“Institution” is a word thrown freely about in the food industry but with 39 years and 10 million souvlakis behind them, Melbourne’s Stalactites has rightfully earned the moniker.
Servicing the hungry folk of Melbourne seven days a week, 24 hours a day, Stalactites champion the Melbourne-style Greek souvlaki, which more commonly features lamb rather than the more readily available pork.
Now, the Stalactites family has announced they’re branching out and offering a faster quick service store: at 7 Elizabeth Street.
“The key to our business has always been about being a family that connects to our customers and listens to what they want,” says third generation Nicole Papasavas, who’s watched her grandparents and parents run the business and now manages Stalactites and Hella Good. “We have always tried to change and adapt our offering but still maintain the pillars of traditional Greek cooking and flavours: fresh produce, local ingredients (apart from Greek olive oil, oregano and cheese) and supporting Australian farmers and businesses before it became trendy to do so.”
Hella Good champions Melbourne-style Greek souvlaki, which more commonly features lamb rather pork. Source: Hella Good
At Hella Good, folks can still expect the same generous handheld Greek feast, but it’s more a one-handed rather than two-handed grip that’s needed. Choose from the Arnie (marinated lamb, sliced fresh from the spit), Kotter (spit-roasted chicken), Harvey (lamb and chicken) and the vegetarian Terry. All souvlaki are rolled in fresh pita with lettuce, tomato, onion and homemade tzatziki with snackpacks and dips as added extras. Baklava fingers and rice pudding are on hand to help round out the meal.
Hella Good may not be open 24 hours like its big sister but it comes dangerously close, trading until midnight during the week and until 5am on weekends. So Melbourne folk can rest-assured there's a place to sate their souvlaki hankering most hours of the day.
Wraps, dips and desserts are all made in house using local or Greek ingredients. Source: Hella Good
7 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
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