Ithaki and the family behind legendary restaurant Costa’s fires up Greektown’s comeback

Forte Hospitality, the team behind popular Chicago spots Sapori Trattoria and Butcher and the Bear, is launching a new endeavor later this summer. Ithaki Estiatorio aims to rekindle the vibrant spirit of Greektown, offering a fresh take on Greek cuisine. Located at 314 S. Halsted St., this modern seafood-focused Greek restaurant is positioned to be a pivotal player in Greektown's revival.

A return to Greektown's roots

Kosti Demos, Forte Hospitality's Founder, returns to familiar ground with Ithaki. His family once managed Costa’s, a beloved Greektown fixture that burned down in a fire back in 2010, according to NBC5 Chicago. Costa’s was said to have laid the groundwork for this new venture. 

"Greektown was alive with families and tourists on weekends," noted Demos in the company’s announcement. "Bringing Ithaki to Greektown is more than business; it’s personal." He emphasized in the press release the potential for Greektown to attract new diners due to its proximity to major developments and sites such as the West Loop and the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Greek food for a new generation

With cuisine overseen by Forte’s Culinary Partner Saul Ramos and an executive chef from Greece who will later be revealed, Ithaki reimagines Greek dining for today’s diners. "In the US, we’ve clung to nostalgic versions of Greek American cuisine," Ramos says in the announcement, yet he adds that the menu will reflect what is currently in vogue in Greece. Diners can expect Mediterranean flavors using contemporary techniques, such as whole fish roasted over a wood hearth, coupled with a robust selection of Greek wines and spirits.

Ithaki's Mykonos-inspired design reflects its cultural roots while appealing to modern aesthetics. With a 5,500-square-foot space and 180 seats, it will feature an open kitchen and a wood-fired hearth, the press release says. Complementary valet parking will nod to Greektown’s reputation for hospitality. Demos, Ramos, John Lawson, and Greg Poulos of Forte Hospitality lead the charge in what promises to be the beginning of a broader revitalization effort for the area.

More details on their ambitious plans for Greektown and additional projects are anticipated. Ithaki is expected to open later this summer. Further into the year, the restaurant plans to open a second concept, including a downstairs cocktail lounge. For more information, follow the restaurant on Instagram and Facebook at @ithakiestiatorio.