About Us

Papa Steve…Past & Present

Stamatis Langos, born on the Island of Kos, Greece in 1930, grew up dreaming of a chance to build a life for himself in America.

He joined the Merchant Marines at age 18 and travelled the world by ship for several years. It was there he learned to prepare food as a Marine Cook in the Steward Division.

Steve had the opportunity to come to the United States in 1956 at the age of 26. He lived with his aunt and uncle and began working at a large hotel in Pittsburg, PA. Shortly thereafter that he was introduced to a young lady named Julie. They soon married and settled in Cleveland, OH to raise their family. During Steve’s early years in Cleveland he sharpened his cooking skills at a popular luncheonette on public square, called Park Lunch Diner.

Steve’s goal was to own and operate a restaurant that he would some day pass on to his children. In 1961 he opened his first, the Dennison Restaurant. Several years later Steve was offered a chef position in a new prominent restaurant chain, the Brown Derby. His talent and business acumen were rewarded with a promotion. He managed all kitchens in the Brown Derby chain and later became the Executive Chef of the Brown Derby’s commissary.

In 1988 Steve & his family opened Steve’s Place in Aurora, Ohio. This is where Steve adopted the name “Papa Steve,” a term of affection and respect used by the staff and regulars at the restaurant. It is also where Steve realized his dream to pass on his legacy to his children. Steve’s sons accepted ownership of the restaurant and named it Papous Tap & Grille in 2000. “Papou” means grandfather in Greek, the name chosen to honor Papa Steve. The family continues operations to this day, a legacy now spanning 30 years.