When Jenny and Nick Hatzidimitriou’s 20 year old son Jamie approached themwith a passion to open a trendy cafe they knew their family had what it took.
After much preparation Limelight opened its doors late last year to eager customers seeking a fresh dining experience in Doncaster’s East.
“We’ve always had our eye on this spot and once it became available we jumped to grab it because we knew the area didn’t have much to offer in terms of casual dining- there’s only fine-dining or take-away.”
The family is overwhelmed with the neighbourhood support and despite Doncaster’s predominant Greek community Limelight’s modern Mediterranean cuisine attracts a diverse clientele.
Having only been opened for two months we’ve been voted in the top five Mediterranean restaurants and top six cafes in the Doncaster and Templestowe area on Urban Spoon” says Jenny, adding ” We could not have done it without our chef Peter.” True to its name the cafe sure does catch your eye with its striking interior design and colour scheme complete with chic outside alfresco dining attracting both young and old,
“Jamie and I chose the colour scheme together. We really liked the lime and charcoal combination and so when someone said to call it Limelight we immediately said yes!”
As previous part-owners of Melissa in Lower Templestowe, Jenny and Nick gained the experience and wisdom to begin her own business venture and credits the dedication of family to a promising start.
“A lot of family work in our business from cousins to nieces and nephews,” Jenny says adding, “I’ve always believed the family business dynamic is good because you can trust they will work hard for you and do the best they can.”
Admittedly, Jenny says running a small business doesn’t go without its challenges. “A small business is very personal so you want to keep everyone happy. Satisfying your staff as well as your customers helps to run things smoothly,” Jenny said.
“Having owned a business before has taught me valuable lessons in what and what not to do.” Head chef Peter Papatsaras is responsible for some of Limelight’s most popular dishes including the salt and pepper calamari and an unlikely addition to any menu-Kangaroo.
“It’s our most popular main believe it or not!” laughs Jenny. “Kangaroo is tricky to cook but Chef Peter has mastered it.” Served on a bed of sweet potato mash and roasted vegetables, the kangaroo is a must try for meat lovers. In starting her own business Jenny was not disheartened by the current economy.
“Yes spending is down but people always need to get out, unwind and catch-up with family and friends.” Jenny’s friendly smile makes it easy to see that she is in her element when interacting with customers in her cafe.
“The best part about my work is the constant contact with people and of course being able to work together with my son to build a successful business.” With its constant buzzing atmosphere and enthusiastic family work ethic Limelight is proof that you can successfully mix business with family.
