During the premiere of his new FOX series, Secret Service, Gordon Ramsay visited the Parthenon in Chevy Chase. The restaurant, a local fixture since 1989, is owned by Montgomery County resident Pete Gouskos. Our very own “Mr. MoCo,” Alex Tsironis, stopped by on Monday evening to check out the updates—photos below.
In his first mission, Ramsay employs technology to observe the Parthenon– a beloved family-run Greek restaurant. His assignment: to inspire the owner to modernize and eventually pass on his nearly four-decade legacy to his son. Notably, on the first Monday night following the airing of the show, the restaurant saw a lively crowd with a brief wait for outdoor seating– an uncommon sight for a Monday.
According to Tsironis, “the restaurant exudes a vibrant atmosphere, blending classic charm with a fresh, modern vibe reminiscent of Ramsay’s signature style.” Most customers we spoke with are delighted by the addition of new menu items alongside the timeless classics they remember. “There might be one or two items I’d love for them to bring back, but overall, we’re very happy with the changes,” a loyal customer of over two decades shared.
The Parthenon was established in 1989 by Greek immigrant Pete Gouskos, who grew up on the island of Zakynthos and worked his way up in the food and hospitality industry before settling in the United States. Opening his restaurant in Washington, DC, just across the Maryland line, Pete aimed to bring an authentic Greek dining experience to the Chevy Chase community.
In 2000, an adjacent space was transformed into the Chevy Chase Lounge, a casual spot where guests often come for a drink and end up staying for dinner. This concept, inspired by Pete’s upbringing in Greece, was designed to share his passion for food, hospitality, and his native culture.
The restaurant faced challenges during the 2020 pandemic, prompting a shift toward takeout and delivery, while Pete managed personal hardships as his wife was diagnosed with cancer and his son Michael began helping run the business. As the restaurant struggled to compete with newer trends, discussions began about evolving its vision– a turning point marked by the involvement of Gordon Ramsay.
View this post on Instagram
