Alia, Canberra’s newest Greek restaurant, opens up on 6 March and promises to transport diners to a realm of culinary delight and family warmth.
According to, hercanberra.com, the restaurant is designed drawing inspiration from Nik Bulum’s childhood memories of festive feasts. The creative force behind Lonsdale Street aims to recreate the anticipation and joy of those gatherings in Alia’s ambiance and cuisine.
The former Zoo Bar site on London Circuit has undergone a remarkable transformation into a temple of Greek gastronomy.
“Think olive oil, lemon, oregano, bread, fish, vegetables and olives. Nothing complicated or staged but just really simple, beautiful, delicious Greek flavours and techniques from our grandparents,” said Nik to hercanberra.com.
Led by Chef John Santos, Alia’s kitchen promises a menu brimming with classic Greek dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. From whole grilled flathead and grilled watermelon salad to Saganaki baked cheese and Spanakopita pie, each dish reflects Nik’s Greek heritage and his appreciation for the healthful qualities of Mediterranean cuisine.
And how could it be a Greek restaurant without offering a Chicken Souvlaki with pita, tzatziki, and tirokafteri, or a slow-cooked Lamb Gyros served on flat bread with garlic sauce, onion, and cucumber?
Desserts are the classics of Tiramisu or a Baklava cheesecake.
The restaurant is a bit “temple-like” according to Nik—restrained to a colour scheme of warm whites, creams and beige, with marble tables, velvet upholstery and linen curtains dividing the space.
“Really, it’s all about relaxing over a huge, delicious meal in an elevated setting,” said Nik.
“The food will feel like a Greek family dinner.”
Source: hercanberra.com
