A Greek restaurant in Brisbane has been named Queensland’s Restaurant of the Year in the Courier-Mail Food Awards 2019.
Hellenika at the Calile owned by Simon Gloftis was awarded on Monday.
The sister venue of Hellenika on the Gold Coast, it is situated at boutique hotel The Calile, and has been recognised as being “undeniably special”.
“Maybe it’s the spring in the step of the upbeat waitstaff, the sunlight shimmering off the pool or the wafts of wholesome Greek cookery that fill the air,” read a comment by the reviewer, in The Courier Mail.
The Greek eatery first opened its doors in October 2018, and is a continuation of Hellenika’s signature authentic Greek food paired with wines from around the world, including Greece – the wine list features some 500 bottles in total – enjoyed either in the restaurant, on the rooftop, or by the pool.
The kitchen is headed by chef Bryan Kelly, a finalist for Chef of the Year, who is committed to using the freshest ingredients.
“…that means even the simplest of Greek salads is elevated to new heights, while seafood is flown in from across the country to guarantee the best,” reads the restaurant’s glowing review.
“But it is the generous amuse bouche of velvety, lemony fish soup alone that is enough to warrant many a repeat visit.”
Meanwhile Gloftis was recognised for his genuine hospitality, a philotimo, which the Greeks are known for.
“Gloftis works hard to create a happy team and it shows in the way the pink-jacketed staff treat each guest, boasting a casual but genuine warmth that radiates from the inside out.
“With passion and panache they help diners through the lengthy menu and all are well-drilled in the confident and incomparable wine list, which mixes the best of Greek wines with labels from across the world, including some under Coravin at remarkably keen prices.
“All of this is in a room that combines architectural elegance, space and comfort with a subtle nod to Greek heritage, while being undeniably Queensland.”
Other finalists in Queensland included Arc Dining (Brisbane), Joy (Fortitude Valley), Restaurant Labart (Burleigh Heads), Donna Chang (Brisbane) and Signature (South Bank).