MORICHES, NY — Hearts are heavy at the Greek Bites Grill & Cafe in Moriches: Friends, customers, and staff as close as family were left reeling by the news that owner Spiro Laopodis died on Sunday, October 6 at 53 years old.
Spiro, his wife Dimitra, and his children Marianna and George are a family well-known and loved in the community — with scores of friends coming forward on social media to share their sorrow at the profound loss.
The Laopodis family wrote a message to Greek Bites’ customers: “We regret to inform you that Greek Bites Grill & Cafe will be closed on Saturday, October 12 due to an unfortunate event. The owner, Spiro Laopodis recently passed away. Our staff, aka our family, will be attending the funeral services. We apologize and appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.”
Business will resume as normal on Sunday, October 13.
Click Here: melbourne storm team jersey
Marianna Laopodis wrote a heartfelt note to her father on social media: “I’m sorry we have to close, Dad. Mom, George and I need just one day. Our Greek Bites family is standing incredibly tall and strong, like you. They are rallying behind our family and ready. You always had some sort of way of finding great people to bring into our door. Anyone who currently works or has worked for you refers to you as the greatest boss they ever had — and a father figure.”
She added: “I promise to you and to my brother and to my mother and to our incredible customers that keep a roof over our heads, that it will be business as usual — with the exception of some tears while I’m taking orders — in the future. In your words, ‘The world stops for no one and nothing, at any time.’ We will not be okay — but we will make you proud.”
A viewing will be held at the Robertaccio Funeral Home, located at 495 Main Street in Center Moriches, on Saturday, October 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church, located at 77 Montauk Highway in Blue Point. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Center Moriches.
“To all who knew my father, you are welcome with open arms to come and pay your respects,” Marianna said.
The Laopodis family is well-loved in the Mastic and Moriches communities, as well as on the North Fork and in Southampton, where they also once had restaurant locations.
Spiro was known for his warm smile and the air of hospitality with which he welcomed guests to Greek Bites — the entire family is known for nourishing not just with homemade food but with bestowing a sense of belonging on all those who come in search of the perfect gyro or slice of mouthwatering pastitsio.
The Laopodis family said, despite their loss, they will carry their husband and father’s dream of a new, larger Greek Bites forward into the future — shepherding his legacy and vision into reality with love.
“He will be watching over us, making sure we are safe and strong,” his wife Dimitra said.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.