Dimitris Zafeiropoulos
Hudson Yards, Manhattan
Milos brings its love for hospitality and fresh ingredients to each of its restaurants around the world. Every one of the twelve locations (and counting) yields a unique vibe while exuding the values Milos has carefully created over the years. Part of the Greek moral code is “philoxenia,” which means “the love for strangers.” This love is a large portion of what makes Milos a dynasty that will be around for ages. Read our latest with the Global Beverage Director to get a taste of Milos’ genuine love for all things Greek.
Full name, age, where are you from?
Dimitris Zafeiropoulos, 39, Athens, Greece
What is your title and where do you work?
I am the Global Beverage Director for Estiatorio Milos
What inspired you to work in the food industry?
I feel as a Greek, hospitality always ran in my veins. It took me moving to NYC which is the best food hub in the world to find myself in the restaurants. Also, I realized the vast difference in wine culture between Greece and here as soon as I opened the first wine list in an UWS restaurant.
What is your biggest customer pet peeve?
In general, I am very appreciative of every single guest that comes into our restaurants. If I had to pick one, I would say when people are taking pictures away from the table when food is being served. I feel they don't appreciate the experience we are trying to provide.
What is your most blissful food moment?
The most blissful food/beverage moment is when I am surrounded by my 10+ friends and family members anywhere in the world (between home and restaurants) and try different food while sharing some of the wines from my cellar! I am grateful that it happens a few times a year!
What dish do you want to perfect in the kitchen?
I would say even though I am a good "cocktail critic" I usually rely on the super talented head bartenders of Estiatorio Milos all over the world when it comes to creativity! I think every single wine that I add to the list feels like my baby but if I have to pick something that I feel very excited about as a latest discovery are the wines from the island of Limnos in Greece from the winery of Savvoglou-Tsivolas. Organically certified Assyrtiko(white) and Limnio(red) based wines that offer great quality for a fraction of the price.
If you could shout out a colleague or friend in the industry who would it be and why?
My job entails dealing with multiple locations and as you understand it is physically impossible to be everywhere at once. So, in this case you give me a great opportunity to give a shout out to Sommeliers, Bartenders and Managers all over the world that maintain the Milos standards when it comes to the wine and cocktail programs. It is really important to have a group of devoted workers that have a passion for what they do and pay attention to detail.
What is the best food city?
I like different cuisines and I have had great experiences in different cities but after being in New York for 12 years I can say it has everything that I have ever asked for in terms of dining out. So, it is simply the best when it comes to that!
How do you relax outside of work?
I like spending quality time connecting with my wife and/or friends. Being with people is always more relaxing for me and this is something I love about working in restaurants. Otherwise, I will gladly watch a movie or binge-watch one of my favorite shows.
What is your astrology sign (including moon and rising)?
Pisces (had to google the below)
