Tagged: Dining

10 Reasons to love Sydney in winter

Posted on May 31, 2018 by - News & Reviews

Sydney might be renowned for endless summers by the beach, but winter allows you to see this picturesque city in a whole new light.

With crisp, clear days, the harbour takes on a true shimmer, the beaches are less crowded, and the food and fashion both transform to offer a comforting, yet cultured winter feel.

If that’s not enough to see you embrace the chill of winter in this vibrant city, here are 10 further reasons to love Sydney in winter.

The Harbour

Sydney Harbour is spectacular at any time of year, but in winter it glitters with allure under a mellowed sun. Winter is also the season when whales are welcomed to the city and there are a host of whale watching tours available from Darling Harbour that allow you to witness the wonder of whales in their natural surrounds.

Indoor activities

As the temperature cools, indoor activities heat up throughout the city. From the aquarium to the maritime museum or theatre, there’s no shortage of indoor events to keep tourists and locals entertained.

Sensational seafood

Winter serves up simply sensational Sydney seafood. In fact, this is the season when seafood is at its most abundant and the greatest range is in supply. From prawns to salmon and mussels, it’s all available and incredibly fresh. As seafood is one of our specialties, you can see our seafood menu to enjoy a taste of what’s on offer.

Long lunches

Winter is officially the season of the long lunch in Sydney as office workers, residents and tourists make the most of the warming midday sun to enjoy an outdoor meal. At Georges that lunch is set against the beautiful backdrop of the harbor and features hearty fare, mezze and seafood, all designed as the perfect accompaniment to a chilled Sydney day.

Rugging up

Winter offers the welcome opportunity to rug up in a city usually renowned for its summer style. Coats are in fashion, scarves in vogue and the style of Sydney evolves to embrace a more European and chic feel.

Beautiful beaches

The waters might only be warm enough for the exceptionally brace to swim, but the beauty of the beaches is perhaps even more striking on a crisp winter’s day. This is the time of year when the ocean is at its most powerful, the colour is at its most vibrant and the crowds are few and far between.

Welcoming walks

The average daily maximum of Sydney during winter is around 18 or 19 degrees, which is the perfect temperature to explore the city or its many national parks on foot. Enjoy a stroll from the Rocks to Darling Harbour and take in Barangaroo, or embrace nature and witness the spectacular beauty of South Head.

Less crowded

Sydney is just that little bit less crowded throughout winter, with many tourists choosing summer to visit this iconic city. That makes the cooler months the perfect time to enjoy unrestricted access to all the city’s beauty and sights.

Shimmering nights

The sunset falls around 5pm in winter, allowing an earlier evening glimpse into the majestic beauty of the city at night. Once the lights come on, this is a city transformed. The Harbour Bridge and Opera House are among the iconic Sydney landmarks that take on a whole new beauty in the evening. The Opera House now also features a lighting display on its sails each evening from sunset until 7pm.

Hearty meals

The cooler days and the chilled nights bring out the finest in winter food and fare. This is the time of year to enjoy a hearty meal, great coffee and fine wine. Think lamb, sirloin or pork to warm the heart and soul of a chilled winter’s eve. You can see our menu here for a little winter dining inspiration.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Celebrating Mother’s Day

Posted on April 14, 2018 by - Mother's Day, News & Reviews

In modern times we call it Mother’s Day, but like many elements of culture, this annual celebration of motherhood has firm roots in ancient Greece.

And while goddesses, offerings and feasts have made way for cards, crafts and presents, the ethos remains all about maternal appreciation.

So, as we look to celebrate the role of mothers around the nation on May 13, here’s a diversion into a little Greek history and the ancient symbolism that celebrating Mother’s Day holds.

Mothers celebrated in ancient Greece

Each year in spring, ancient Greeks honoured Rhea. The daughter of earth goddess Gaia and sky god Uranus, she was renowned as the mother of the Olympian gods and goddesses.

The event was traditionally celebrated by offering honey cakes, fine drinks and flowers at sunrise, and to this day in Greece many people offer their mothers cakes and flowers on Mother’s Day morning.

A modern-day celebration

These days Mother’s Day in Greece is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, as it is in most areas of the world.

It’s an event to reflect and appreciate the role of mothers and mother-figures within a family, as well as the influence of motherhood on society.

Mother’s Day at Georges

We welcome the opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day at Georges, offering a family-friendly environment to enjoy a brunch, lunch or dinner with mum at our waterside restaurant.

Whether it’s a small affair or large, we have a host of dining options available to ensure mum feels truly appreciated on her special day.

Brunch – Join us from 8am until 11.30am as we serve up a delectable Mother’s Day breakfast featuring a menu of all the family favourites like Eggs Benedict, bacon and egg rolls, pancakes or more.

Lunch – If lunch is more your mum’s style after a morning spent enjoying pampering and a well-earned relax, we have a host of dining options available including our renowned share menu, along with a la carte options.

Afternoon drinks and nibbles – Treat mum to a harbourside sunset, and spoil her with fine wine and fine fare courtesy of our lounge menu.

Dinner – Meanwhile if evening suits best, enjoy a family meal overlooking the twinkling lights of the harbour, along with a Greek banquet or a range of options from our acclaimed dining menu.

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is currently taking bookings for Mother’s Day and we look forward to sharing your family event.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Autumn dining in Sydney

Posted on February 28, 2018 by - News & Reviews

With the end of summer drawing near, dining in Sydney shifts a gear. The days are just that little bit shorter, the evenings bring with them a touch more chill, and a mix of summery specials and hearty meals intermingle on the seasonal menu.

Autumn is the time of year when a bevy of fresh produce readily abounds, ranging from grapes and pears to potatoes, eggplant and carrots.

So, let’s wine and dine our way through autumn with our favourite meals to suit the flavours of the changing season.

Crystal clear warm days

We often talk about the magic of Sydney Harbour, but autumn offers a unique feel on the water. Some days cast the mind back to the heat of high summer, while others have that familiar nip of the winter to come in the air.

The early days of autumn are still all about the great outdoors as Sydney-siders seize the final chance to enjoy the long, languid sunsets offered up by daylight savings.

Our meal suggestion? Why mezze of course, served amidst the festive vibe that the final days of warmth offer.

The best delights to encompass the flavours of early autumn include a mix of seafood and the heartier additions of chicken, lamb and pork.

Served with? Agiorgitiko Rosé or NV Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut.

A touch of chill

As daylight saving becomes but a memory, a chill creeps into the Sydney air. Now the meals become a little more hearty, the lights on the harbor twinkle earlier and their hues are just a little more bright.

This is the time of year for a meal that satiates the palate and satisfies the soul.

Our meal suggestion? Greek-style lamb, with lemon and oregano potatoes or King Prawns Saganaki baked in a clay pot, complete with tomato and feta.

Served with? Kir-Yianni Paranga Xinomavro Merlot Syrah with the lamb and Mahi ‘Twin Valleys Vineyards’ Chardonnay to accompany the prawns.

When the sun seeks refuge

Even a city of perennial sunshine like Sydney has the occasional cloudy day. And when autumn sees these moments more frequent, a meal shared with family and cooked with love is the definite order of the day.

These overcast days are the opportunities to revel in fulsome flavours, to bask in comforting warmth and to seek cuisine infused with care and comfort.

Our meal suggestion? Grassland sirloin, chat potatoes, and Dutch carrots, the grilled pork cutlet, fennel, dried figs, chickpeas and roast pumpkin or a full Greek feast banquet.

Served with? Vasse Felix Cabernet Merlot, Polin & Polin Shiraz, or Alpha Estate Xinomavro Reserve.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries.

We’ve long been established on the waterfront and welcome Sydney’s change of seasons with an array of fresh produce, seafood and intimate dining ambience.

Come share the hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Holiday entertaining made easy

Posted on December 15, 2017 by - News & Reviews

As we well and truly embrace all the festivity of the Christmas season and a sensational Sydney summer, it’s the opportunity to catch up with family and friends.

Some will be expected visitors scheduled long in advance of the holidays, but others may be surprise guests enjoying a quick stop during their travels or looking for a last-minute get-together over the holidays.

At George’s, we’re here to make those Christmas and holiday celebrations easy, and here’s an insight into how…

Serving up sensational Sydney to out of town guests

There are few things as spectacular as the Sydney Harbour on a bright summer’s day. Why not treat your out of town guests to all the beauty Sydney has to offer with a ferry ride on the water, and lunch or dinner at Darling Harbour?

