The popular Sydney Bligh Street souvlaki spot Janus Bar has been treating bankers and lawyers to a smokey taste of Greece. Nestled between Chifley Square and Governor Phillip Tower, Janus Bar is owned by George Michael and managed by Georgina Ellenis.
Michael attributes Janus’ popularity to its versatility — it can be a quick lunch or a place to linger. He recalled the dire pandemic days.
“I remember $200 days,” he told The Australian Financial Review. “No one was coming back into the city, especially in this building. Other areas were getting more people. We had to push and do something different, so I pulled the barbecue out.”
Manager Ellenis clarified that Janus didn’t always have yeeros available. “At first, we only did the yeeros on certain days, Tuesdays and Fridays. Once we started doing this, it hasn’t stopped. They stay here all afternoon. They like the theatre of the barbecue, the smell. You can’t really get an outdoor barbecue in the city.”
Janus’ drinks also draw a crowd. Ellenis said Sapporo beer, sauvignon blancs and Aperol spritzes are favourites.
The financial appeal of Janus bar makes it a favourite compared to its high-priced neighbours, Chophouse, Grill Americano and Rockpool Bar & Grill. While Chophouse sells a double lamb chop for $62, fresh barbecued chicken or lamb wrapped in pita can be snapped up for $21 at Janus.
One Janus regular said, “As an investment banker, Janus is a good place to meet with clients when wanting an option out of the office.” Another referred to it as a “mullet… business in the front, party in the back.”
Source: Australian Financial Review
