Moderne Barn in Armonk, NY.

Nick grew up working in restaurants, and knew he loved food from the age of 13. While contemplating a business career, Nick graduated from Adelphi University in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in management. On a whim, he decided to visit the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), and it changed his life. Today, Nick oversees the business of all Livanos restaurants, sharing the duties with Bill and Corina.

Bill also attended Adelphi, graduating with a degree in business, and then worked with a few national chain restaurants. When Livanos Restaurant opened, Bill concentrated on developing the wine program, gaining the expertise that allowed him to oversee all Livanos’ beverage programs. Currently, Bill is concentrating his efforts on the Livanos’ suburban restaurants.

Corina, the youngest member of the Livanos family, graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a bachelor’s degree in management. Working her way through the restaurant chain, Corina soon became part of the Livanos management team.
Today, the Livanos’ , with John at the helm, continue their success, by working together – sharing a passion for food and family.

Livanos Family, Silver Spoon Award Recipients, Food Arts, March 2012