Andreas Antoniou, founder of the Vrisaki restaurant, dies at 83

Andreas Antoniou, a prominent figure in the British-Cypriot community, passed away on October 12, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in Koma tou Gialou, Cyprus, on June 11, 1943, he migrated to the United Kingdom, where he built a distinguished career in the hospitality industry. After working as a chef at the Marina restaurant in London, he founded his iconic establishment, Vrisaki, on Myddleton Road in Wood Green in 1981.

For 42 years, Vrisaki served as a central hub for the Greek and Cypriot community, hosting various political figures, athletes, and celebrities. The establishment reached a pinnacle in 2003 when it received prestigious awards from the Evening Standard and London Tonight. In addition to his business success, Antoniou was an active member of the diaspora, serving as president of the Koma tou Gialou Association in London and advocating for the reunification of Cyprus. Although the original Vrisaki location ceased operations in 2025, his legacy continues through his son, Tony, who operates a new Vrisaki restaurant in Potters Bar, North London.