Fine dining is out, Hellenic dirty food is in. Well, at least when it comes to Exhibition St. Gazi Restaurant has replaced The Press Club at No. 2 Exhibition St and everybody seems happy about it.
The staff are eager, the Chefs have the spit ready and the diners are hungry. On a Sunday afternoon, local Greek families are lining up for a table. When they’re passing on a homecooked meal, you know you’re onto something good.
George Calombaris’ newest restaurant is bringing casual cuisine back to the table. He’s let loose with Greek favourites like souvaki, tzatziki and moussaka but when you can see a thermomix, two spits and a deep fryer in the kitchen, you know this is no ordinary dining experience.
The souvlakakia are smaller than the pita pockets jammed with meat that you’ll get on the streets of Greece, but the tender pieces of beef brisket, handful of thin chips and moreish mustard mayo at Gazi have none of the guilt factor. And they’re small enough to try a few – there’s chicken, duck and a very popular crab souvlakia.
The wood fire grill and wood fire spit are used for more substantial dishes so it’s worth bringing a few friends along too. Don’t skip the sides – brussel sprouts tossed with soft manouri cheese and golden raisins are your daily serve of veggies and save room for dessert. The ouzo menu is long, as it should be, and the bottom half of the trolley is stocked with Greek chocolates.
Gazi Restaurant
2 Exhibition St Melbourne VIC
T: (03) 9207 7444
@GaziRestaurant
