In 1968 when the restaurant was opened it was owned by John Baganakis, Owner/ Manager, and by Steve and Chrysa Sacalis, husband and wife.
John chose the name “Mama Steve’s” to honor Mrs. Sacalis and perhaps for the attention that a catchy name might get. At that the time, the Sacalises, first generation Greeks, were 79 and 80 years old. John, a second generation Greek, was only 27 years old. Steve and Chrysa operated their own successful restaurant so they never worked at Mama Steve’s. Their daughter, Betsy Sacalis and John’s sister, Julie Wright were hostesses at Mama Steve’s for a short time when the restaurant first opened. In the beginning, they served breakfast, lunch and dinner, but in 1969, they began serving just breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mama Steve’s has always been successful, and for many years there were diners lined around the building from open until close. Maybe that’s why there are so many pancake houses in Williamsburg!
After the Sacalises passed away in the early 1980s, John purchased their interest in the restaurant. He became sole proprietor until he passed in 2001. Today Leslie Wright, John’s niece is the manager and owns Mama Steve’s with her brother Mark Wright. Over the years, Mama Steve’s has always been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. We hope you enjoyed being here and will return soon.
