Greek restaurant El Greco named the best BYO in Auckland

Sarah said the team is humbled by the accolade, and is grateful for the welcome boost following the financial challenges the hospitality industry has faced throughout the pandemic.

“As with a lot of hospitality venues, it’s been quite a challenging time. It is perfect timing to receive such a welcome boost. We’ll be using the money to invest in training our staff and upgrading some of our systems,” Sarah said.

“We didn’t know that we had even been put forward before we learned that we were finalists. It was really exciting to find out we’d won. We’re elated… It means so much to us and we can’t wait to bring our little piece of the Mediterranean to you all.”

Anna King Shahab, a judge and the co-founder of Lazy Susan, acknowledged that while picking one winner was incredibly difficult, the panel couldn’t look past El Greco’s colourful characters, delicious Mediterranean menu and beachside location.

“Our experience at El Greco matched the public sentiment. At 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,” Shahab said. 

“El Greco made a wonderful impression with its warm, attentive and clued-up service. Its vibrantly presented and flavoursome food was served in generous portions, and it generally exuded a feeling of heartfelt hospitality.

“El Greco stood out as a great example of a BYO restaurant on every level – a place we’d rush back to and do it all again.”