Ever wonder what $15 could get you in 1977? At Niko Niko’s, it bought you a dream. Right here, on Montrose Boulevard, Chrisanthios Fetokakis opened a walk-up window and started serving his delicious Greek cuisine. Niko Niko’s wasn’t an instant success. The first day, May 1, 1977, only brought in $15. But Fetokakis persevered, and with a little help from a friend, Pete Pappas of the Pappas Restaurants franchise, Niko Niko’s began its journey to becoming a Houston institution. The legacy continued, eventually passing to his son, Dimitri, who considered Pappas a lifelong mentor.
Niko Niko’s is more than just gyros and hummus. It’s a testament to hard work, family, and community. Dimitri Fetokakis showed his commitment to the neighborhood in 2005 by landscaping the median across from the restaurant. This was part of a beautification project with the Montrose Boulevard Conservancy. He also demonstrated his commitment to the environment. Before the city’s RecycleBank program, Niko Niko’s used polystyrene. But with the program’s launch in 2009, Dimitri switched to more eco-friendly options. He chose enviroware plates and degradable plastic bags. This switch cost more, but it aligned with his values. And speaking of values, Niko Niko’s even became a part of the RecycleBank rewards program. Locals could earn points for recycling and redeem them for delicious treats at Niko Niko’s.
Niko Niko’s has grown over the years. In 2010, after more than 30 years at the Montrose location, they expanded. They opened a kiosk in Market Square Park in Downtown Houston. This new spot focused on grab-and-go favorites. Think gyro sandwiches, shish kababs, and hummus. They even sponsored the World Gyro Eating Championships at the annual Festival of Greece. Twice, Niko Niko’s was featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” once in 2009 and again in 2020. And in 2014, they announced a new location inside an H-E-B in Pearland, Texas.
Niko Niko’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a Houston experience. It’s a place where you can enjoy authentic Greek flavors and feel the warmth of a family-run business. From humble beginnings to Houston icon, Niko Niko’s continues to serve up delicious food and a commitment to its community.