Stalactites & Souvlakis: Greek Delights in Melbourne CBD
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, family-owned Stalactites Restaurant is a Greek dining gem that promises an authentic taste of Greece right here in Australia.
As the only Greek restaurant in Australia to have Coeliac Australia Accreditation, gluten-free diners are well looked after (my mother-in-law included).
If you’re looking for a top-notch Greek restaurant in Melbourne, try Stalactites for fresh meals made with authentic homemade recipes. Opa!
Related post: Best Gluten-Free Melbourne CBD Lunch Spots 2024
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits and accessibility advice for Stalactites Restaurant
Greek Restaurant Stalactites Melbourne
Founded in 1978 by the Konstantinos family, Stalactites has been serving up authentic Greek dishes for over four decades! Back then it quickly became a loved gathering place for Greek migrants in Melbourne.
From humble beginnings as a small eatery on Lonsdale Street, the restaurant has grown into a beloved institution, cherished by locals and tourists for its warm hospitality and mouthwatering fare.
Today, the tradition lives on as the restaurant is run by the second generation of the Konstantinos family, who remain committed to preserving the legacy of their parents and sharing the flavours of Greece with the world.
The intricate stalactite ceiling was handmade by the family in the 70s, inspired by the Caves of Diros in Greece.
Authentic Greek Cuisine
As we stepped into this bustling taverna, the aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats greeted us, while the lively chatter of patrons added to the inviting atmosphere.
Situated on the corner of Lonsdale and Russell Streets, this iconic eatery has been serving up delectable Greek dishes since 1978, earning a well-deserved reputation as a culinary landmark in Melbourne.
On our recent visit, we all went with a famed souvlaki, which cost between $20-22 each served with freshly rolled pita bread. Delicious. Our large bowl of chips was devoured before long, and had the most tasty seasoning on top.
The drinks menu is extensive, with wine by the glass, beer, cider, and ouzo, we each found our preference.
Known for its safe gluten-free dining practices, Stalactites also accommodates vegan, vegetarian, and other dietary requirements.
Related post: 31 Best Gluten-Free Melbourne CBD Lunch Spots
We had a lovely lunch at Melbourne’s iconic Greek restaurant Stalactites. Where I was pleased to see gluten-free options were in abundance.
It was busy, which made us think the food must be good! And we didn’t mind waiting around 20 minutes for our meals. The chips came out sooner, which were very tasty.
The waiter actually got my souvlaki order wrong, I received the lamb instead of chicken. However I decided to eat it anyway, and the meat was very tender and enjoyable. The gluten-free pita was quite good.
– Diane
Seating and service
Reservations are only available for groups of 6 or more, and we recommend arriving early to get a good table. We arrived just after midday and watched all the tables quickly fill up around us.
We were happy to be offered a nice table upstairs beside the window, which had a beautiful view of the street corner below. Upon ordering, our waiter informed us that there would be a wait of 20 minutes or more for our meals. This suited us fine and we appreciated them letting us know.
Seating is comfortable with back support. The space was not uncomfortably noisy for a busy restaurant.
In terms of accessibility, there is a small step at the front door entrance and dining tables available both upstairs and downstairs. A few tables are available outside on the street, too. The toilets are located upstairs making it hard for those with mobility challenges.
Stalactites Restaurant offers dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services, as well as catering for functions and parties.
Tidbits for visiting Stalactites Restaurant
- Download the menu here;
- Menu recommendation: the famous Stalactite souvlaki (cost $20-$22);
- Gluten-free menu clearly marked, with dedicated kitchen practices;
- Other dietary requirements accommodated;
- Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week;
- Dining tables upstairs, downstairs and some outside on the street;
- Comfortable seating with back support;
- Limited wheelchair accessibility; there is a small step at the front entrance and tables outside on the street, too.
- The toilets are located upstairs making it hard for those with mobility challenges.;
- Takeaway and delivery is available;
- Catering menu for groups and functions available;
- Located 600 metres from Melbourne Central station;
- Catch trams 1, 5, or 67, or buses 207, 250, 302, or 905.
Stalactites
177/183 Lonsdale St
Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 9663 3316
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