Mavs win prestigious state title for authentic Greek cuisine

THE owners of Geelong’s Mavs Greek Restaurant say they are still trying to comprehend winning two major categories at the 2023 Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) Hostplus Awards for Excellence.

The Little Malop Street establishment secured the Family Dining – VIC & TAS title and received the best Greek Restaurant VIC & TAS award for a second year running at Monday evening’s gala event in Melbourne.

Mavs Greek Restaurant pride themselves on serving fresh, homemade Greek cuisine with a combination of smaller dishes designed to share over a wine or delicious cocktail.

Some of the venue’s signature dishes include charcoal octopus, moussaka, saganaki and gyros.

Restaurant owner Milton Mavromoustakos said he and his wife Julia were thrilled to win again at the awards.

“We are very happy and it’s a really great achievement for us. We are still understanding it all!

“We have a lot of passion for what we do. It’s never been about putting money in front of service for us.

“We are passionate about promoting Greek culture and cuisine in Geelong and are very privileged to be doing it.

“By being the only Greek restaurant in Geelong, we feel as if we are somewhat representing the country.

“We do our best to be dedicated, keep our standards high and make people feel like they are at home.”

Restaurant and Catering (R&CA) chief executive officer Suresh Manickam congratulated Mavs Greek Restaurant and each of the winners for their significant contributions to the Victorian and Tasmanian hospitality sector.

“We are extremely appreciative of the enthusiasm and support shown for the industry tonight.

“Both Victoria and Tasmania have an exceptional reputation for a high level of culinary excellence, and we are proud to formally recognise each state’s very best.”

“The restaurant and catering sector have shown an immense amount of resilience over the past few years, and we are honoured to host a night that recognises the outstanding efforts of hospitality operators who have excelled in each of their respective categories.”

Other local award winners included Higher Mark at GMHBA Stadium (Venue Caterer) and Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues (One Music Excellence Award).

The Australia Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) Hostplus Awards for Excellence formally recognised hospitality operators who consistently provide exceptional service and demonstrate culinary excellence in their respective fields.

You can read a full list of Victoria and Tasmania award winners at www.rca.asn.au