Sydney’s love for Greek cuisine has intensified over the past year, with a growing number of restaurants opening and an exciting culinary takeover. Greek food enthusiasts can now look forward to new dining experiences as the city embraces this flavorful trend.
Manta’s Greek Culinary Takeover
Starting on March 21, renowned Greek chef Ntinos Fotinakis will take over the kitchen at Manta at Woolloomooloo Wharf for a two-week pop-up. Fotinakis, who is known for his work at Bungalow 7 at the One&Only Aesthesis resort in Athens, will offer a set menu ranging from $85 to $105 per person. The menu features dishes like taramasalata with yuzu and Fotinakis’ signature lobster pasta. Manta’s owner, Bill Drakopoulos, aims to bring more Greek flavors to his portfolio, aligning with the popular culinary trends of seafood pastas and raw fish, which suit Sydney’s warm climate.
Sydney’s Growing Greek Dining Scene
Sydney’s Greek food scene has been booming, with several new restaurants making their mark. Olympus Dining, which opened in Redfern in December, has received attention for its unique offerings, such as lambs’ brains tiganita. Ammos, located in Brighton-le-Sands and launched by chef Peter Conistis, has impressed diners with its shellfish saganaki. Conistis has also opened Ela Ela in the Sydney CBD at the Bristol Arms Hotel, which complements a rooftop souvlaki bar. Meanwhile, Olympic Meats in Marrickville has drawn crowds for its authentic gyros wrapped in hand-made sourdough pita. Bondi Beach will soon welcome Kazzi in May, a popular spot with locations in Manly and Balmoral.
Sydney Surpasses Melbourne in Modern Greek Dining
Sydney’s status as a leader in modern Greek cuisine has grown, surpassing Melbourne in this culinary trend. Chicago restaurateurs recently turned to local talent, such as David Tsirekas, who is widely credited for pioneering contemporary Greek cuisine with Perama in Petersham, which opened in 1993. Tsirekas, now consulting in the U.S., is developing a Greek-inspired fast-casual concept, reflecting the city’s growing appetite for inventive Greek dishes. Sydney diners have embraced dishes like skate and liver, moving beyond traditional tavernas.
The Rise of Greek Cuisine: A Cultural Shift
Greek Consul General Ioannis Mallikourtis attributes the surge in Greek dining to increased Australian tourism to Greece. He emphasizes the healthy balance of vegetables, seafood, and olive oil that Greek cuisine offers. The variety of dining options in Sydney, from affordable souvlaki spots to upscale fusion venues, ensures there’s something for every taste. Tsirekas, who recently returned from Chicago, praised the authenticity of Olympic Meats and the bold flavors at Kazzi. However, he noted that Ploos at The Rocks has closed, with chef Peter Conistis severing ties.
More Greek Restaurants Coming Soon
Chef Con Dedes, who is behind Flying Fish and Sala Dining, has recently acquired Alpha in the CBD. Dedes believes the growing demand for Greek cuisine will continue to fuel this culinary resurgence. With more Greek dining venues expected to open in Sydney, the city’s love for Greek cuisine shows no signs of slowing down.
Related topics: