Yasou to Brisbane's latest resident

Modern taverna Greca has finally opened its doors in Brisbane’s lauded Howard Smith Wharves precinct. The highly anticipated eatery is the first Queensland outlet for Gold Coast-born Sydney-based chef Jonathan Barthelmess, the man behind Apollo and Cho Cho San in Potts Point.

But this isn't your standard Greek restaurant

Brisbane already has plenty of those, as well of one the country’s most active Greek clubs. Instead restaurateur Barthelmess has offered a modern take on the taverna, focusing on great food and great fun. Much like Sydney sister Apollo, the restaurant is focused around communal eating and ‘pays homage to Mediterranean generosity’ by offering an authentic village feel on the Brisbane riverfront.

It certainly looks good

Thanks to the efforts of Barthelmess’ longtime collaborator (and childhood friend) George Livissianis who has crafted a hybrid between the traditional concept of a taverna, and the heritage warehouse in which the restaurant sits. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating aplenty (to lap up the Queensland sunshine), as well as plenty of Livissianis trademarks; polished concrete floors, simple furnishings and a crisp, white colour palette.

The menu follows the same mantra

Modern but Greek is evident in both the restaurant’s design and edible offerings. Queensland has also had a strong influence over Greca’s menu, which celebrates local produce including a plethora of seafood. Think generous bowls of mussels and pipis, whole spiced prawns , platters of organic braised vegetables, house-made dolmades and aromatic lamb skewers. Where possible, food is cooked over wood and fire or the stone built-oven which sits front and centre in the open kitchen.

For those concerned

Apollo fans need not fear for a number of the Sydney outlet’s favourites will be making their way to the sister venue’s menu. Yes there will be the wild weed pie, the taramasalata, and the baked lamb shoulder present. And perhaps most excitingly, the famed saganaki cheese has also ventured up north.

It's the best of both worlds

Or so says Barthelmess, who believes Greca is the perfect merging of Mediterranean and Queensland. “We’ve spent a lot of time finessing the menu for GRECA to bring the best of the Mediterranean to the north,” he explains. “With a strong focus on local producers and fresh seafood, we’re looking forward to bringing the GRECA flavour and personality to the Howard Smith Wharves precinct.”

And to drink?

Yes there’s plenty of boozy options too. Greca’s wine list is largely Mediterranean with a range to suit every budget and palate for that matter. Cocktail fans will also find a friend in the lengthy drinks list, which favours tipples suited to the Queensland outdoor lifestyle.