But how did this talented Greek end up in Belgium? Ten years later, in 1910, Leonidas Kestekides participated in the World Exhibition in Brussels as a member of the Greek-American delegation.

He presented his confectionery and patisserie creations to around thirteen million visitors. His efforts were rewarded: Leonidas was awarded the bronze medal, designed by Godefroid Devreese. His success didn’t go unnoticed. All eyes were on Leonidas Kestekides, especially those of a particular Brussels beauty, Joanna Emelia Teerlinck. Could she not resist his sweet delicacies? Or could he not resist her slim figure and porcelain skin? Leonidas and Joanna married in 1912 and Ghent became his new home.