Overview
Finding the perfect BYO spot can be tough — you want an atmosphere that's vibey without being so loud you can't hear your neighbour, delicious food that pairs well with whatever mix of wines people have brought to the table, and preferably nobody throwing food at the next table over (we're looking at you, Canton Café's Friday night crowd).
A panel of judges have been working for months on finding which Auckland restaurant deserves the crown in the first-ever Leftfield Best BYO Awards — and the winner might not be who you assumed.
Greek-Italian eatery El Greco in Campbell's Bay took out the top gong, beating out 11 other restaurants shortlisted to win the title as well as a $5000 small business support package — no doubt welcomed after a savage couple of years for Auckland's struggling hospitality industry.
The lineup of judges for the competition reads like a who's who of Auckland's food scene: Lazy Susan co-founders and food writers Antony Suvalko and Anna King Shahab, restaurateur Sammy Akuthot (Satya) and champion barista and content creator Sam Low.
According to the judges, El Greco — operated by husband-and-wife Kostas and Sarah Grigorakis — impressed due to its sharing-style tapas menu, relaxed vibe and exceptional service. The restaurant has become a real neighbourhood favourite thanks to its meze platters, pizzas, pastas and gyros — it's giving us holiday vibes, even if you've just travelled from the other side of the bridge.
Sarah Grigorakis said in a statement they were "elated" by the win.
"We would like to make special thanks to all those who have voted for us, not least to our valued customers. It means so much to us to win and we can't wait to bring our little piece of the Mediterranean to you all!" she said.
Other finalists included Bali Nights in Grey Lynn, Nishiki in Freeman's Bay, Big Fish Eatery in Pensorse and Try it Out in Ōtāhuhu.
El Greco was awarded a $5000 small business support package for taking out the top gong in the inaugural Leftfield Best BYO Competition. The restaurant can be found at 1/1 The Esplanade in Campbells Bay on Auckland's North Shore.