Chip's Family Restaurant Owner Dies, Mourned By Community

ORANGE, CT — George Chatzopoulos, owner of the Connecticut-based Chip's Family Restaurant chain famous for its pancakes, died this week, leaving behind a legacy of care and generosity, according to media reports and posts on social media.

Chatzopoulos' sister and business partner, Dina Bajko, confirmed the news to the New Haven Register on Tuesday, noting her brother died peacefully in her arms Monday night after a yearlong battle with brain cancer.

Word of Chatzopoulos' passing began flooding social media Tuesday, with many noting the restauranteur's generous and caring nature and warm personality.

In a Facebook post Tuesday, Connecticut Restaurant Association president Scott Dolch referred to Chatzopoulos, who he noted was a former board member with the association, as both an incredible restaurateur and friend.

"He was such a special person who cared so deeply about our industry," Dolch said on Facebook, "and he was always there to support me personally as I grew in my role with the CRA. It is a tough day knowing that he is gone and I give my best to his loved ones, friends and his restaurant family."

In an email to Patch, Dolch said Chatzopoulos "lived the true American dream," starting his career in the restaurant industry at an entry level position and working his way up to becoming the owner and operator of multiple restaurants throughout Connecticut.

"As great as he was as a business owner, he was an even better person," Dolch said. "He loved our industry and has left a lasting impact. Our deepest sympathies are with his loved ones, friends and his restaurant family."

Chatzopoulos, who was known by most people as 'Georgie,' immigrated to the United States from Greece in 1987 and worked in the restaurant business for many years before taking over Chip's in 2003, according to the restaurant's website.

The restaurant chain was established in 1966 and currently operates locations in Orange, Fairfield, Wethersfield, Southbury and Southington.

Upon taking over, Chatzopoulos strived to maintain the restaurant's culture of quality, service and community. Proud of his Greek heritage, he fused Mediterranean favorites with traditional American comfort food to create a diner beloved by the community.

According to the New Haven Register, Chatzopoulos was also known throughout the community as a philanthropist, having held many "pancakes for dinner" fundraisers at his restaurant and donated items such as pancake batter, coffee and equipment for a number of community and church fundraisers.

Orange First Selectman James Zeoli was out of office Tuesday afternoon and could not be reached for comment.

Patch has reached out to Chip's Family Restaurant for further information.