By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Sydney’s inner west is about to witness a culinary collision of epic proportions. On Thursday, October 23, the Nag’s Head Hotel will host a one-night-only feast as George Calombaris and Nelly Robinson join forces for Winston & Mates, the Chef-collab series that’s quickly become the city’s go-to for inventive, playful fine dining with a pub twist.
Winston & Mates has always been about bringing friends and peers into Nelly’s kitchen, letting industry legends cook side by side and diners witness the magic unfold. This time, it’s Greek soul meets British flair. With George’s mastery of heritage-driven dishes perfectly complementing Nelly’s playful, precise technique, it’s the kind of collaboration you’d never see anywhere else - a true culinary duet that promises surprises and bold flavours in equal measure.
Guests can expect an eight-course menu designed to wow from start to finish. Highlights include prawn saganaki with a punchy tomato and feta sauce, pressed coat with beans, tomatoes, potatoes and lemon that balances richness with bright acidity, a Greek yoghurt soft serve drizzled with passionfruit extra virgin olive oil and loukoumades served alongside apple honey cream and cinnamon – the kind of sweet, sticky perfection that Yia Yia would say yes to.
Set on the mezzanine of the newly renovated Nag’s Head, Winston’s is a cosy but sophisticated gastropub that blends traditional pub fare with elevated, fine-dining sensibilities. With just enough room for diners to feel part of the action, it’s an intimate stage for the two Chefs to showcase not only their culinary prowess but the camaraderie and mutual admiration that’s rare to see behind stoves.
At $160 per person, the evening offers eight courses of refined, inventive dishes, each course alternating between Nelly and George. Think of it as a tasting menu crossed with a masterclass, a rare chance to experience two iconic Chefs in one kitchen, one night only.
Nelly, who has spent more than two decades refining his craft in the UK and Australia, says: "We’ve admired each other’s work for years but haven’t had the chance to get behind the stoves together. George’s food celebrates heritage and heart and this menu lets us weave that Greek soul into my own playful style. Guests can expect a night of big flavours and a few surprises.”
Tickets are limited and expected to sell fast, so if you’ve ever wanted to see what happens when Greek passion meets British precision – all served with a side of inner-west charm – now’s your chance. Bring your appetite, an open mind and maybe a friend who appreciates good mischief in the kitchen.
Winston & Mates: Nelly Robinson x George Calombaris Date:
Thursday, October 23, from 6 pm. Price: $160 per person for an 8-course menu.
Location: Mezzanine, Nag’s Head Hotel, Glebe.
Bookings: www.bookings.nowbookit.com
