A warm interview with Angeliki Hatzopoulos, the soul of Ellinikon in the heart of Central New Jersey
Just ten minutes from the St. George Greek Orthodox Community in Piscataway, New Jersey, in the welcoming town of Highland Park, stands Ellinikon, a destination where authentic Greek flavors meet heartfelt hospitality. This family-run gem has become a Central New Jersey favorite, where, as owner Mrs. Angeliki Hatzopoulos says, “you don’t feel like a customer, you feel like you’re coming home.”
The Meaning Behind “Ellinikon”
To understand Ellinikon, one must first understand its name.
In Greece, the country we call “Greece” is known by its people as Hellas or Ellada, officially the Hellenic Republic. The word Ellinikon (Ελληνικόν) means “Greek.” It reflects not only a national identity but a way of life, one rooted in hospitality, faith, family, and a love for good food shared in good company.
At Ellinikon, this meaning comes alive daily. The market and café bring the finest ingredients directly from Greece, offering customers the opportunity to cook and enjoy genuine Greek meals while benefiting from the health and richness of the Mediterranean diet. “Our goal is to bring you as close as possible to the complete Greek experience,” says Angeliki. “Everything we offer is authentic, nutritious, and made with the finest ingredients.”
An Idea Born Before the Pandemic
Ellinikon opened its doors in November 2019, just months before the pandemic changed the world.
“We didn’t know what to expect,” Angeliki recalls. “But the love of the people and our perseverance kept us going. It was new and difficult, but it taught us a lot.”
Through resilience and community support, the family turned uncertainty into opportunity, building a haven for those craving authentic Greek flavors and warm, familiar faces.
From Thessaloniki with Love
Originally from Thessaloniki and Eleftheroupoli, Angeliki and her family brought with them the genuine flavors, Macedonian warmth, and passion for Greek hospitality that define Ellinikon.
“My children, Christos and Petros, inspired me to create something different, a space that feels modern and European, yet deeply traditional,” Angeliki explains. “We combined a café, snack bar, pastry shop, deli, and home-style kitchen, all in one. And everything uses products straight from Greece.”
Everything is Greek, From the Oil to the Oregano
Ellinikon’s philosophy is simple: authenticity begins with the ingredients.
“Everything we make here, we do with love and with the same ingredients we sell in the store, Greek olive oil, feta cheese, rusks, herbs,” Angeliki says. “Even our desserts, baklava, spinach pie, carry the taste and soul of Greece.”
All meals are prepared in-house using fresh ingredients, while select pastries, cheeses, and traditional products are imported directly from independent producers, agricultural cooperatives, and passionate food artisans across Greece. By building strong relationships with trusted suppliers, Ellinikon ensures the quality, freshness, and consistency that define its reputation.
Family: The Backbone of Ellinikon
Ellinikon’s warmth extends beyond its menu, it lives in the family dynamic behind the counter.
“We may disagree often, but in the end, we agree,” Angeliki laughs. “The important thing is trust and respect. We all give our best.”
That closeness radiates through the space itself; every visitor is welcomed like kin. “Our customers feel part of our family,” she adds.
More Than a Store
Ellinikon is far more than a café or deli, it’s a cultural meeting place.
“Our customers thank us for existing,” Angeliki says with emotion. “There is no greater reward than that.”
Every corner of Ellinikon reflects Greek heritage. Menu items bear names like Socrates and The Seven Muses, each with its own story. A screen projects scenic images from Greece, creating an immersive atmosphere that awakens nostalgia and pride.
Recognition and Gratitude
In 2024, Ellinikon was honored with the Restaurant Guru Award, a distinction that celebrates their commitment to quality, authenticity, and heartfelt service.
“A heartfelt thank you to our valued customers for your continued support,” Angeliki says proudly. “And to our hardworking team, you made this possible!”
Collaborations and a Vision for the Future
Community involvement remains central to Ellinikon’s mission. The store collaborates with Rutgers University, the Highland Park Library, and local organizations while also providing catering for private events.
And the future? Angeliki smiles knowingly. “Maybe we’ll see Ellinikon become a franchise one day. The new generation, my children, have the energy and vision to grow it even further.”
Visit Ellinikon
76 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ 08904
For information or orders: +1 7323544944
Follow on Facebook & Instagram: @ellinikonhighlandpark
At a Glance: What You’ll Find at Ellinikon
NEW ARRIVALS
ESPRESSO BAR • SALADS • OMELETTES • SANDWICHES • CROISSANTS • PASTRIES
TRADITIONAL DESSERTS & COOKIES • FETA • CHEESES • OLIVE OIL & VINEGAR
OLIVES & PICKLES • LEGUMES • PASTA • DIPS • BAKERY
TOASTED RUSKS & PAKSIMADIA • BISCUITS & COOKIES • CHOCOLATES & WAFERS
SNACKS • HONEY • NUTS • FROZEN FOODS • GLUTEN-FREE PRODUCTS
CANNED FOOD • DRINKS & SODAS • COFFEE • HERBS • CHARCOAL • SOAPS • ICONS
GIFT WRAPS & CATERING AVAILABLE
Please wait...