Balaclava Seafoods/Fish & Chips was successfully run by three Greek families for approximately 75 years and has operated continuously for more than 100 years.
The three Greek families operating it were:
1922 – 1932: The Kostopoulos family, from Agioi Saranta, Ithaca.
1932 – 1965: The Anagnostatos and Lekatsas families from the island of Ithaca.
1965 – 1996: The Megas family from Argos Orestikon, Kastoria.
It is worth noting that prior to the Balaklava fish & chips shop, the Anagnostatos and Lekatsas families were both fishmongers in the Bendigo in the early 1900’s.
Meanwhile, the Megas family continues the fishmonger tradition with Peter Megas operating a fresh seafood outlet at Prahran Market, known as ‘Claringbolds’
For decades, shops like this dominated the fast-food landscape throughout Melbourne, providing quality, affordable food. Achieving this, however, involved physically strenuous tasks, long hours, and challenging customer interactions.
In many ways, these locally owned and operated shops strengthen community connections. Thousands of Greek Australian families, throughout the State of Victoria, are documented as owners of such establishments commencing from the 1880’s.
Greek Australians were some of the pioneers of the fast-food industry, providing affordable food to working class families and simultaneously a steady income to newly arrived Greek immigrants who ventured into the industry.
The historical, social and economic phenomenon of fish and chips shops has a rightful position within our migratory history. Hopefully one day this may be recognized and studied accordingly.
