By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
No passport? No problem. After winning over the hearts (and stomachs) of the Northern Beaches with its signature blend of smoky souvlaki, seaside charm and Greek island hospitality, cult-Aegean-inspired favourite Kazzi Beach Greek has set its sights on Sydney’s east - officially opening its third location by way of a brand new taverna in Bondi Beach.
Nestled along the buzzing Hall and O’Brien Street dining strip, the new Kazzi brings the best of a Greek island escape to one of Australia’s most iconic coastal hotspots. Just don’t ever admit that to its neighbours north of the bridge.
For fans of the brand’s Balmoral and Manly locations, the formula will feel comfortingly familiar: the spirit of Greek hospitality, dishes steeped in Mediterranean diet tradition and interiors that channel the effortless, breezy charm of an island getaway.
However, in true Kazzi fashion, the experience has been tailored to suit Bondi’s signature blend of beach cool and cultural energy. Don’t panic, you’ll still find that octopus on the menu!
Founder Peter Papas says opening in Bondi was a natural next step for the brand: "Bondi locals and visitors alike value fresh, high-quality food in a relaxed setting. Precisely what Kazzi Beach Greek is all about,” he says. "It’s not just a meal. It’s a visit to a Greek island in Sydney.”
Walking into the new venue is like stepping into a Summer in Samos. Expect whitewashed textures, bursts of Aegean blue, relaxed alfresco seating and a buzzing taverna vibe that practically screams Opa!
The menu leans into Kazzi’s greatest hits, starting with that famous island-recipe octopus, slow-cooked and flame-grilled to tender, smoky perfection. It’s been hailed as one of Sydney’s best - and for good reason.
Alongside it, you’ll find generously stacked meat platters, filled with lamb, pork, chicken or fish, as well as vibrant wraps perfect for a beachside bite on the go.
Because no Greek meal is complete without a little something sweet, you’ll want to leave room for baklava, shortbread and the ultimate indulgence: galaktobouriko - a silky semolina custard wrapped in flaky filo pastry and drenched in rose-scented syrup.
More than just the food, though, what makes Kazzi Beach Greek special is the way it captures the true spirit of Greek hospitality - that feeling of being welcomed in like family, the table slowly filling with plate after plate, laughter bouncing off the walls, glasses clinking and the kind of service that’s as warm as the souvlaki.
It’s a philosophy rooted in the Greek concept of philotimo - the selfless joy of honouring guests with generosity, kindness and heart. With more than 55 new jobs created by the Bondi opening, that heart is already being felt far beyond the kitchen.
"We’re proud of our growth and what it allows us to offer the community,” Peter says. "More than anything, we’re passionate about sharing the essence of the Greek Islands - food, fun, connection and friendship - with more of Sydney.”
So, whether you’re fresh off the sand with salty hair and flip-flops, or dressed up for a long lunch by the sea, Kazzi Beach Greek’s new Bondi location is ready to transport you - one souvlaki at a time.
No passport needed. Just an appetite.
