Update: In loving memory it’s co-founder and CEO, Philip G. Sardelis, all Sardi’s locations will be closed on Wednesday, May 5th to celebrate the impact he made on the community and celebrate his life.

We are saddened to report that Philip Sardelis, MoCo native and co-founder of Sardi’s, has passed away after battling Covid since early March. Philip was a 1991 graduate of Wheaton High School and along with his cousin, also named Philip Sardelis, dreamt of a place to bring their families to enjoy fresh food and fun together.

Their thought of mixing bold ideas, rich Peruvian flavors, and fresh ingredients kept them awake at night until they decided to open Sardi’s. The first Sardi’s opened in Beltsville, MD on July 25th, 2008. Combining traditional Peruvian recipes with flavors of the South, Sardi’s was “designed for your family and your taste buds to enjoy.”

Now they serve Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania with over a dozen locations and more on the way. One of Phil’s proudest moments was when Sardi’s was selected as a premier caterer for Barack Obama’s inaugural ball. Through Sardi’s he also recently provided meals to the National Guard.

Phil was loved in the community as evident by an outpouring of social media support– He battled strong for over a month. He leaves behind his four children. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.