The imminent closure of a beloved and iconic Los Angeles restaurant and market: Papa Christos (aka C&K Imports)

For over 60 years, Papa Christos restaurant has been serving and supporting its community. It is more than an iconic Greek store and restaurant at the corner of Pico and Normandie Ave - it is a historic landmark that has been central to the Greek and Latino community in the Pico-Union area. Its closure would leave a gaping hole in the lives of the countless community members it has touched and in the pattern of our daily lives.

Positioned in a neighborhood once considered unsafe, Papa Christos has weathered decades, serving as one of the main pillars upholding the soul of the now vibrant Byzantine Latino Quarter (BLQ). It is heartbreaking to imagine the BLQ without the aroma of lamb chops and kebabs mingled with the soothing sound of church bells in the air, from neighboring Saint Sophia Cathedral. This gastronomic icon has become integral to our community's identity and to our urban landscape.

Losing Papa Christos would erase a critical part of our shared history and culture as Greeks, Latinos and Angelenos. We strongly urge the owner to NOT sell this land and to preserve the legacy of this community by allowing Papa Christos to continue operating. 

We ask you to sign this petition and lend your voice to help preserve the Papa Christos (C&K Imports) - a symbol of unity, tenacity, and cultural diversity. Your signature is more than just a mark on a document, it's a statement of support for our community's heritage and future. Let's keep the heart of the Byzantine Latino Quarter beating strong.