Houston Cafe

The building that houses the Houston Cafe traces its origins back to the late 19th century, originally recognized as an Italian coffee house. Known as “Italia,” it is believed to be the first café on the island. In the early 20th century, the Karalis family purchased the property and maintained it as a café for decades. In 1955, it was renamed “Houston” by Michael Karalis, son of Andreas Karalis, after spending years as an immigrant in Houston, Texas. From that point, Houston remained a family-run establishment, operated by Andreas’ four children—Michael, Katina, Kleanthi, and Stamatia—until its revival in 2017.

The café’s renaissance came under the stewardship of John Kavouras, the godson of the last generation of the Karalis family, and his partner in the venture, Alex Agrios. Together, they achieved the delicate balance of preserving the café’s rich historical character while infusing it with contemporary energy. This thoughtful transformation has made Houston a standout on the island, seamlessly blending its historical patina with modern functionality.

Since its rebirth, Houston has redefined local entertainment and dining culture, quickly earning a loyal following among both locals and visitors. It is a vibrant all-day destination, offering coffee, pastries, breakfast, snacks, salads, and appetizers. The menu, carefully curated by John and Alex, includes unique selections inspired by the café’s storied past, reflecting their shared passion for exceptional food.

Houston is more than a café—it’s a piece of living history and a must-visit spot on the island. From morning coffee to late-night gatherings, it continues to delight with its timeless charm and modern appeal.