Kokoras Brings Charcoal-Grilled Greek Chicken Glory To Yarraville

The chicken shop is Melbourne’s next big thing, and the new Yarraville opening proves why—nostalgia, affordability and finger-licking succulence. Kokoras comes from Alex Xinis (Hellenic Republic, The Press Club) and the team behind highly acclaimed Tsaki, the Athenian vibe wine bar just two doors down. Ideally, lunch would be Kokoras and dinner Tsaki (if only I lived in Yarraville).

Kokoras blends old-school chicken shop nostalgia with a zesty modern Greek twist: charcoal-grilled, spatchcocked chicken, crisp seasonal salads and house-made sides with great ingredients. The chicken’s brined overnight in a lemony, thyme-rich blend so flavour permeates every bite while ensuring peak succulence. It’s basted over the flames and finished with silky lemon, herb and olive oil dressing. They aren’t mucking around with flavour here—it’s go hard or go home.

“Everyone has a chicken shop memory,” says Alex. “We wanted to take that feeling and give it a modern, healthier twist, something you can enjoy a few nights a week, not just as an indulgent treat.”

That charcoal flavour runs through the menu, like the spicy capsicum dip with flame-kissed peppers for serious depth.

A full salad bar greets you on entry. Options rotate, but don’t skip the punchy, herb-packed chickpea salad with charred peppers, velvet-soft lemony potatoes, pita or dips. Come hungry.​

We also love the non-alcoholic drinks: indie-brewed Australian sodas like Cielo’s Yuzu and Okinawan lime (which pairs with chicken like fine wine) and Mischief Brew.

The shop’s design—by After Hours studio and Wingnut (of Masses Bagels fame)—brings bold colours and industrial edginess that matches the food’s vibrant energy.

With free local delivery (in-house, old-school style) on Wednesdays, rotating salads, affordable prices and heart, Kokoras is made for repeat visits.

Kokoras is now open at 27 Ballarat Street, Yarraville, Monday to Friday from 11:30am to 9pm.​