Crown Melbourne is set to welcome beloved Greek chef, Giannis Kalyvas, as he makes his return to the Melbourne culinary scene with a three-week long namesake pop-up, The Real Greek Chef, in the stylish Evergreen dining space.
From 28 April, guests will be transported to the Mediterranean with a family-style menu of shared plates that combine the authentic flavours of Greek cuisine with fresh Australian produce, serving up crowd favourites such as Lamb Kontosouvli, Stuffed Calamari, Grilled Octopus and Ekmek Kataifi.
Giannis is a chef, food content creator and restaurant consultant who first appeared on the Melbourne hospitality scene upon moving to Australia in 2017 and opening his hugely popular Reservoir-based restaurant, The Real Greek Chef of Melbourne.
Crown Melbourne’s Executive General Manager of Food and Beverage, Enda Cunningham, said: “We take our role in Melbourne’s thriving hospitality industry seriously.”
“Crown Melbourne is proud to be working with some of the best chef talent in the country – and indeed the world – to further elevate our world-class culinary offering, providing guests with new and diverse dining experiences.,” Mr Cunningham added.
“Giannis captures the essence of his rich Greek culture with fresh local produce, distinct flavours and
family-style dining. We are very pleased to be bringing this taste of the Mediterranean to Melbourne diners.”
As hospitality leaders in Australia, Crown has cemented its place as the prime destination for world-class culinary experiences through its unparalleled portfolio of diverse and widely celebrated restaurants across all three properties.
Crown Melbourne’s partnership with The Real Greek Chef represents the latest example of this and Crown’s ongoing support for the hospitality industry’s revival.
Having built a significant fan following on social media, Giannis shares his heritage and Greek culture online through authentic and hearty Greek recipes and cooking content.
Giannis’ partnership with Crown Melbourne aims to deliver his passion for Greek food and his much-loved recipes to the plates of Melbourne diners.
With Melbourne’s Greek population ranking among the largest in the world outside of Athens, Giannis hopes to tap into his existing local Greek following, alongside new fans, via this not-to-be-missed pop-up.
“I’m excited to be returning to Melbourne, one of my favourite cities with many great memories at my first Australian restaurant,” Giannis said.
“The Real Greek Chef pop-up at Crown Melbourne combines all the things I love, paying homage to my Greek heritage using the fresh and vibrant produce that Australia has to offer, to serve some of my signature dishes that are close to my heart.
“Growing up in Greece, food is such an important part of our culture that brings people together, to be enjoyed with your families and friends. This is my vision for The Real Greek Chef pop-up.
“I can’t think of a better place to do this than at Crown Melbourne, an icon of the Melbourne hospitality scene who share my passion of providing high-quality food and service for a truly special dining experience.”
The Real Greek Chef restaurant pop-up will be at Crown Melbourne from 28 April to 21 May 2023. Bookings are now open and can be made at https://bit.ly/3MkCJaI.
