Emilia reviews a standout inner Melbourne Greek restaurant

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Nestled in the vibrant suburb of Yarraville, Tzaki has quickly become a standout in Melbourne’s dining scene. And I ended up there by accident, a wrong turn onto the Westgate Fwy meant I ended up in Yarraville with 5km left of petrol, 5% left on my phone and an empty stomach, lucky I did, because what I found in Yarraville was simply magical. This Athenian-inspired mezze bar, which opened its doors less than 6 months ago, offers a unique blend of fine dining and homestyle Greek cuisine that has captivated locals and food enthusiasts alike.

The restaurant’s name, meaning “fireplace” in Greek, is aptly chosen for its centerpiece: a blazing hearth where chef-owner Alex Xinis works his culinary magic. The intimate space, seating only 15 diners inside, creates a cozy atmosphere that encourages interaction. As I discovered during my visit, the clever setup of the bar area, with everyone facing the charcoal grill, fosters a sense of community and shared experience.

Tzaki’s menu is a testament to thoughtful curation and seasonal inspiration. The psomi (flatbread) is an excellent starting point, especially when paired with the optional red pepper and feta butter – a combination that elevates a simple dish to something extraordinary. The octopus, a dish I particularly enjoyed, is beautifully charred over the wood fire, resulting in a perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness.

One standout dish that garnered much praise from locals sat around the bar, gushing over the food I must try, was the revithia, a brothy mix of chickpeas and carrots inspired by Athens’ Diporto. The chickpeas are cooked overnight in rich vegetable stock, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful dish. I also enjoyed a creative spanakopita, with a crispy pastry and a side of creamy, zesty lemon sauce. Like the cheesecake, I shared it with the bar, adding to the night’s convivial spirit.

What sets Tzaki apart is not just its food but the overall dining experience. During my visit, I witnessed the bartender crafting a special non-alcoholic drink made with a rare syrup from northern Greece, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors and innovative offerings.

The interactive and convivial atmosphere encouraged me to engage with fellow diners, turning what could have been a solitary meal into an evening of shared joy and culinary exploration. This spirit of communal dining is evident in dishes like the Greek-style sashimi and the crispy chicken, which I happily shared with others at the bar. The chicken was another highlight, with a crispy salted exterior giving way to incredibly juicy meat.

No meal at Tzaki is complete without trying their famous baked feta cheesecake. This dessert has quickly become a local favorite, with a unique twist on the traditional cheesecake that perfectly balances the salty-sour tang of sheep’s cheese with a hint of lime zest.

Overall, Tzaki offers an unforgettable experience, whether you’re seeking a great night out or just want to try exceptional food. My advice is to arrive early, as the locals already know about it, and it fills up quickly. After only being open for 5 months, it won’t stay a hidden gem long. With rumors of a new charcoal chicken spot opening soon, I’m eager to see what the owners have in store next. The restaurant’s success lies in its ability to blend traditional Greek flavors with modern techniques, all centered around the wood-fired oven that gives each dish its distinctive character.

Tzaki

31 Ballarat St

Yarraville