Livadia Souvlaki – A Taste of Montreal History (1972–1976)

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Livadia Souvlaki was a small but unforgettable Greek shish kebab shop in Montreal that operated from 1972 to 1976. It was started by my father, who brought a taste of Greece to the neighborhood by serving shish kebabs, souvlaki, and donairs fresh off the grill.

The restaurant quickly became a local favorite. The smell of charcoal-grilled meat and warm pita would fill the street, drawing people in from blocks away.

As a kid, I helped the business by delivering orders by bicycle, often making 30 deliveries a day across the neighborhood. Orders were simple but legendary — fresh souvlaki wrapped in warm pita with just the right touch of tzatziki.

Eventually, the business was sold to my cousins, but the memories of Livadia Souvlaki and the people who loved it have lasted decades.

For many people in Montreal, it wasn’t just a place to eat — it was part of growing up.