A Holiday Story: John Vouvoudakis Kindness to Community

By Catherine Tsounis

The joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you, – John Greenleaf Whittier1

Customers were greeted warmly during the holiday season with a treat, hugs, and a holiday treat. John Vouvoudakis, owner of Townhouse Diner for 30 years, practices holiday generosity. “I want to be anonymous,” he said. “All I do is work. My Diner is my world. I am from the norther villages of Chios. We emigrated and settled in Whitestone, NY.

The Town House Diner is located at 696 2nd Ave. on the east side of New York City. “I know my customers by their first names,” he said. “I serve American and Greek cuisine.” A young man with special needs walked into his diner. John gave him a treat. He hugged an African American man, who is a regular customer, giving him a treat. Caring for young and old is part of John’s hospitality. He gives happiness to any stranger who comes. The Townhouse Diner gives hospitality to the neighborhood during the holiday season.