Melbourne’s Greek dining scene is set to welcome a major new addition, with Halo, a three storey taverna led by an all-star hospitality team, opening on Chapel Street this summer.
The new restaurant at 144 Chapel Street, Windsor, will bring traditional Greek hospitality together with contemporary Mediterranean flavours, led by head chef Evan Georgopoulos, whose recent success at Sydney’s acclaimed Olympic Meats helped put Greek cuisine in the national spotlight.
Halo marks the return of Melbourne hospitality heavyweight Simon Blacher to running a single venue after 14 years leading Commune Group, the team behind popular restaurants including Hanoi Hannah, Tokyo Tina and Moonhouse.
He is joined by Nick Vas and Greg Stanogias from Elia Greek Tavern, creating one of Melbourne’s strongest Greek hospitality collaborations in years.
Greek food takes centre stage
The menu is built around the spirit of the traditional Greek taverna, with generous dishes designed for sharing.
Guests can expect house made pita cooked to order, seasonal meze, traditional dips, charcoal grilled skewers and gyros inspired by generations of Greek family recipes.
Georgopoulos said the philosophy behind the kitchen reflects the heart of Greek cooking.
“Greek food has never been about precise technique or perfection, but rather an intense generosity coupled with a feel for ingredients.”
His approach builds on the success of Olympic Meats in Marrickville, which recently earned recognition in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide for its Peloponnesian inspired cooking.
A Mediterranean drinks list
The Greek influence extends beyond the kitchen.
Halo’s drinks menu will feature Mediterranean wines served in carafes alongside cocktails inspired by Greece, including Martinis with Kalamata olives.
The restaurant will occupy a heritage listed building dating back to 1925, with three levels including a restaurant and bar, semi private dining spaces and a rooftop designed for long lunches and late night gatherings.
Another boost for Greek dining
Halo’s arrival comes as Greek cuisine continues to gain momentum across Australia, with restaurants embracing both traditional recipes and contemporary interpretations of classic flavours.
With an experienced hospitality team and a chef whose cooking is already making waves, Halo is shaping up to become one of Melbourne’s most anticipated restaurant openings of the summer.