The Diamond: an Osoyoos tradition for over 45 years and Gus and Maria’s love story.
Gus, who was born in Paros, Greece in 1953, immigrated to Canada in 1970. He settled in Montreal and
lived with relatives.
Gus’ love for nature and the outdoors was what inspired him to relocate to British Columbia. His many
road trips to the South Okanagan, his friendship with the original owners of the Diamond, and his
fondness for the small community of Osoyoos, led him to the doors of the Diamond kitchen, where he
began working as a cook in 1981.
Meanwhile, Maria, who was born in Portugal in 1963, immigrated to Osoyoos with her family in 1968.
Growing up on the family orchard made young Maria curious about different job opportunities. So, in
1978, Maria landed her first “real” job at the Diamond. She started off as bus girl and graduated to
server.
Here is where Gus and Maria’s beautiful love story begins: Gus, the cook and Maria, the server, met
while working at the Diamond. They fell in love and tied the knot in 1983. Gus and Maria continued to
work at the Diamond until 1986 when they decided to open their own restaurant in Coquitlam, British
Columbia. Their restaurant, Vero’s Place operated for ten years.
In 1996, the landlord of Vero’s Place decided he wasn’t ready to retire, which left Gus, Maria and their
four boys unsure about their future. After reflecting, the family discovered there was only one place
they wanted to be: Osoyoos.
Fate was on their side, because The Diamond miraculously came up for sale! Thus, in 1997, the Tsigonias
family knew it was meant to be. The rest is history!
From the Sterling Silver beef, authentic Greek cuisine, hand-pressed pizza, fall-off-the- bone ribs,
lasagna (which is still made the same way as when Gus and Maria started at the Diamond), along with
many other delicious entrees, there is something on the menu for everyone.
Gus and Maria take great pride in making sure that from the moment you walk through the door, you
are treated like family, you leave with full belly, and you feel like The Diamond is home.
Make your reservation today and let the story continue! We encourage you to visit the Diamond
Facebook page and share your Diamond story!