Bahari

Bahari offers a diverse culinary trip for those wanting to explore Greek cuisine in Melbourne. The menu takes you through an array of the island’s traditional cuisine using time honoured techniques and flavours - all with a fresh, funky and 'gringlish' (Greek/English) vibe.

Owners , Chef and Restaurateur Philip Vakos and friend Stell Kaponas have created a home away from home where patrons enjoy generous Greek hospitality as members of the Bahari family.
 
Philip (who you might remember from series 2 Master Chef)  grew up spending hours in the kitchen with two Cretan grandmothers, who taught him the fine art of balancing spice in Greek food. Bahari is his latest venture and showcases Philip's interpretations of classic Greek dishes and desserts, alongside his flare for balancing spices and flavours. 
 
Stell on the other hand is a seasoned business owner with multiple operations in Tasmania, bringing to Bahari an uncompromising standard of quality. 

Our feast began with an array of delicious starters. Our favourite starter, the stuffed zucchini flowers with garlic prawns were excellent.  The batter encasing the zucchini flowers was ethereally light and crisp while the stuffing was rich and flavoursome. 

An absolute showstopper was the dish of Octopus. The octopus was incredibly tender while retaining a robust structure courtesy of being expertly cooked. Having been chargrilled with ouzo, lemon, oregano and EVOO it delivered a luxurious salinity and balanced tartness which further enhanced the flavours of the octopus.

The crescendo of the savoury courses was the moorish slow roasted shoulder of lamb cooked with lemon, rosemary and garlic. The roasting juices from the intensely flavoured, succulent lamb coated each mouth-watering morsels – it was comfort food at its best. We recommend having this hearty dish with a couple of salads which serve as refreshing accompaniments.  

Our dinner concluded on a decadently sweet end with a duo of desserts. The Galatoboureko was traditional and heart-warming while the Halva ice cream was a superbly made and absolutely moreish.  

Bahari pleases with bold flavours paired with meticulously prepared dishes. 

Location: 179 Swan Street, Richmond
Phone: 03 8658 3443
Richmond: http://www.bahari-richmond.com.au
Cuisine: Greek