Yiayias opens in Winchester becoming the city's only Greek restaurant

Yiayias Greek and Cypriot kitchen opened its doors to the public on Tuesday, December 6, becoming the first restaurant of its kind in the city.

The award-winning business, first established at The Fox pub in Farnham back in 2018, was due to open in November but experienced technical delays with completing the refurbishment.

Located at 56 St George’s Street, Greek Cypriot cuisine including flatbreads, kebabs, small plates, platters, seafood, salads and skewers is now being served from midday seven days a week.

The name Yiayias is taken from the Greek word for Grandma’s, representing where owner Paul Pyrgoudes found his inspiration for cooking.

Manager Marko Spasic said: “To finally open is a great feeling. We’re delighted to be here and bring new tastes into the city. All the food is freshly made on site and we’re sure there’s a gap in Winchester for Yiayias.”

The restaurant is set to have up to 10 staff members and is currently considering applications. Despite, the cost-of-living crisis manager Marko remains unfazed and said that prices will be kept “popular” for the Winchester market.

READ MORE: Yiayias Kitchen opens in Winchester in unit formerly occupied by Tom's Deli as owner Tom retires

Mr Pyrgoudes bought the premises in March when Tom Romita was looking to retire after running Tom’s Deli in St George’s Street for more than 30 years.

The manager said: “We’re very excited to be taking over from Tom. We’ve heard loads of great stories. What we’re bringing in a way is similar to Tom but at the same time very different.”

Yiayias Kitchen is open Monday to Thursday 12-9pm, Friday to Saturday 12-10pm Saturday and with reduced hours on Sundays.

For more go to yiayias.co.uk/winchester/.