Textured whites, splashes of blue, and colourful flora-covered corners are lit by big sun-seeking windows in this fresh new Greek restaurant. Agora Greek Cuisine threw open its doors on Friday, met by a steady stream of curious diners and the hustle and bustle of the bp Adelaide Grand Final crowd. If there’s one thing to expect from this new central CBD offering, though, it’s very generous portions.
“Opening this restaurant is truly a dream that has been years in the making,” said co-owner Lahiru Galagamage. “My very first job in the industry was as a chef at a Greek restaurant, and that experience changed everything for me.”
This is what sparked a deep affection for Greek food. “The flavours, the traditions, the simplicity, and the soul behind every dish,” is what make this cuisine special for Lahiru. “Along the way, I also developed a deep appreciation for Greek culture, its warmth, its hospitality, and its celebration of food as a way of bringing people together.”
Lahiru says Agora is “the realisation of a lifelong passion.” Since first cooking with those flavours, it was clear that one day he would create his own Greek restaurant.
The restaurant is the creation of Lahiru Galagamage, Shyam Perera, and Koshila Sandesh. “Each of us brings a different strength to the business,” Lahiru says. “But what unites us is our shared passion for hospitality and delivering memorable experiences for our guests.”
Lahiru takes the role of head chef, with years of experience cooking up Greek cuisine and a self-proclaimed “deep connection to the culinary traditions that inspired this entire venture.” Shyam and Koshila take operations and management roles, with a host of staff “from diverse backgrounds within the hospitality industry.”
In the process of bringing Agora to Rundle Street, the team has conducted a full interior refit, transforming a space that was formerly home to Indian restaurant Taj Tandoor. The new interior feels clean, crisp, and distinctly Greek. Blue on white is the headline, with plants draped down corners and subtle fish details on walls, the food fits the part as it travels from kitchen to table.
“Almost everything inside the restaurant has been redesigned from the ground up,” Lahiru says. “From the interior layout to the colour palette, lighting, furniture, and decor, every detail was intentionally crafted to create an authentic and inviting atmosphere.”
“Our vision was clear from the start: to bring a touch of Santorini to Adelaide. We wanted the space to feel fresh, calming, and unmistakably Greek with whitewashed walls, gentle blues and natural textures. The goal is for guests to feel as though they’ve escaped to a little island taverna the moment they walk through the door. We want Agora to be a place where people slow down, savour good food, connect with each other, and experience the warmth of Greek hospitality.”
The menu has all the hits, with garlic and lemon featuring heavily. To start, think tzatziki, skordalia, tarama dips, among many more, all served alongside wedges of pita. Dolmathes come next, or you can grab lightly fried marinated calamari, or chargrilled octopus, which are also fantastic options. If you’re after a plate that’s piled high (and I mean high), grab yourself a lamb or chicken souvlaki, with marinated meat skewers served atop crispy Greek potatoes with tzatziki, garden salad, and pita.
If a Greek feast with a prime view of Rundle Street appeals, this new restaurant should be very much on your radar. Lahiru says, “We are committed to creating a vibrant, welcoming environment where food, culture, and community meet.”
Agora Greek Cuisine
Where: 242 Rundle St, Adelaide
When: Tuesday to Sunday lunch and dinner
For more info, click here.
