The Greek, which has been a mainstay in the neighborhood for the past 12 years, transforming two charming spaces in the northern part of the neighborhood, announced it will close on May 31. This is a loss. Owner and chef Tom Galis has always done right by the neighborhood and his diners — and he’s always inventing. And when 450 Washington was saddled with a sidewalk shed for years, he made the most of it — creating a outdoor dining experience which was about as good as you could get given the circumstance.

Silver lining? I hope this means Tom is a step closer to a dream he once told me about — opening a meditation and food retreat in Greece.

The announcement is here on Instagram.

“This wasn’t an easy decision — it’s been a family effort, a labor of love, and a special place with memories with all of you,” Tom wrote. “But if there’s one thing we Greeks know how to do, it’s celebrate! So for these last two months, let’s make every visit count.”

“Over the past decade, we’ve grown, learned, and evolved—and we will be back, in a new shape or form, carrying our spirit forward,” he added. “So this isn’t goodbye — it’s just see you soon. And for our neighbors who rely on us for your daily meals, worry not, we can come over and meal prep for you. Just come by and let us know!”

That’s a good invitation! And when there are new plans afoot, I will of course add that news.

450 Washington is going to have to scramble to find a better tenant. Not sure how the coffee shop, The Coffee Project, or Big Gay Ice Cream is doing at that location. Someone report back…