You can take in the sights like the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, then kick back over a meal served in harbourside style.

Not only are you showcasing the city at its finest, but you’re saving yourself a day spent cleaning, preparing and entertaining at home.

Last minute drinks for the season that is jolly

‘Tis the season to be jolly and this festivity extends right throughout December and January as many take a welcome break from the working world.

Fancy celebrating with a quick drink with friends in relaxed yet elegant style? We’re more than happy to oblige, with a lengthy list of cocktails, imported or local beers, and crisp or sparkling wines.

Why not settle in early, watch the sun set over the harbour and enjoy the endless mezze options before indulging in an evening meal. The relaxed ambience offers plenty of opportunity to watch the passing parade, and enjoy a genuinely leisurely evening amidst the comfortable conversation of friends.

Family catch-ups in stunning surrounds

The reprieve from the 40-hour week offers the chance to reconnect with family over long lunches, catered dinners or a languid harbourside brunch.

George’s is open for breakfast every weekend and public holiday, while our waterfront lunches are renowned, and dinner serves up the opportunity to enjoy buy cheap tadalafil 20mg authentic Greek hospitality in relaxed, yet elegant surrounds.

Best of all we are a family-friendly venue, where the shared enjoyment of dining with loved ones is an essential part of who we are.

If it’s a last-minute large family get together you’re after, we are available for functions and authentic Greek banquets, and you can see our menus here for further inspiration.

Holiday romance on the festive agenda

With a little extra time on your hands over the summer holidays, it’s the perfect opportunity to rekindle the romantic vibe. Why not let the in-laws look after the children and give yourself and your partner a well-deserved evening dining experience as the lights sparkle over Sydney?

From Greek banquets to la carte, we have a host of options available when it comes to an intimate dinner just for two.

Give the gift of George’s hospitality

As the clock counts down to Christmas, George’s is embracing the season of giving, offering gift vouchers as a welcome Christmas gift.

We have a range of dining vouchers available that are destined to delight the resident foodie in your family, or someone who simply deserves an unprecedented dining experience as their present this year.

New Year’s Eve at Darling Harbour

For many, the big-ticket hospitality event of the festive season is New Year’s Eve, and at George’s we celebrate the New Year in authentic Greek style. This year we’re hosting a NYE Taverna Night with live music, entertainment and a menu that’s sure to impress.

Meanwhile, our Darling Harbour venue ensures we are at the heart of the harbourside action when the clock strikes 12 to ring in the New Year.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries.

Come share the hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up a sensational holiday season in simply stunning surrounds. You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

 

 

Weekend socialising – George’s style

Posted on October 15, 2017 by - News & Reviews

The coming weeks are among the busiest on the annual social calendar as daylight savings, Melbourne Cup then Christmas sees people seek out the opportunity to catch up with friends in the lead-up to the summer holidays and Weekend socialising.

It’s the time of year when after-work drinks, lunches, brunches and sunset dinners quickly fill any Sydney-sider’s already busy schedule.

If you’re looking to cram some festive catch-ups into the coming months, here’s a guide to packing some serious social punch into a spring or summer weekend…

Friday night

Pens down people, work’s out for the weekend, bringing with it the opportunity to catch up with friends for a casual after-work drink. You’re looking for somewhere central, yet ambient, where busy professionals can meet up for a quick recap of the week that was, or the transformative year that has been.

Friday suggestion

Join us for drinks by the harbour courtesy of our week-day happy hour. From 3pm to 7pm we’ll treat you to a stylish afternoon or evening of affordable wine, beer and some seriously irresistible cocktails.

You can kick back in our al fresco lounge and watching the passing parade as Sydney transforms from work-week caterpillar to social butterfly.

Saturday brunch

Nothing says it’s the weekend quite like a decadent breakfast in well-catered surrounds.

Weekend breakfasts are the chance to embrace a less formal setting and kick off hard-earned relaxation on just the right social note. Breakfasts or brunches are also a great way to meet up with friends and family who may work late during the week or have young families.

Breakfast suggestion

Every weekend and public holiday we lay out a breakfast bonanza featuring a choice of Eggs Benedict, omelettes, smoothies, pancakes and more. Timed to cater to the early breakfast hankerings or a leisurely brunch, breakfast is served from 8am until 11am.

The group dinner

With so many fixtures coming up on the annual calendar, now is the perfect time to invite your friends for a big Saturday dinner enjoyed with your favourite company. Whether it’s a large or small group, book a table, hit Darling Harbour and settle in for an evening of great conversation and equally fine fare.

Dinner suggestion

A banquet is always a great way to break down any social barriers while sampling all the tasty morsels available on our authentic Greek menu. You can opt for a Mezze banquet or sample the succulent delights of our full Greek feast.

Sunday lunch

After a well-earned sleep-in, Sunday is the day to bring family into the socialising fold. Why not schedule a catch-up well in advance of the Christmas rush, setting a festive tone for the season ahead? Whether it’s a table of four or a full family get-together, enjoy a leisurely lunch spent amongst those you love.

Sunday suggestion

Make it a Sunday seafood sensation with market fresh fish and a host of tasty delights like shrimp, calamari, and prawns. You can peruse our menu here for items that are sure to whet the appetite.

Afternoon recovery

And after a busy weekend wining, dining and catching up with everyone on your list, kick back in casual style overlooking the water on a dreamy Sunday afternoon. We’ll pamper you while you reminisce over the weekend that was, while plying you with shared plates, fantastic service, and authentic Mediterranean flavours.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries and Weekend socialising. Come share the family hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up a weekend of endless social activity in simply stunning surrounds.

And don’t forget, if you’re looking to really kick off the festive season with a full-scale function or office party, we’re always available to assist.

 

Australia and Greece – A shared love of seafood

Posted on September 14, 2017 by - News & Reviews, Uncategorized

Of all the culture and tradition that unites Australia and Greece, one enduring passion stands out – the shared love of seafood.

Like Australia, the waters of Greece have long abounded with fresh sea fare and for centuries it’s been a staple of the Greek diet.

So let’s take a dive into the salt waters of seafood and investigate the shared culinary favourite that unites our sea loving nations.

Seafood in Greece

Seafood in Greek culture dates back centuries due to the lengthy coastline this small nation boasts. From  sardines to calamari, bass, bream and lobster, seafood has featured heavily in this Mediterranean diet, with a host of traditional recipes derived from Greek culture.

The love of seafood is part tradition and part convenience with historians noting fish was readily available.

Cooks Info explains:  “Greece just doesn’t have good pasture land for livestock, so meat was scarce. The Greeks loved fish, but low on the scale of their likes, and thus cheapest, were small fish such as anchovies and sprats”.

“Tuna, sea bass, grey and red mullet, grouper, were esteemed and expensive. They particularly loved eel; it could cost at least 12 drachmas (a small sheep might cost 10 drachmas.)

“Fish was easier to serve than meat, because to serve meat you first had to arrange to sacrifice it, and with fish you didn’t. The first tuna caught in a good year, though, would be offered to Poseidon.”

Where once there was an abundance of fresh fish and seafood readily available in Greece, now however seafood is increasingly rare and expensive due to the overfishing and demand on the waters of the Aegean.

Influence on Australia

Australian mainstays like fried calamari may well owe much of their popularity to Greek immigrants, but according to legend even the ever-popular barramundi was introduced to dining menus across the nation by Greeks.

Neos Kosmos explains historians Leonard Janiszewski and Effy Alexakis were conducting research for Macquarie University when they uncovered the following interesting tale: it was Greek immigrants who entered the marine and wharf labour avenues and introduced barramundi fish into the Australian market.

It came at a time when many Greek immigrants were plying their fishing kills in the waters around Australia, including forging links with the indigenous community who had long eaten this native fish.

“Barramundi fish was a main food source for Australia’s first peoples but at the time, Anglo Australians were far from interested in consuming it due to its muddy taste and difficulty to catch,” Neo Kosmos notes.

“For the Greeks, however, barramundi is just a seabass variation and super close to a fish extremely popular in the Greek cuisine, the platypsaro.”

After World War II economic opportunity beckoned and it was a Greek family who first sold barramundi to the southern market and ultimately ensured it was on the plates of athletes at the 1956 Olympics.

A love affair with barramundi began and it’s diminished little in the years that followed.

Contemporary seafood

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill continues this passion for seafood at our waterfront restaurant in Darling Harbour. We showcase some of Australia’s finest sea fare, using traditional Greek cooking techniques to highlight the fresh flavours on offer. Whether you seek prawns, baby snapper, or octopus, our love of seafood is yours to share.

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is located on Kings Wharf at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Feel free to peruse our menu, discover our seafood or contact us to make a booking.

 

Spring dining on the menu

Posted on August 31, 2017 by - News & Reviews

The harbour twinkles just that little bit brighter, the sun lingers just that little bit longer as Sydney readies to embrace the vibrant renewal that is spring.

As we exit the cold of winter, Sydney comes to life with outdoor dining, evening drinks, and long Sunday lunches all par for the springtime course.

But in case you needed any further prompting to cast off the woes of winter and hit the town this spring, here are five reasons spring dining should be on your menu.

Fresh produce

Spring brings a bevy of fresh produce availability and a retake on many a menu as chefs capitalise on a whole season of new produce at hand.

Light, fresh and healthy are the order of any spring day, with meals best enjoyed amongst friends in the great outdoors.

Think crisp white wines accompanied by mezze as the ever- lengthening spring afternoons beckon Sydneysiders into the great outdoors.

Fresh air

Spring sees Sydney reinvigorated. There’s a fresh scent in the air, extra colour in the gardens and the whole city takes on a more vibrant hue. And as the days stretch on just that little bit longer, it’s prime time for the population to cast off the grey of winter and embrace all the activities on offer.

Spring finds the harbour more appealing, the evening lights just a little bit brighter and the warmer evenings provide the perfect opportunity for some languid meals al fresco style.

Fresh outings

This is perhaps the best time of year to enjoy this outdoor-loving city, with the opportunity to revisit old haunts and discover new destinations. Spring is the season of festivals, weddings and events, best enjoyed before the heat of summer takes a hold.

Gone are the winds of August, gone are the grey days of July, instead Sydney serves up week after almost endless week of temperate sunshine with only the hint of a nip in the air.

It’s the ideal time of year for long Sunday lunches, Saturday morning brunches, and workplace meetings over fine fare.

Sumptuous seafood

As the days get brighter, the food of choice becomes lighter with seafood among the ideal menu items to be relished in the renewed warmth.

This is one of the best times of year for seafood and sees a bounty of delights like crab, bugs, abalone, pawns, oysters, squid and a plethora of fish all in season and ready supply.

Long sunsets

As the days get steadily longer, spring represents the perfect opportunity to settle in and watch the sunset over the harbour, with some nibbles and a glass of champagne in hand. Outdoor evening dining is just that much more appealing in the warmth of a springtime evening, with the promise of summer ahead and Christmas yet to come.

About Georges

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the family hospitality and harbourside as we embrace the spring beauty of Sydney in simply stunning surrounds.

 

 

5 reasons to head out for breakfast in Sydney this weekend

Posted on July 30, 2017 by - News & Reviews

A lazy Saturday morning enjoying a languid breakfast by Australia’s most beautiful Harbour…who needs a further excuse to venture out for a morning repast this weekend?

But just in case some gentle arm twisting is required, here are the five best reasons to head out for breakfast in Sydney this weekend…

1)      You’ve earned it

After a long hard week of work, family commitments, and meeting a rigorous schedule, you’ve earned the right to enjoy a little down time. A sunny weekend morning sees Sydney at its best – shimmering harbour, less traffic, and the lighthearted ambience only a day off can bring.

So surely it’s time to treat yourself. Rise and shine to great service and sumptuous delights like eggs Benedict or pancakes, with a delicious side of the delectable, always delightful Darling Harbour views.

2)      Start the day on the right note

You know what they say about breakfast, it should be eaten like a king. A leisurely, satiating breakfast is the best way to start your day of relaxation on exactly the right note. We’re thinking yoghurt smoothies, omelettes…need we say more?

3)      Breakfast tastes best when served in style

It’s a simple fact of life, food always tastes better when you don’t have to put in the hard yards and prepare it yourself. Pull up a chair, whip out the paper, kick back and relax, we’ll take care of the rest.

Combine a fresh cooked breakfast with waterside views, and you simply can’t go wrong. Throw in some warm hospitality, great service, and solid style, and all the ingredients for the perfect meal are swiftly catered to.

