A Greek Odyssey

Serving up a host of heart-warming flavours with unbeatable Mediterranean hospitality, Kolonaki is a piece of Hellenic heaven in Johannesburg

- Lisa Witepski

Parkhurst’s trendy 4th Avenue, also known as “the strip”, is the go-to spot for epicurean occasions, from ladies’ lunches to date nights. And since October last year, there’s been a new reason to visit: Kolonaki Greek Kouzina!

With a bamboo canopy that hangs over a white-washed deck, a fringe of greenery adding to the aura of freshness, the restaurant’s frontage instantly sets it apart from its neighbouring bistros and bars. During the day, the bamboo casts tiger-stripe shadows over the Mykonos benches, and at night, fairy lights twinkle festively – all that’s missing is a light sea breeze!

It’s no wonder curious patrons have been flocking to the restaurant to find out what delights might be dished up inside. “We’ve been fully booked since we first opened late last year,” says owner, Vassilios Holiasmenos.

This is a dream come true, especially since Vassilios has been focusing on little besides Kolonaki for a year and a half before opening it. Born into the restaurant equivalent of royalty – his father, Theo, was the brains behind iconic brands like MacRib, Ciao Baby Cucina, and Smith & Wollensky – Vassilios has been part of the business since he was 13, working in the scullery to earn some pocket money, before honing his skills in different areas of the kitchen.

Vassilios formalised his learnings with a degree in hospitality in the United Kingdom, and owned a few restaurants in London, including Ciao Baby Cucina, before returning to South Africa 10 years ago.