Demitri’s Feast

The Verdict

Everyone’s favourite Greek brunch bar has undergone a good old-fashioned pivot. Demetri’s Feast built its rep among Richmond locals (and the foodie blogosphere) on brekky fusion like baklava French toast: eggy brioche topped with Greek yogurt, orange blossom syrup and walnut praline. It was widely regarded as some of the tastiest, and balls-iest, breakfast going around. Pop by on Saturday morning and you had to queue just to get a spot.

But for owner Jim Karabagias, it was time to wind the brunch thing down and try something new. The doors closed, and the planning began. A few months later, Demetri’s Feast re-opened as a Greek mezze and ouzo bar. Probably the only dedicated one in Melbourne.

The essence of the place hasn’t changed. Sitting in the sun-dappled courtyard out back, you could still be in downtown Athens, except now you’ll be nibbling on mezze plates like crispy whitebait with ouzo aioli or fresh-grilled lamb Keftedes with tzatziki.

It goes without saying that the cocktail and spirit list has been given a serious bump, with Karabagias sourcing some truly rare ouzos you won’t find anywhere else. Negroni fans should check out the Sevasmos 1919, a Greek twist spiked with mastic and pink grapefruit juice. Personally though, we’ll be pouring ourselves a glass of Retsina, munching char-grilled octopus, and waiting for the Zorba to start. Opa indeed. 

Image credit: Jenna Fahey-White