Thanasi Kokkinakis might be better known for his on-court achievements tennis, but off court he’s a serious food lover, according to good food and the Sydney Morning Herald.
Heading into this year’s Australian Open, where he’s slated to play doubles with close friend Nick Kyrgios and, fitness permitting, singles too, Kokkinakis has also been exploring the food and drinks world. He recently filmed a lamb-cooking segment with chef Curtis Stone, and serves as an ambassador for Altos tequila, an official sponsor of the tournament.
While training and rehab have dominated his schedule, Kokkinakis says nothing beats a lively meal with friends. That’s why Jim’s Greek Tavern in Collingwood holds a special place in his heart. “It feels like a chaotic family backyard,” he says speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald. The fish – especially blue-eye trevalla – and the lamb remain firm favourites.
Melbourne’s food scene is rich in his rotation: Marbl Steakhouse in Prahran, where the wagyu rib-eye impresses; Gilson in South Yarra for cotoletta with wood-fired bread and burrata; Marion Wine Bar’s flatbread and vodka pasta; Maison Batard for French steak and salad; and Oushou for quality Japanese.
For takeaway, he recommends Zeus Street Greek Food – especially the seasoned fried pita chips and, on cheat days, fried chicken or a smash burger.
His café picks include Norman South Yarra (famed for chilli scramble and oat lattes), Operator Diner’s TikTok-famous fried chicken and waffles, Hector’s Deli’s mushroom melt, Urban Provedore coffee and Yugen Dining’s weekend brunch matcha.
Overseas, London tops his list, with Greek favourite Zephyr in Notting Hill, Myrtos, Gold and the vibrant Park Xinhua. At home, it’s fried eggs with avocado, and his ultimate guilty pleasure: a glazed doughnut.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald
