WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Lexi Portokallis (Kolonaki), Jan Ras (Ouzeri), Supplied
Dreaming of salty olives, meze, crisp sea air and whitewashed walls? These three local med-inspired restaurants will transport you straight to Greece and Cyprus without the cost of air tickets.
Ethos
Situated on the uber-hip Oxford restaurant strip in Rosebank, Ethos is the epitome of Greek luxury. It even comes with monumental columns, dramatic arches and a soft, subtle colour palette that would impress the gods on Mount Olympus. Interior designer Giorgio Tatsakis oversaw the decor for this Mediterranean-inspired eatery, imbuing it with a pared-back yet striking mood that is the perfect partner to a moreish menu. Expect dishes such as Iberico pork neck skewers with ancho-scented romesco sauce, baba ganoush, lamb kofte, and other traditional “Med” specialities. ethos.sa
Kolonaki
Always filled with happy customers, this festive Parkhurst institution celebrates Mediterranean meze and family-style dining. The relaxed, friendly vibe and consistently good Greek and Mediterranean cuisine make it a firm favourite. We love the indoor-outdoor flow and breezy atmosphere – and the screed flooring, touches of wood, luscious plants and prolific cane slatting lend an authentic Aegean island feel to the Atmos-designed interior. It’s the perfect spot for lounging, picking on small plates and pretending you’re holidaying on Hydra… kolonaki.co.za
Ouzeri
A new kid on the Cape Town scene, Ouzeri (Greek for “taverna”) is the first restaurant by chef Nic Charalambous. Highlighting Cypriot and Greek cuisine, and using nostalgia as a basis for his recipes, chef Nic crafted his offering around family recipes and his travels across the Mediterranean. Unpretentious (and delicious) food paired with a creative wine list in a setting that transports you straight to cobbled streets make this newbie an immediate hit. Interiors by Master Studio draws on regional influences to create a space that matches the food, with recessed wall shelving, textured plaster and patterned fabrics referencing classic Cypriot tavernas. ouzeri.co.za
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