George Gountas wins look-alike contest at NYC restaurant

On June 15, 2025, a Mexican restaurant named Son Del North located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York, held a contest to celebrate its first anniversary by inviting participants to impersonate the popular actor Pedro Pascal. Despite inclement weather featuring rain, the event drew nearly 30 contestants who were motivated by friends or significant others to showcase their resemblance to the star, known for his roles in 'The Mandalorian' and 'The Last of Us.' The contest gained widespread attention, leading the restaurant's management to prepare for a substantial turnout, resulting in a temporary closure during the event. The contest featured a series of rounds beginning with 25 participants who made individual appearances in front of an eager crowd. Contestants leveraged various tactics to impress judges and the audience, many incorporating their pets or children into their presentations. The excitement escalated when a late entrant joined right before the initial rounds concluded. Judges subsequently narrowed down the competitors to the top three, culminating in a decisive victory for George Gountas, aka Pedro number five, who was recognized for his impressive impersonation. George Gountas, a lighting designer for Comedy Central's 'The Daily Show,' attributed his participation to a playful push from his wife, Jenny Gania, who had long insisted that he resembled the actor. She emphasized that the contest coincided with Father's Day, further motivating him to partake in what she considered a whimsical gift for him. Gountas admitted to lacking a presence on social media, creating an ironic twist to his sudden online popularity as the contest winner. In addition to the title, Gountas received a $50 cash prize and a year's supply of free burritos, while the runners-up were awarded gift cards. The event shed light on community engagement and the celebratory atmosphere fostered by Son Del North, showcasing the enthusiasm for celebrity culture and the fun inherent in look-alike contests even amidst unexpected weather conditions. Overall, this lively competition encouraged participation and laughter, embodying the spirit of the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere while honoring its uniqueness in a city known for its culinary offerings.