4)      Socialising ticked off… it’s not even lunchtime

We know how weekends work, it’s the time to catch up with family and friends while factoring in a little R&R, catching up on domestic chores, and pulling off obligatory exercise on the side. But why not tick off a few items on the weekend to-do list in one succulent swoop?

Grab the friends and family, book in a bountiful breakfast and, voila – rest, relaxation and socialising taken care of! Take a stroll around Darling Harbour, and that’s exercise dealt with too.

5)      The view, did we mention the view?

Just the smell of the salty air and the bright sparkle of the harbour is enough to work up an appetite. Why not sit back, relax and watch the passing parade as you soak up the Sydney ambience over a gourmet bacon and egg roll?

Then with your stomach satiated and the relaxed vibe kicking in, kick back a little further and take in that view.

Breakfast is served!

Georges Mediterranean Bar and Grill is now serving breakfast every weekend and public holiday. We’ve devised the ultimate menu of brekkie delights including eggs Benedict served two ways, pancakes with maple syrup, omelettes, yoghurt smoothies, and so much more…

You can see our breakfast options here or book a table and join us at Darling Harbour to start your weekend in style.

About Georges

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share a relaxed morning meal as we serve up the breakfast of champions in simply stunning surrounds.

15 Greek terms every food lover should know

Posted on June 30, 2017 by - News & Reviews

As the popularity of Mediterranean cuisine has made its steady march across the globe, many Greek terms, ingredients and dishes have made their way into the common lexicon. But every now and then there’s a word on the menu to stump even the most ardent of food fans.

Here are 15 terms to know when perusing a traditional Greek menu…

Bougatsa

Traditionally a breakfast pastry, bougatsa varies from sweet to savoury across Greece. Put simply it is a filo pastry filled with ingredients such as semolina custard.

Horiatiki

This traditional Greek salad is made of any variety of readily available ingredients such as capsicum, onion, olives, feta, capers and cucumber and tomato, seasoned with salt, pepper, oregano and drizzled with olive oil. Fondly regarded as a country village or peasant salad it is made from whatever seasonal produce a farmer had at hand, with the noticeable absence of lettuce in its traditional form.

Kataifi

The mouth waters at mention of this word. Kataifi is a sweet dessert made of shredded filo pastry of the same name soaked in a sweet syrup, with honey and nuts.

Spanakopita

Loosely translated to spinach pie, this is a traditional Greek dish made of feta, snitch and filo pastry.

Kefta

Shortened from the sarkeftes, which basically translates into chopped meat, kefta is a meatball-like dish made from minced lamb, beef, chicken, pork. It can be served on skewers or in sauce and may also be known a kofta.

Loukomades

Fried balls of sweet dough coated with honey and cinnamon.

Marida

A little fish, lightly fried and served whole.

Meats

Wondering about that hero of your potential dish? Well arni means lamb, brizola is steak, and kotopoulo is chicken. 

Melitzanosalata

A flavourful Greek eggplant dip.

Meza, mezze, mezes, mezedes

A series of small dishes enjoyed as a shared meal or at the commencement of a meal. 

Pikilia

Translating into “variety” pikilia refers to a selection of appetisers.

Saganaki

Saganaki refers to any series of small dishes prepared with a small frying pan called a sagani. Therefore saganaki squid is squid fried in this small pan. Saganaki is most commonly associated with an appetiser of fried cheese.

Souvlaki

We realise you’re probably familiar with this one but souvlaki is derived from the Ancient Greek word souvla, or skewer. Known as souvlaki in northern Greece, and commonly referred to as kalamaki in southern Greece, it describes small pieces of meat and vegetables grilled on a skewer, which may also be served in pita bread accompanied by sauces.

Tzatziki

This word too has made the common lexicon, but is a strained yoghurt with cucumbers and garlic.

Yemista

Translating to “stuffed with”, yemista generally refers to a series of vegetables and fruits like tomato, eggplant, and zucchini stuffed with a flavoursome filling.

About George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill we proudly share our Greek heritage within a modern Australian environment at our waterslide Darling Harbour location.

You can further peruse our menu, or make a booking here to indulge in some of Sydney’s finest Greek fare. Oh and Kali orexi or “Bon appétit!”