Among New York’s charming Upper East Side neighborhoods is the Lexington Candy Shop, a restaurant with a nearly 100-year history that now attracts crowds of locals and tourists alike. The secret to its success? The traditional, old-fashioned method of serving Coca-Cola, which caused a sensation when it went viral on social media.

The restaurant, although it has been associated with creating one of the world’s most popular soft drinks, has a distinct Greek stamp, thanks to John Philis. John, in partnership with his family, maintains the Lexington Candy Shop in its authentic, vintage condition and continues to offer customers a sense of the past. With decor reminiscent of the 1940s, the restaurant is not just a dining spot, but a living reference to the town’s history.

John Philis’ ancestry is Greek. His grandfather, Sotirios Philis, immigrated from Northern Epirus in 1921 and opened the Lexington Candy Shop in 1925, offering authentic American food and refreshments, creating a space that soon became a favorite hangout for New Yorkers. John and his family have kept the tradition alive and continue to offer authentic American cuisine, along with some great Greek flavors, such as Greek omelet and salad.

The method of serving Coca-Cola at Lexington Candy Shop is unique: The owner fills the glass with Coca-Cola syrup from the pump and adds soda, stirring it with the skill of a seasoned professional. The highlight? A scoop of vanilla ice cream that elevates the flavor, making the soda sweeter and creamier. This traditional method, known as the “Coca-Cola float,” was lost in many other venues, but Lexington Candy Shop keeps it alive and revives the charm of the past.

This unique serving style caused a stir when a video featuring it went viral on social media. Thousands of users were impressed by the traditional way and the Lexington Candy Shop gained new fame, with visitors rushing in from all over the world to experience and taste the authentic Coca-Cola float.

But the restaurant isn’t just about Coca-Cola. The Lexington Candy Shop serves other American favorites, from egg creams to burgers and fries. The menu may not be overly extensive, but each dish is made with care and a love of tradition. As John says, the restaurant is more than a coffee shop; it’s a place that keeps the history and charm of New York alive.

The Lexington Candy Shop is a link in the bridge that connects Greek traditions with American culture, while continuing to be a point of reference for all visitors to the city who want to experience the authentic taste of New York and the rich heritage of Greeks abroad.