By Okon Ekpenyong

The Mayor of Columbus, Andrew Ginther, joined other leaders of the community in honoring the late New American community member who was originally from Greece, Athanasios “Tommy” Pappas, a beloved community member and legend who served Franklinton with love and through his beloved Tommy’s Diner on West Broad Street. 

Tommy and his restaurant, “Tommy’s Diner,” are iconic in Columbus. The city named “Tom Pappas Way” in his honor and placed the sign beneath the intersection of Jones Avenue and West Broad Street to honor his significant influence on the community. Even after his passing, his legacy continues through his two sons, Michael and Louie, who now manage the restaurant, ensuring that Tommy’s spirit and dedication to the community endure, providing a sense of continuity to his influence.

“Tommy embodies the American dream, particularly as a first-generation immigrant. His unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community has always stood out. He was a passionate advocate for first responders and recognized the vital role they play in ensuring public safety,” remarked Mayor Ginther. He further emphasized that Tommy was deeply engaged at the neighborhood level, particularly in Franklinton, while also being a cherished figure throughout Central Ohio and beyond.

Pappas and his wife opened Diner in 1989, driven by the desire to share a piece of his culture, cuisine, and traditions with the community he adopted. 

The recent passing of Pappas on December 2, 2024, left a void in the community, a void that was once filled by his larger-than-life personality. He had become a household name, not only among local community leaders and officials but also among notable sports teams like Ohio State and the Columbus Blue Jackets, as well as national celebrities who frequented his restaurant. The boy from Greece who sought a better life in the United States had touched the hearts of thousands with his warmth and kind words.

At the unveiling in his honor, a diverse group of community leaders representing the breadth of Tommy’s influence gathered to pay their respects. This included Council President Shannon Hardin, Councilmember Emmanuel Remy, and Kym Douglas, Director of the Department of Neighborhoods. Members of the Pappas family were also in attendance, reflecting the profound impact Tommy had on those around him.

In Columbus, neighborhoods such as Hilltop, Linden, Westgate, Northshore, and surrounding cities like Whitehall and Reynoldsburg are home to many restaurants run by immigrant families who share a journey similar to Pappas’s. The new Tom Pappas Way will inspire them, showing that such dreams are achievable. It’s not merely about opening a restaurant; it represents a commitment to strengthening the community, combating poverty and violence, and promoting sustainability.

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