This week, Give Me Astoria sat down with George Rallis, partial owner, chef and mastermind behind William Hallet restaurant. George is one of Astoria’s wackiest personalities, and we can’t tell if he’s super cool or not. We’ll let you guys decide. 

George Rallis

How long have you lived in Astoria?

9 years.

What’s the best part of living in Astoria?

Me. And the hodgepodge of people– the diversity of all the people.

How did you get into the restaurant business?

I was 11 years old, and my parents sent my brothers to Greece. They sent me to work in my uncle’s restaurant. AT 11 YEARS OLD. WHO DOES THAT. I was a dishwasher prep guy, and I’ve been in restaurants ever since.

Do you have any hobbies?

I like to get up early in the morning and go jogging in Astoria Park. The fresh air helps me clear my mind and think of new ideas.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

To always be witty. In any situation.

What if you were getting mugged?

I wouldn’t.

Why do you have half a beard? 

‘Cause everyone in Astoria has a beard…so I have a mustache.

If you weren’t in the restaurant business, what would you be doing?

Porn. Or construction. Or both.

What’s your biggest accomplishment?

NOT GETTING ANYONE PREGNANT. And driving from New York City to Ohio in 5 hours. I had to tell my parents not to say a word the entire ride, or I’d kick them out of the car. As soon as we got there, my mom ripped in to me for five minutes straight. Also, I might’ve climbed Mt. Kilamanjaro. Alone.

How many tattoos do you have?

21.

What’s your favorite?

My tattoo family.

Why does it look like a 5 year old drew it?

I drew it.

Oh. Okay.

What hair products do you use?

Blow dryer. Medium sized curling brush. Pomade gel. Hair spray.

What’s the best piece of advice you can offer to our readers?

Don’t believe everything you read on the internet. I don’t actually go jogging. STOP BEING LAZY.

Also, George never smiles. It’s his thing.