Family-owned Greek restaurant has been named the best BYO in Auckland. The Campbells Bay local, El Greco, has officially been crowned Auckland’s best BYO for 2022, beating out the 11 other restaurants shortlisted to win the title and a $5,000 small business support package.
The North Shore eatery, owned and operated by husband-and-wife Kostas and Sarah Grigorakis, received the most public votes and scored highly with the judges, impressing with its Greek-Italian menu, relaxed atmosphere and exceptional service.
The inaugural awards, run by Leftfield wines and Facebook food forum Lazy Susan, were created to shine a light on the often-overlooked spots that bring so much vibrancy to Tamaki Makaurau.
Sarah says the entire El Greco team is incredibly humbled by the accolade and that it’s a welcome boost after the challenges for hospitality venues of late.
“We’re elated and would like to make special thanks to all those who have voted for us, not least to our valued customers. It means so much to us to win and we can’t wait to bring our little piece of the Mediterranean to you all!” she says.
“In the end, however, one winner had to be crowned and our experience at El Greco matched the public sentiment. At the risk of calling on a cliché, this haven of Greek and wider Mediterranean cuisine is a hidden gem. Tucked away right near the beach at Campbells Bay, it feels a little like a holiday in a meal – we say cheers to that!” says Anna.
After several years of successfully slinging delicious fare, El Greco has become a local favourite renowned for its meze platters, pizzas, pasta, gyros and the colourful characters who know neighbourhood residents by name.
“We’re thrilled to be able to help put these diverse and delicious restaurants on the map and look forward to visiting each and every one as soon as possible.”
The other finalists for the 2022 Auckland’s best BYO awards were: Bali Nights (Grey Lynn), Big Fish Eatery (Penrose), Bunga Raya Restaurant (New Lynn), Canton Café (Kingsland), Faro (Auckland CBD), Golden Jade (Epsom), Nishiki (Freeman’s Bay), Satya (Grey Lynn), Sri Pinang (Kārangahape Road), Tianze Dumpling House (Sandringham) and Try it Out Restaurant (Ōtāhuhu).
