Street could be co-named after restaurant owner

The street where Tom's Restaurant has stood since 1936 may soon get a new name.
The new owners and a local council member are working to co-name Washington Avenue near Sterling Place after the latest owner of the restaurant, Gus Vlahavas.
The restaurant was named after the original owner Tom Vlahavas, but Tom 's son, Gus ran the family business for decades before passing away in November. Now, his family wants to share Washington Street in his honor.
"Even though the place is named Tom's after his dad, it was really Gus that brought it into today's day and age. He kind of reinvented it. I think he was a pioneer between handing out food for people waiting in line, the hospitality that he was able to carry through from years ago, so I think it would just be a great tribute to him and the family," says Jimmy Kokotas.
Community Board 8 approved the street co-naming last month and the family is now waiting on the approval of the City Council and the mayor, who will have the final say.
City Council Member Laurie Cumbo says she is spearheading the renaming efforts and expects to have City Council vote on the measure this summer.