While the land Down Under boasts an array of exceptional Greek eateries, from charming tavernas to delightful street food stalls, Geelong emerges as the crown jewel for those seeking an authentic Greek dining experience, thanks to Mavs Greek Restaurant.
Mavs Greek Restaurant, the culinary gem of Geelong, has once again clinched the title of the best Greek restaurant in Victoria and Tasmania, marking its second consecutive win.
This Greek haven stole the spotlight at the prestigious 2023 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence for Victoria & Tasmania, cementing its reputation as the go-to destination for Greek gastronomy in the region.
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Derived from the owner’s family name, Mavromoustakos, meaning ‘black moustache,’ Milton Mavromoustakos and his wife Julia Ryabova have transformed Mavs into a beloved regional treasure over the past six years. Nestled in Geelong’s trendy West End precinct on Little Malop Street, Mavs exudes an infectious, anything-goes spirit, winning the hearts of locals and visitors alike with their indulgent Mediterranean spread.
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Now, Mavs has ascended to Greek culinary royalty at this year’s Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence.
This annual event is a celebration of Australia’s vibrant culinary landscape, where restaurants, cafes, and caterers are bestowed well-deserved recognition for their exceptional food and exemplary service.
These establishments are scrutinised on every facet of the dining experience, encompassing food quality, beverage offerings, service standards, and the overall presentation of the establishment. The culinary connoisseurs of restaurants and caterers alike await this prestigious event with bated breath, gathering to applaud their peers and witness the unveiling of the industry’s crème de la crème. This year, the grand announcement took place at the chic Zinc at Fed Square in Melbourne on September 18, 2023.
Mavs Greek Restaurant, offering a culinary voyage through the Mediterranean without the need for airfare, secured not one, but two illustrious awards. In addition to reclaiming the title of Best Greek Restaurant for the second consecutive year, Mavs also earned the esteemed Best Family Dining award.
Milton, hailing from Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, shared his elation, saying, “Mavs took out state excellence awards in two categories – Best Greek restaurant (second year running) and Best Family Dining – at the Gala night held by Restaurant and Catering Association at Zinc on Federation Square.
“Last year Mavs was awarded Best Greek Restaurant VIC and TAS and later received a Bronze National Award!
“It’s a great recognition for us and our team and a good motivation to keep up good work.”
“Mavs is our first and biggest venture. It was quite scary in the beginning as no other Greek restaurant had succeeded in Geelong before. But now we pride ourselves of being the best in the state for two consecutive years. Mavs family has extended now and includes Souva Bar in Grovedale and LoukouMadness Greek desserts on Little Malop st with another Souva Bar and restaurant coming to Drysdale soon.”
With a deep-rooted commitment to classic Greek fare, prepared with the utmost dedication to premium ingredients and meticulous attention to detail, Mavs beckons patrons with its impressive menu.
Here you’ll find a medley of small plates ideal for sharing, alongside heartier fare. Each dish is crafted from locally sourced, homemade ingredients, ensuring an authentic and scrumptious Greek street food experience. From the meticulous marination of meats to the use of only the finest ingredients, Mavs stands as an epitome of culinary expertise in Geelong.
Hero dishes include Spanakopita, Saganaki seafood, Lamb Gyros, Mousaka, Biftekia, meat and seafood platters and the irresistible Loukoumades while new menu items like Chargrilled Pork Rib Eye served with chips, tzatziki, village salad and pita bread is fast becoming new people’s favourite.
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If the awards prove anything, it’s that Mavs’ combination of uncomplicated yet perfectly executed Greek fare, an enticing beverage selection, an inviting ambience, and warm, efficient service is a winning recipe for success.
A visit to Mavs Greek Restaurant is bound to make you consider adopting a permanent Mediterranean diet. So, the next time those hunger pangs strike or you’re in search of an indulgent night out, make sure to place this culinary treasure at the top of your must-visit list.
Mavs Greek Restaurant is located at 73A Little Malop St, Geelong. To discover more about this Greek culinary haven, visit their website.
