Modern Greek eatery GRK opened its doors in Sandton, Johannesburg in early July 2022, launching their menu with an exciting modern twist on classic Greek street food, with the introduction of an innovative gyro menu.
A classic gyro is usually made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served wrapped or stuffed in pita bread. The owners saw an opportunity to make the gyro the star of the show, however via the “new method” of cooking the meat. A method which was encountered by the owners in Greece five years ago.
The new method offers a product that is fresher and safer utilising only top-quality meat prepared and grilled on flat grills onsite. The meat is thinly sliced and then cut on open kitchen butcher blocks with custom made half-moon knives, unique to GRK. Although a different take on the traditional gyro, there is no compromise on that punchy gyro flavour. This method of cooking is cleaner and more sanitary offering discerning diners great tasting food, in a modern, upmarket, yet casual setting.
Pork, beef, lamb, chicken and kofta gyro is offered, all served in traditional pita. The pitas, which are imported directly from Greece, contain no added sugar and are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and come in four variations; village (choriatiki), wholegrain, carob and corn, each containing their own nutritional values. Furthermore, for vegetarians and vegans; falafel, traditional halloumi and mushroom options are offered, which are equally as delicious as the meat options. All gyros come with a variety of dips, which have been specially adjusted to South African palates, making it more relevant. Dips include classic options such as Tzatziki (garlic, herbed or avocado) and hummus but also less traditional flavours such as yoghurt mustard and babaganoush. Added to this simple menu, is a variety of salads which are all freshly prepared with top quality produce, displayed in GRK’s fruit and vegetable feature display fridge, situated within the open kitchen.
The eatery, which is owned by Greek natives, displays a fresh clean look with interiors designed by Giorgio Tatsakis of Atelier Giorgio, featuring ebony timber, a neutral palette, and clean geometric lines.
Inspired by, and paying reference to Greek art forms, the intention of the space was to steer away from the traditional ‘blue and white’ aesthetic that one generally sees and associates with a Greek restaurant, and modernize it, just like the food. – comments Giorgio.
The contemporary setting of GRK is largely made up of custom coloured Herringbone Wolkberg tiles, which appear on both the floor and walls, mirroring the geometric wooden detail that stretches across the ceiling above, as well as an upholstery print which is a modern take on a Greek mosaic. Inspired by Greek art forms, a focal point is the organic shaped bar counter detail and the symmetrical, modular wall panel placed perfectly at the back of the arched seating booths.
Besides gyro, GRK also specialise in Vaflaki (freshly baked mini waffles imported from Greece), homemade Italian gelato (using imported products), as well as authentic ready-made meals which are personally prepared by their in-house team of Greek chefs, ready for you to grab-on-the-go or enjoy at the eatery.
For authentic yet elevated Greek street food which you can enjoy at the eatery or at home via their deli options, look no further than GRK.
GRK is situated at Shop 5, Rivonia Village Shopping Centre, Corner Rivonia Boulevard and Mutual Road, Rivonia in Sandton.
- To make an order or for more information call 010 534 7672 or head to www.grk.restaurant.
