Moonee Ponds’ legendary Greek restaurant, Philhellene, is embarking on an exciting new chapter under the stewardship of Paul Chatzis, the new owner who aims to spotlight the Epirus region of Greece.
According to The Herald Sun, Paul, who recently took the helm of Philhellene alongside his wife Anna, aims to bring to the people a taste of his home beginning with a distinctive olive oil. “My best friend is producing it, down the road from where I grew up, and we’re the only ones to have it in Australia,” he said.
Eight months into their new venture on Mount Alexander Road, the couple is close to revealing the restaurant’s renovated dining area, kitchen, and wine cellar.
Spiros Kassidis of The Strand in Williamstown taking has taken the role of the head chef. Kassidis is set to enrich the menu with a selection of Greek imports in the near future.
“We’re moving forward while respecting tradition,” Paul said.
“We haven’t changed the menu, though, as people love Greek food and there are a lot of traditional dishes and crowd favourites.”
Instead he’ll test the waters by sharing Epirus regional dishes on the specials menu.
“(The region is known for) having a lot of meat spits, so chicken, lamb and pork. And we’re famous for filo pies and pastries,” he said.
Paul’s dad has been a long-time chef at Oakleigh’s famed Kalimera Souvlaki Art.
Philhellene also holds a special place in the couple’s hearts.
“We met at the restaurant – and even got married there. It has a sentimental background for us,” Paul said.
Source: The Herald Sun
